Capturing the Magic: A Guide to Photographing a Surprise Proposal at McGill's Rose Garden in Downtown Charlotte

Photographing a surprise proposal is one of the most exhilarating experiences a photographer can have. The raw emotions, excitement, and love shared between the couple make for truly unforgettable moments. As a photographer, capturing these moments is a privilege and a responsibility that requires careful planning and execution. I can honestly say this one was one of the most nerve-wracking sessions I've ever done in my years as a photographer. Here are my top tips for a surprise proposal!

1. Prepare for the Moment

A surprise proposal is all about timing, so preparation is crucial. We chatted about everything from John's vision for the proposal, location, and timing. Understanding the layout of the location and the best angles for capturing the moment is definitely key. Keep in mind the lighting conditions, weather, and any obstacles that may interfere with your shots. We had a pretty bad storm on the day of John & Emma's proposal so I came prepared with a clear umbrella so we could take all of the shots we wanted in the rain. 

2. Be Discreet

It's important to remain discreet and blend in with the surroundings to avoid giving away the surprise. This means dressing appropriately and being inconspicuous with your equipment. John had come up with the perfect cover story for why I was taking photos of the 2 of them which was definitely easier than hiding around the corner with a telephoto lens.

3. Capture the Moment

The surprise proposal is all about the emotions, so the priority for me was to let them have that moment and to not try to pose them or get super involved! This was such a precious moment for this sweet couple and I was very aware that I wanted to do my best to make it not feel like a photoshoot. 

As you can see from the photos, Emma said yes and this happy couple left after their session to celebrate their engagement! Congratulations to the future Mr & Mrs Hinson!