capturing the perfect boston proposal [a photographer’s guide]:

Are you planning to pop the big question to your partner? If so, you're likely envisioning that magical moment when you ask them to spend forever with you. But in the flurry of emotions and excitement, don't forget about one crucial element: capturing the proposal beautifully through photographs.

As a professional photographer who has had the privilege of documenting numerous surprise proposals, I understand the importance of meticulous planning. The proposer often faces the daunting task of orchestrating the perfect scenario, ensuring their partner is dressed impeccably and positioned in the right spot at the right time. This is where my expertise comes in.

In this blog post, I'm excited to share insider tips, tricks, and location knowledge that can help you execute a flawless proposal and ensure stunning photographic memories that will last a lifetime.

This session was meticulously planned by myself and my partner, Brianna Graca, of the New England Collective of Photographers (NECP). The NECP was founded with the intention of fostering connections within the local photography community, and this event, titled 'The Boston Crawl', marks our second-ever endeavor.

During 'The Boston Crawl', which took place in the picturesque Beacon Hill area of Boston, MA, we organized a content crawl at several spots within one location. The session featured a real couple, Sophie & Isaac, who graciously agreed to participate in a mock proposal and engagement photoshoot. The intimate group of 7 photographers captured the magic of the moment with skill and enthusiasm.

It's important to note that while this session was planned with models, it reflects the type of work I have done with many real couples to capture their actual proposals. The purpose of this event was to showcase our collective talent, strengthen community bonds, and provide valuable learning experiences for all involved.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we hope you enjoy the beautiful photographs captured during 'The Boston Crawl'.

To ensure that the couple arrives at the designated location dressed to impress without raising any suspicions, I employ a clever tactic: a "model call" posted on social media. The callout, enticing potential models with the promise of a sunrise photoshoot in Boston and free photos in return for their time, was strategically crafted to catch the attention of our target audience.

The proposer “stumbles upon” the post and enthusiastically shares it with their partner, exclaiming, "LET'S DO IT!" Little does the partner know that this seemingly spontaneous decision is all part of an elaborate plan orchestrated by their significant other.

This ingenious approach provides us with the perfect opportunity to ensure that the couple is styled impeccably, with hair and makeup flawlessly done. By presenting the photoshoot as a fun and exciting opportunity, we’re able to seamlessly guide the couple to our chosen location without arousing any suspicion, setting the stage for the unforgettable proposal to come.

We began our journey at the Charles River Esplanade at the break of dawn. The serene beauty of the riverside greeted us with open arms as the flowers proudly displayed their vibrant hues.

Our first stop led us to an empty dock nestled along the river, where we indulged in playful moments of champagne popping, capturing the joy and excitement of the morning.

With spirits lifted and hearts full, we ventured across Beacon Street to the iconic Boston Public Garden. As we strolled amidst the magnolia trees, bathed in the soft, golden light of the morning sun, we were enveloped in a dreamlike atmosphere.

At the Gardens, the duck ponds and the graceful willow trees provided the perfect backdrop for our couple's tender moments, as they embraced each other amidst the serenity of the garden. As we made our way onto the bridge, anticipation hung in the air, culminating in our first mock proposal. Using my favorite "pop the question" prompt, we immortalized the tender exchange between our couple, capturing the raw emotion and unbridled joy of the moment.

Have the couple stand back to back, clasping hands, and each look at the camera with a bright smile.
Instruct the couple to look straight ahead, then slowly walk away from one another, gently letting go of their hands.
After a few steps tell them to stop, and to keep looking straight ahead (not at the camera). This is where the proposer will turn and drop to one knee with that ring front and center.
Instruct the unsuspecting partner to turn around… much to their surprise!

The important part about this pose is that you have to carefully discuss it with the proposer ahead of time.

With hearts soaring and spirits ablaze, we seamlessly transitioned into capturing engagement photos brimming with unadulterated joy and boundless love. Every frame radiated with the unmistakable glow of newfound commitment and shared dreams.

From the enchanting Boston Public Garden, our journey continued to the iconic Acorn St. in Beacon Hill. Renowned as the most photographed street in the nation, Acorn St. greeted us with its cobblestone pathways and historic brownstones, providing a charming backdrop for our next chapter.

Here, amidst the timeless beauty of Acorn St., we seized the opportunity to capture sweet and intimate portraits, each frame brimming with the genuine affection and tender connection shared by our couple.

It's important to note that Acorn St. is a private way, steeped in the rich history of its residents and the surrounding neighborhood. Throughout our time here, we remained steadfast in our commitment to respect, speaking in hushed tones and sharing the space graciously with fellow photographers. In doing so, we honored the sanctity of this historic locale while creating lasting memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

Thank you to my NECP partner Brianna Graca for planning this event with me. Thank you to all of the attendees for coming along and offering your unique perspectives and company. Thank you Sophie & Isaac for being amazing!

@n.e_collective | @dampolophotography | @briannagracaweddings| @sophiebohenko