The beginning of your forever…
A once-in-a-lifetime moment, planned with intention.
My Approach
My approach to proposals is thoughtful, collaborative, and rooted in storytelling. I work closely with you to plan a moment that feels natural and deeply personal, from scouting the perfect location to refining the smallest details. The result is imagery that not only documents the moment, but preserves how it felt.
How to Plan the Best Proposal (Tips from a Photographer)
Planning a proposal is one of the most meaningful moments you’ll ever create — and it deserves thoughtful intention, beautiful images, and memories you can relive forever.
It is truly the beginning of a very important chapter, and you want to lean into that value with your choices and presence!
As a photographer who’s passionate about capturing real connection and timeless emotion, I’ve put together this guide to help you plan a proposal that feels natural and meaningful (THE GARDEN PHOTO CO.)
Read more below on my thoughts on proposals based on those I’ve been grateful to be a part of
1. Start With What Matters Most: Your Story
Before you decide on locations, light, or props, take a moment to reflect on your relationship — where you’ve been, what you love most about your partner, and the kind of vibe you want for your proposal.
💡 Think about:
Where did you meet?
What are your favorite shared activities?
Are you both adventure-seekers, romantics, or homebodies?
How you start, will help to shape the tone and atmosphere in a way that feels attuned to your relationship.
With The Garden Photo Co.:I love a good love story, and you should see all the romantic comedies I’ve watched (and re-watched). This has also grown to be one of my favorite parts of the process - making sure that your story is evident and rooted in the whole moment.
2. Choose a Meaningful & Beautiful Location
The location you pick won’t just be the backdrop for pictures — it’s part of the memory you’re creating.
📍 Great location ideas:
A botanical garden or scenic overlook
A place you both love to hike or picnic
Where you had your “first date”
A hidden gem that feels like your own secret world
When I work with a client planning a surprise proposal, I’m deeply involved from the start—offering thoughtful suggestions, scouting meaningful locations, and researching the best spots to ensure everything feels intentional. I often joke that I step into the role of a trusted best friend, helping plan the little details behind the scenes so the moment unfolds naturally and without a hiccup.
With The Garden Photo Co.: For my peeps reading who are going to propose soon - i'm talking screenshots of maps, timed out walk times, cardinal directions and clear timelines so you feel as prepped as possible that I will be there for y’alls moment.
3. Timing Is Everything
For photos that feel dreamy and flattering, think about when you plan to propose.
📅 Recommended:
Golden hour — shortly after sunrise or before sunset
Weekday mornings if it’s a public place
Weather that enhances your mood — soft clouds can be a photographer’s best friend
With The Garden Photo Co.: This is where a photographer is an asset! We are used to planning timelines meticulously. I always help to make sure my client who is proposing feels as supported as possible with a clear timeline. But if things run late, always being willing to roll with it :)
I helped with the proposal above in terms of the timeframe for this waterfall I frequented in the southern TN area! It gave off the perfect soft light this past winter for this couple’s special moment!
4. Craft a Believable Cover Story
If your proposal is a surprise, having a simple, believable reason to be at the location is key — especially if a photographer will be there.
🎭 Good cover stories include:
A “casual photo session” for fun or for a gift (birthday, Christmas, Valentines)
A date night walk before dinner
Exploring a new place together
With The Garden Photo Co.: Quote from a recent proposal “I didn't even know she was a photographer! I thought she was just vibing here after a hike”. I will have to say, I have mastered the art of not being noticed. Weddings train you for this as you want real moments to arrive naturally so you are always in the background and never really noticed but always camera ready! I can blend right into the setting and will bring a friend with if necessary to make it seem more natural.
5. Coordinate With Your Photographer
This is where photography becomes part of your plan, not just an add-on.
💬 Talk about:
Where the photographer will hide
How you’ll signal the moment
What style of images you want (candid, cinematic, classic)
Whether you want photos during or after the proposal
What your backup plan is for weather, or if there is a hiccup with accessing the first location
Send a photo of yourselves as the client, so your photographer knows what you look like
With The Garden Photo Co.: As I’ve already mentioned I will want to make sure you feel as supported as possible as the person proposing. I’m a bit of a over communicator so this one will be easy
Plan something thoughtful, and intentional
〰️
Plan something thoughtful, and intentional 〰️
6. Dress for What You Want the Photos to Look Like
Clothing matters in photos. You don’t have to be “formal,” but coordinated, intentional outfits elevate the images.
✨ Style tips:
Choose solid, complementary colors
Avoid logos, and patterns can work depending on the scenery. Avoid both you and your partner in patterns is my recommendation!
Layers and textures look great on camera
Consider not wearing a ball cap for the knee down moment
Bring shoes you’re comfortable walking in
Take things out of your pockets before the moment
With The Garden Photo Co.: Earthy tones often work well with my editing! I can definitely offer more direction here if desired, but we ultimately want you comfortable as well. This is where a “quick stop or walk” before a fancy dinner can really be a good move!
Look above where these two went by an island they frequently visit before dinner in Florida. She was super surprised by the thoughtful set up, and the hidden note in the shell. Intentional choices, that still feel like you is the balance to shoot for!
7. Add Personal Touches That Reflect You
What makes your relationship unique should show up in the moment.
💕 Ideas:
A handwritten note or letter
A song that’s meaningful to you both
Her favorite flowers or champagne
Something symbolic of your journey together
With The Garden Photo Co.: These small details help the photos tell your story, not just a pretty picture. I can grab the flowers, and the speaker if need be!
8. Plan for a Celebration Afterwards
Whether it’s champagne for two, a dinner reservation, or a surprise party with friends and family, think about how you want to celebrate the moment while including your circle of people.
📸 Pro tip: Having a little time after the proposal for photos together lets you:
Catch your authentic reactions
Get ring detail shots
Capture the joy you both feel right after “yes”
With The Garden Photo Co.: I always offer to do a small session following the proposal moment! This can be an easy 5 minutes up to a 30 min session!
