A Fall Engagement Session Surprise

Capture Location: Alberta Beach, Alberta

Capturing love stories is always a joy, but sometimes, those stories come with unexpected moments that make the experience unforgettable. I had the privilege of photographing a couples session that turned into a beautiful surprise proposal. The groom-to-be contacted me secretly, hoping to create a magical moment without his fiancé suspecting a thing. What made this even more special was the involvement of their adorable little dogs, who played a starring role in the surprise. Here’s how the day unfolded and why this session remains one of my favorite memories.

Planning the Perfect Surprise

The groom reached out to me weeks before the session, explaining his plan to propose during what would appear to be a normal couples photo shoot. He wanted the moment to be intimate and genuine, capturing the raw emotions without his fiancé feeling any pressure or suspicion. They also have never had photos done together, so he wanted to ensure they would be perfect.

We discussed the logistics carefully:

• Location: A quiet country setting with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for warm, natural light and vibrant colors.

• Timing: Late afternoon to catch the golden hour glow.

• The Dog’s Role: I suggested using the dog as a way to distract the fiancé just before the big moment.

  
  

His excitement was contagious, and I knew this session would be something special.

The Engagement Session Begins

Everything seemed like a typical couples shoot. They were relaxed and happy, enjoying the crisp fall air and the colorful leaves. We started with some classic portraits, capturing their smiles and the natural chemistry between them.

At one point, I asked the fiancé to hold their little dog for some close-up portraits. This was the moment we had been waiting for. The dog, calm and cooperative, in her arms as I prepared to capture the perfect shot.

The Sneak Proposal Moment

While she was focused on the camera, he quietly moved behind her with the dog. Then, in a heartwarming gesture, he got down on one knee, holding the ring. I then asked her to turn and the surprise was complete.

Her reaction was priceless: tears welled up, and she looked genuinely touched. The dog added a layer of sweetness to the moment, making the photos even more memorable. The candid expressions, the autumn backdrop, and the little dog’s presence combined to create a perfect scene.

Capturing Genuine Emotion

What made this session stand out was the authenticity of the emotions. The fiancé’s surprise was real, and the joy on both their faces was unmistakable. The dog’s calm demeanor helped keep the moment light and joyful, rather than overwhelming.

Some tips for couples planning a surprise proposal during a photo session:

• Communicate with your photographer: Make sure they understand your vision and can help coordinate the timing.

• Choose a meaningful location: A place that feels special to you both will add depth to the photos.

• Include something personal: Whether it’s a pet, a favorite item, or a shared hobby, personal touches make the moment unique.

• Keep it natural: Let the emotions flow without too much staging or pressure.

  
  

Final Thoughts on This Fall Engagement Session

This engagement session was a beautiful reminder of why I love what I do. Being part of a surprise proposal, especially one that includes a beloved pet, is a rare and special experience. The fall setting with its rich colors, the genuine emotions, and the little dog’s charm all came together to create photos that the couple will treasure forever.

If you’re thinking about planning a surprise proposal or an engagement session, consider how you can make it personal and meaningful. Whether it’s involving a pet, choosing a favorite spot, or simply focusing on authentic moments, these details make all the difference.

Feel free to reach out to learn more: sterling.photography@outlook.com