A Surprise Proposal on the Shores of Lake Michigan
There’s something magical about photographing a proposal. Being part of a moment that propels a couple into the next chapter of their story together is something I’ll never take for granted. It’s an amazing moment to capture those fleeting seconds when one question changes everything. Recently, I had the joy of helping plan and photograph a surprise proposal on the breathtaking shores of Lake Michigan, and it’s a session I’ll never forget.
When my client first reached out, he knew exactly where he wanted to propose. It was somewhere that help a special meaning to them as a couple. Somewhere beautiful, intimate, and natural. There is a beautiful beach area on Lake Michigan they would go to often, take walks and sit on the sand dunes to watch the sunset .Together, we planned every detail to make it perfect, without his soon-to-be fiancée suspecting a thing. From choosing the exact spot on the beach to coordinating timing and cues, my goal was to make the moment effortless for him so he could focus on what truly mattered: asking the love of his life to marry him.
The evening of the proposal couldn’t have been more perfect. It was the perfect summer evening a warm sun slowly starting to set. The sun was starting to dip low, painting the sky in warm golds and soft pinks as gentle waves rolled in. She thought they were simply having a photo session on the beach—but when she turned and found him on one knee, everything seemed to pause. The look on her face said it all: pure joy and love.
After the big “yes,” we spent time capturing their first photos as an engaged couple. We explored the beach and the nearby sand dunes, laughing, celebrating, and letting the emotions unfold naturally. The result was a beautiful mix of candid emotion and romantic portraits that truly told the story of the moment.
Why I Love Photographing Surprise Proposals
As a Wisconsin engagement and proposal photographer, these sessions are some of my favorites to photograph. Proposal sessions are something special; not just because they’re romantic, but because they’re real. The nerves, the excitement, the happy tears, all of it makes for such raw and heartfelt images. A moment we want to return to again and again.
I also know how much planning and pressure can come with pulling off a surprise like this, which is why I make it my mission to help every step of the way. From location scouting and timing the light to secretly coordinating signals, I ensure everything runs smoothly so you can stay calm, confident, and fully present.
Every surprise proposal is a little different because every couple is different. These sessions aren’t a one size fits all. It’s important to me that I capture your story, who you are as a couple. That means that keeping the surprise and still coordinating to make sure everything works seamlessly can look different for each couple.
Whether it’s a secluded beach, a mountaintop overlook, or your favorite park, I love helping clients create a proposal that feels authentic to their relationship, and capturing every emotion as it unfolds.
The Value of Capturing the Moment
These moments become part of your story, the kind you’ll relive again and again through your photos. Having professional images of your proposal allows you to share that memory with friends and family, frame it in your home, and always remember the start of your next chapter together.
If you’re dreaming of a surprise proposal, know that you don’t have to plan it alone. I’ll help guide you through every step, from the logistics to the perfect way to celebrate after the “yes.”
The amazing thing about how I structure my proposal sessions is that we have the opportunity to capture engagement style photos right after the moment. My clients love having these photos having on their walls and in an album to relive the moment and share with family and friends. These photos are also perfect for save the dates, wedding guest books, and wedding decorations!
Moments like this deserve to be remembered beautifully, they’re worth investing in.
