How to Plan the Perfect Secret Proposal Photo Shoot

Luckily, some creative people have come up with some clever ways to pull this off. Your first option is to have a paparazzi-style photo shoot, where your photographer will blend in with a crowd and pretend to be a tourist with a camera photographing random sights. This option works perfectly in very popular locations, such as city centers.

Proposal photoshoot by Sami, Localgrapher in Crete

Another option is to arrange a regular photo shoot without letting your significant other know that you will propose. This option is perfect for people who want to propose in a more private setting.

Proposal photoshoot by Yan, Localgrapher in Santorini

The third and final option isn’t highly recommended since the others work great, but your photographer can hide in a bush or behind something in order to capture the surprise in a really intimate setting.

Proposal photoshoot by Alenka, Localgrapher in Tulum

We highly recommend that you clarify the exact spot of the proposal with a print screen from Google street view, so there is no confusion.

Proposal photoshoot by Anton, Localgrapher in Dubai

After the location is all decided, you will want to make sure that the photographer knows the exact time you plan to propose. You will need to work with your proposal photographer and listen to his or her suggestions, so you can make sure that you get the best lighting for your photos. Most photographers will suggest you propose around sunset for the best lighting, which is perfect since that’s already such a romantic setting.

Proposal photoshoot by Michael, Localgrapher in Maspalomas

Lastly, you will want to make sure the photographer has seen photos of you and your significant other, so he or she will be able to recognize you. It will be helpful if you also let him or her know what you will be wearing. If you are able to keep it a secret, you should have a way to communicate with the photographer on that day, so you can let them know what you will be wearing and if everything is going according to the plan.

Tip! If you are booking Localgrapher, you will receive your photographer’s details in advance. That way, you can contact them anytime you need to!

Proposal photoshoot by Petra, Localgrapher in Dubai

You should choose an iconic location or a place that has a special meaning for you. For example, this could be the place where you first met, shared your first kiss, or even your first vacation together.

As we mentioned before, you will want to make sure that you and your photographer are on the same page and know exactly where the proposal will happen. The sooner you decide this, the sooner your proposal photographer will be able to help you with details, such as where he or she will be and the direction you should be facing in the moment of the proposal.

Proposal photoshoot by Sophia, Localgrapher in Munich

Since this is such an important moment in your lives, you will want to make sure that you and your loved one are both dressed nicely. You will want to make sure your appearances are neat, and you will want to avoid wearing a lot of colors or clothing that has random advertisements or huge signs.

For more tips, read this related blog post: How to Plan the Perfect Couple Photo Shoot.

It might be difficult for you to tell your loved one how to dress and keep the proposal a secret, but we can assure you that he or she will appreciate it when the photographer is revealed. In order not to give away the surprise, we recommend that you tell your significant other that you are going to a concert, theatre, or some nice dinner.

Proposal photoshoot by Diego, Localgrapher at Lake Como

When you get down on one knee, don’t rush it. Instead, stay in that position a little longer, so that your loved one can fully soak it all in. This also gives the photographer more opportunity to get the perfect shot.

Proposal photoshoot by Eny, Localgrapher in Paris

It should go without saying that you should only have the ring in your hands. You won’t want to be holding on to your phone or a camera when you are getting down on one knee. These things could get in the way and cause you to fumble. They also won’t look good in the photos.

The best photos would be of you holding the ring or the ring box. You will also want to make sure you don’t have your wallet or phone in your trouser pockets because that doesn’t photograph well, especially when you are down on one knee. Your proposal photos will also look better if you can avoid holding bags or backpacks, so the main focus is on you, your loved one, and the ring.

Proposal photoshoot by Giuseppe & Steven, Localgraphers in Capri

Hopefully, it shouldn’t be hard to keep your focus on your loved one, but you may be tempted to look at the photographer. You should avoid this as best as you can, so you don’t ruin the magical moment or the organicness of the photos. Instead, you should enjoy this once in a lifetime moment by hugging, kissing, and holding each other. You can always introduce yourself to the photographer later!

Proposal photoshoot by Anna, Localgrapher in Phuket

After the proposal, you can finally introduce the photographer to your fiancé and let them in on the wonderful secret you’ve been keeping. Once he or she knows about the photographer, you can start right into an engagement photo shoot. These photos are perfect for save-the-dates or wedding invitations. During this time, you will want to make sure you get a shot of the stunning ring.

Proposal photoshoot by Diego, Localgrapher in Lake Como

You should also have something romantic planned out for after the proposal. For example, you might want to make a reservation to a romantic restaurant for an incredible dinner and champagne.

Proposal photoshoot by Antonio, Localgrapher on the Amalfi Coast