Planning a Surprise Proposal with a Professional Photographer

Mercedez knew they would be taking couple portraits but she didn’t suspect to see Julien down on one knee! Here’s how Julien planned this surprise proposal photo shoot without her getting suspicious:

Julien and Mercedez had been dating for years now and had been talking about getting their portraits done because they didn't have many photos together. Julien decided it would be the perfect opportunity to propose and have professional photos taken of the moment. She knew she was taking photos so we were able to include her in some of the planning. They also had a trip coming up, to Mexico City, which helped divert her thoughts as to when Julien would propose. He knew he wanted to include murals as this is something they love to explore when traveling so it was unique to their relationship. There was a lot of location scouting involved to make sure we could find the best time to avoid crowds.

First stop was the “I AM LOVE” mural. I got here a little early to try and keep people from parking in front of the mural. That went pretty smoothly, it was a big lot so there was plenty of other spaces to park at and the one person that parked in front of the mural saw that I was taking photos and voluntarily moved her car! Sometimes strangers can be so nice and considerate. :)

The next stop was another love mural where the proposal was suppose to take place but unfortunately there was too many cars parked in front and we had to put our second plan into action. The roof top of The Glassell School of Art! No one in sight, just Julien pouring his heart out to Mercedez.

She was so surprised! I loved how she kept looking at me in disbelief of what was happening!

SHE SAID YES!

Next stop! The Menil Collection, for a touch of greenery that Mercedez requested for part of the session.

This swing photo below is one of my favorites because I feel like it portrays their personalities so perfectly! I really enjoyed getting to know these two!

Over all, this was a relaxed proposal for me as the photographer and for Julien. I think it’s all about the way you want to surprise your lover. Is it by surprising them with professional photos? Surprising them with you being included in the session? Or surprising them with the proposal itself, there’s so many ways to ask.

Thank you so much Julien and Mercedez for letting me capture this moment!