So you’ve decided to propose, congratulations! Maybe you’ve already selected your ring and have a general idea of where you want to do it.

I recently captured a surprise proposal session at Quarry Lake Park in Canmore, Alberta. In this blog post, I will walk you through the process of hiring a surprise proposal photographer and what you can expect while working with me. Don’t worry, not all my tricks will be revealed (just in case ;)) but it may ease your mind in deciding on if you should hire a surprise proposal photographer in the first place.

What is the difference between surprise proposal photos and engagement photos?

The biggest difference between surprise proposal photos and engagement photos is that the proposal photos capture the candid moment of the proposal itself, i.e. you going down on one knee and your partner’s reaction.

Depending on your photographer, you may also do a few couple portraits afterwards. Although typically, proposal sessions are typically no longer than 45 minutes, whereas engagement sessions can range from 45 minutes-2 hours.

Should I hire a surprise proposal photographer?

This answer will vary for you. Here is a quick list of pros and cons to hiring a surprise proposal photographer:

Pros to hiring a surprise proposal photographer

The biggest reason to hire a surprise proposal photographer is to be able to look back at your partner’s reaction when you propose and cherish the beautiful memory. Just like with your wedding, a proposal is something you do only once, so it is genuinely a moment to be treasured.
You can get help with planning the logistics of the proposal itself. Chances are, you haven’t done a proposal before so you have NO idea where to even begin with the planning. By hiring a surprise proposal planner or photographer, you will have someone who has experience to guide you!
Your family and friends may be curious as to how you proposed and what your partner’s reaction was - and so by having a photographer present, you will have photos to share!
If your partner says yes (which I hope they will!!), you can take some couple portraits together immediately. For many couples, it’ll be your first time working with a professional photographer, so it’s nice to start off your engagement announcement with beautiful photographs!

Cons to hiring a surprise proposal photographer

It may be an additional expense. Many wedding photographers include engagement sessions in their packages and during that time you will get photos together and of the ring.
It cannot be spontaneous. If you are hiring a photographer, you typically have a set date, time and location for approximately when you will propose. If you are someone who doesn’t like planning or wants to be more spontaneous with the proposal, this can be a disadvantage.
You may be short on time and so planning a proposal with another person (your photographer) may be stressful. If you’re on a trip or it’s a particularly busy season for you, tacking on another task of working with your photographer in a discreet way may be overwhelming.

When should I hire a surprise proposal photographer? How far in advance do I need to book?

Professional photographers tend to book weeks and months in advanced - so the earlier you have a date in mind, the better! I have personally gotten proposal session requests as early as the week before but I definitely recommend reaching out at least a month in advanced to be safe. Most photographers prefer you have a date in mind already but if you are flexible, you will have a better chance working with a photographer you like!

For the proposal photos you see here in Canmore, Alberta. T reached out to be exactly three weeks before the day he wanted to propose. This is typically a short time frame of notice, but because it was winter (late March), it was slow season and I had weekend availability. As a wedding photographer, I typically reserve weekends for weddings, so if you’re hiring a wedding photographer in the summer months, you will likely be limited on their availability.

How do I choose a photographer for a proposal?

Similar to a wedding, your proposal is a once in a lifetime moment and because of that, you would want to hire a photographer that specializes in couples, engagements, and weddings. If they have experience with doing proposals, you’ll have an easier and stress-free time while planning alongside them.

And obviously, you should love their photography and editing style as well! Remembering to consider your partner’s taste in photography is also beneficial!

How does a proposal photographer help me plan the proposal?

This varies with the photographer and your vision of the proposal but as a Calgary, Canmore, and Banff proposal photographer, I send a questionnaire to get a better idea of your relationship and tailor everything to you.

With the questionnaire, we’ll narrow down the location (if you haven’t chosen yet), the time of day, and date.

There are different ways to approach a surprise proposal and so I list out these different options in the questionnaire for you to think over and choose. For secrecy sake (@ curious partners who are waiting for a proposal to happen), I won’t list them off here but know that because I’ve shot proposals before, I can help with the logistics!

If you’re travelling to Banff and are hoping to propose with the mountain scenery, I can also recommend local activities and restaurants to help make your trip more exciting!

Surprise Proposal Tips and Tricks (from a proposal photographer!)

To end off this blog post, here are some tips and tricks for your surprise proposal!

Consider if your partner is someone who would like an audience during the proposal or if they would prefer to have a more intimate moment. This may help narrow down the locations of the proposal itself. Banff National Park is a perfect backdrop for more intimate proposals and if you hire me as your proposal photographer, I know all the good spots!
Try to get your partner to wear something nice if you are getting photos taken. You can do this by making a reservation for a dinner and using this as an excuse to dress up.
Practice going down on one knee to avoid fumbling!
Practice what you’re going to say and don’t be afraid to get emotional!
That being said, don’t be afraid to go with the flow of the moment. No matter what curveball is thrown at you, try to relax and be flexible. You got this!

That wraps up how to hire a surprise proposal photographer! If you are planning your proposal in Calgary or Banff, Canada, feel free to reach out to have an experienced proposal photographer help you make your vision come to life!