So you want to hire a proposal photographer to capture the moment, but also hoping to keep it a surprise for your partner? You’re in the right place.

What’s the best way to hire a surprise proposal photographer?

Option #1: Hire a photographer to go “undercover”.

Of course, it’s true. Us photographers will hide in the bushes, disguise ourselves in the crowd, or act as just another passerby near the spot where you plan to ask a question.

For this surprise proposal at Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, I arrived early, posted up a on the shore of the lake with my friend, and pretended to have a picnic. When he was in position and ready to ask the question, I pulled my camera out from under the picnic blanket and was ready to document it.

With the help of the fishing guide, and a little communication on how to make this as epic and unforgettable as possible, this whole experience went smoothly and effortlessly.

Pros of hiring a photographer to be at the right place at the right time:

• This method is best for partners looking to keep the proposal a total surprise
• You can turn the photos into a post-engagement session and capture the true shock and peak joy of the moment

Cons of hiring a photographer to be at the right place at the right time:

• Definitely higher stakes for the photographer since it’s so difficult to communicate right before the surprise
• This method can take a little more planning and direction to go off unhitched. No pun intended.

Option #2: Hire a photographer for a couples session of you and your partner.

Of course the benefit of this method is that your partner will go into the experience knowing it’s a photography session. You and your photographer will likely come up with a cue (like a specific phrase or prompt) that indicates you’re ready to ask the question. You’ll be ready and you’ll know your photographer is ready too.

Pros to proposing during a couples photography session:

• Your partner is looking exactly how they want to look for photos since these photos were planned
• You know everyone is in the correct place at the exact time
• It’s certainly easier to communicate if necessary

Cons to proposing during a couples photography session:

• For some, this method could feel more staged and “set up” in the moment
• If you’re not one to request a photography session with your partner, they could become a little suspicious, therefore making a true surprise a little more difficult to pull off.

Surprise marriage proposal ideas

Here are some creative ways to ask the question!

• Pop the question while on a scenic hike
• Return to a meaningful location together
• Redo a first (or favorite!) date
• Get creative yourself, or collaborate with stylists and planners
• Check something off your bucket list like hiking to the top of a mountain peak
• Charter a private boat and sail out on a mountain lake at sunset
• Go to a favorite park for sunrise
• Have a romantic surprise pop-up picnic somewhere with a view
• Stay at a luxury resort, a unique Airbnb, or romantic B&B
• Go horseback riding, wine tasting— something fun or meaningful to you!
• Ask the question while you’re cozied up on the sofa

However you ask, just make sure it feels so you.

Things to consider for your surprise proposal photos

Lighting + background

Your proposal photographer will help you with this ahead of time to ensure you have the very best lighting, background, and positioning when you pop the question.

The engagement portraits after the “yes!”

While you have a professional photographer there, this is a great opportunity to have a little engagement session. Document the pure excitement, and have these memories as art forever. These memories will make for a great photo album, and wonderful photos to frame and showcase at your wedding, too.

What to wear to your proposal + engagement photos

It’s ideal if you can plan ahead to make sure your partner is looking and feeling their best.

Consider bringing additional outfits for the portrait session following the proposal. Select coordinating colors, good layers, and a few backup garments. Pick out your partner’s favorite items—something you see them wear often, or that you know they feel great in!

Family + friends arriving during or after the proposal

To add to the surprise, consider an additional inviting family + friends to join you in the post engagement celebrations.

Engagement celebrations

Don’t forget to bring along your favorite champagne or sparkling water to pop! This always makes for a great photo opportunity too.

Looking for an outside of the box idea? Consider reserving a private dining experience, hiring a private chef, or finding a local pop-up picnic company. This is a sure way to help make this day feel like it’s not just any other day.

Colorado surprise proposal photographer

Hi, I’m Amber! Estes Park, Colorado based photographer who specializes in couples photos, elopements, and micro weddings. Not only will I be there to help you pull off a brilliant proposal, but I will beautifully document every emotion too. You can often find me in Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park, Colorado, but Utah, Arizona, and destinations are the U.S. are on the travel schedule ever year as well.

Want to work together? Get started by filling out the inquiry form below.