Flashback: Photographing My First Proposal
I photographed my first proposal in March 2024. When Kathereen reached out to me to photograph her brother, Ricky, proposing to his girlfriend, Erin, I was ecstatic. I had photographed engagement sessions before, but never a proposal. Of course I was transparent about it being my first time, and I am grateful they took a chance on me. Ricky and Erin live in California and were visiting for a few day to visit family. All communication went through Kathereen (the sister). Initially, the plan was for the proposal to be at Kraft Azalea Garden. However, in case you didn’t know, it is a very busy and popular garden, and Ricky wanted something more private. So back to the drawing board…. Our next choice was Long Lake Park in Oviedo, Florida! With a location in mind, Kathereen and her dad planned the details, which included ordering 60 sunflowers and printing out images from their relationship for Erin to see when walking down to the pathway.
We got there extra early to prepare and set the scene. We marked our spots to capture specific moments. Then we hid in the bushes waiting for the moment she would walk down the sidewalk towards her future.
Because this was my first time photographing a proposal, I did extra research. It was brought to my attention that the person proposing is usually only on their knee for about 10 seconds. The pressure was on! It reminded me of wedding days where you get only one quick moment to capture the first kiss. And I just want to say… I perform well under pressure!
After capturing THE moment, I knew my job was only just starting. The emotions being expressed; the surprise, joy, love, excitement, disbelief, being entirely overcome, all needed to be captured to truly capture the moment.
For the rest of the time I was booked, I took engagement style images, with a little extra attention on Erin’s new engagement ring! The excitement of proposing/being proposed to really primed the couple to be extra affectionate which made my job easy. I always love it when my couples are connecting with each other. Their love radiates through the images.
