Planning starts before the wedding

When people think of wedding photography, they often imagine the big day itself—the dress, the vows, the dancing. But for me, one of the most magical parts of the journey happens before the wedding even begins: the surprise engagement. These moments are raw, emotional, and completely unrepeatable. I have less than ten minutes to capture a once-in-a-lifetime moment without being seen, without giving away the secret, and without missing a single beat. The pressure? High. But the results? Absolutely worth it.

As soon as the proposal is done, I head straight home and dive into editing. I know you’ll want to share your joy with the world as soon as possible, and I want to make sure your announcement comes with a stunning, professional image that does your love story justice. There’s something incredibly special about watching a couple’s journey unfold in front of my lens—from “Will you?” to “I do.” It gives me butterflies every single time.

So, how do I make it all happen—and how can I help you do the same?

The short answer? Planning. Thoughtful, detailed, and heartfelt planning.

By the time you reach out to me, you’ve already done some of the heavy lifting. You’ve figured out their ring size, found the perfect ring, and chosen a general time of year to propose. That’s huge! From there, it’s my turn to step in and help bring the moment to life.

When you message me, I don’t just ask for a date and location. I want to know your story. How did you meet? What do you love most about each other? Do you have a favorite memory, spot, or inside joke? I soak it all in because it helps me craft a moment that’s not just photogenic, but meaningful. These personal details guide me toward choosing the perfect spot for the big question.

Choosing the Right Location

Speaking of spots—location can be one of the trickiest parts of planning a proposal, but don’t worry, I’ve got a few tried-and-true favorites (especially in Milwaukee!).

Whether you’re dreaming of the skyline in the background, a peaceful lakeside moment, or a full romantic setup with a picnic, I’ve seen it all. Some clients want something bold and scenic, others go for intimate and tucked-away. No matter the vibe, every location becomes the right location with a little planning and the right angle. And that’s my specialty.

I’ll help you think about lighting, direction, where to stand, and how to naturally guide your partner to the perfect spot—all while keeping everything a surprise.

The Waiting Game

Once the date and location are set, the hardest part begins: the wait.

I know how nerve-wracking it can be. I've had clients pick dates based on anniversaries, family visits, holidays, or just a random day that felt right. My advice? Pick a date that means something to you both—but don’t wait too long. The longer the wait, the harder it is to keep the secret!

As your date approaches, I’ll check in with you—especially if we’re shooting outdoors. I’ll confirm the weather, lighting conditions, and make sure you’re feeling confident and excited.

The Big Day

The day of the proposal, I show up early (because let’s be real—I’m just as nervous as you are!). I bring my long lens so I can keep my distance and remain discreet, and I dress casually to blend in with the environment. You might see me taking photos of the scenery, birds, or pretending to be a tourist—it’s all part of the act.

Then, once you're in place, it’s all on you. Take a breath, say your speech, drop to one knee, and let the magic unfold. My camera is already snapping away, capturing every genuine moment, every tear, every smile. You focus on the love—I’ll handle the Photos.

And once the “YES!” rings out, I’ll be the first to walk over and say "congratulations!" and hype up your jewelry choice.

Final Thoughts

Your love story is unique. It deserves to be told in a way that’s just as special. Surprise engagements are more than a shoot—they’re the start of a beautiful new chapter, and I feel so honored every time I get to help capture that.

If you’re planning to pop the question and want someone to capture the moment with heart, professionalism, and a few secret-agent photography skills—I'm your person.

Let’s plan something unforgettable. 💍📸