I wrote a post for men’s eyes only, about HOW to propose. This post is intended for the photographers that are asked to record a proposal (professional or otherwise).

When it comes to proposals, there is definitely a right way and wrong way to approach it. Here are some tips to photograph proposals:

1. The number one goal is to make the bride feel special.

The only reason to be there for the proposal is to help the bride feel amazing and loved. Make sure the focus is ON the bride to be and not on you, any friend who are hiding with you. Instruct those who are also there not to yell out until the groom tell his fiancé that there are more people there to celebrate.

2. Scout out the location before!

I almost always go to the location prior to the proposal to walk around with the groom before the actual day. I offer advice about which way they should stand so I can get the best picture of him in his knee but past that, I take the groom’s lead.

3. Use a long lens.

It’s best to be hidden somewhere with a telephoto lens that will help you get a great picture without being a distraction from the proposal. I use a Tamron 70-200 2.8 and a monopod.

4. Be prepared to wait a little while.

Most grooms don’t know how to time proposals super well so count on staying longer than they might think. For me, I love doing it so I always block off around an hour per proposal.

5. Take enough picture for Instagram and then be done!

Resist the urge to turn it into an engagement session after the proposal is over. The couple only needs a few for announcing on social media and for the scrapbook. Once the groom acknowledges me, I emerge out of hiding, grab a nice traditional portrait with the ring, a few fun ones of the ring being displayed, one with friend and family who are there and lastly I recreate the proposal of the angle wasn’t good enough.

6. Edit and deliver ASAP!

After they have called their parents of loved ones, they will be itching to announce their proposal on social media! Deliver them an online gallery within a few hours at the latest!