Photographing proposals has quickly become one of my favorite things to do. The nerves, the planning, the secrecy, the pure joy when they say yes—it’s all just... magic.
Mike’s proposal to Jenna at Elizabeth Park was one for the books, and I wanted to share a behind-the-scenes look at how we pulled it all off—because if you’re thinking about proposing (or helping someone plan one!), this is exactly the kind of experience I love helping create.
The First Message (Kind Of)
This proposal actually started with Jenna’s sister, who found me on Instagram after seeing another engagement session I’d done at Elizabeth Park in West Hartford. She reached out and connected me with Mike, and from there, the planning began.
He and I hopped into planning mode, figuring out where and how it would happen—and then we met the day before to walk the park together, pick the perfect spot, and nail down the timing. I was already excited, but once we walked the location and talked through the moment, I just knew it was going to be something special.
The Day Of: My Heart Was Racing
I got there 45 minutes early (because of course), scouted my exact spot, and checked my camera settings...probably a million times. I brought my mom with me—partly to make us look like we were just regular people enjoying the gardens, but mostly for moral support and to help me keep people from walking into the shot. She also doubled as a bag holder for their things once the photos began.
Mike and Jenna live out of state and had dinner plans with friends and family afterward, so they were already dressed up and looking their best. I was so proud of Mike for thinking through the little things: he coordinated his outfit with Jenna’s dress, made sure she didn’t have a purse or hair ties on her wrist, and kept everything feeling casual and fun.
The Moment Itself
As they approached, Mike casually asked me to take a photo of the two of them on his phone (I was pretending to be just another park-goer). I did—though I was 100% shaking—and then offered, “Hey, I can take a couple on my camera too and send them to you if you’d like!”
I barely had time to slip his phone into my pocket before he dropped to one knee—and then it happened. Her reaction was priceless. Shock, laughter, tears, a big YES.
After the Yes
We wandered around the park afterward, soaking in the moment and grabbing a few newly-engaged portraits while the adrenaline was still high. The light was perfect. The flowers were blooming. The smiles were unstoppable.
I sent them a sneak peek that night (because how could I not?) and they got to relive the moment all over again at dinner with their loved ones.
Thinking About Proposing?
If you’re planning to pop the question and want it captured in a way that feels real, thoughtful, and stress-free, I’d love to help make it happen.
I’ll help you choose the perfect location, walk through timing and outfit tips, and even hide in a bush if I have to (seriously, I’ve done it). Whether you're local or planning something from out of town, I’ll make sure your moment is documented beautifully—without giving the surprise away.
Let’s make your proposal unforgettable.
Shoot me an email (beerosephoto@gmail.com) and tell me what you’re dreaming up. I’ll help with the rest.
