“There is only one sun. We can’t all claim to only have one way to use the light, but we can REDEFINE how we choose to express it.”
Why are you passionate about proposals?
I enjoy documenting life’s biggest and most intimate moments. Between capturing gorgeous newborns and growing families, there’s nothing like documenting a couple’s history than right at the beginning. Receiving an inquiry from someone about to propose to their life partner is so exciting! I love hearing their story of how they got together, details of their first date, what their favorite things are of this special person and how they plan to propose. The best part is I get to capture this moment in their history to share with generations to come…what a humbling position for me to be in.
When did you first realize you liked photographing proposals?
It all started with this particular photo session in this post. He contacted me looking for a photographer who knew the area well and available on short notice. While most photographers like to have sessions scheduled in advance, including me, I couldn’t resist saying yes to someone who actually thought of having this moment captured. After listening to their story and his plans, we made it happen. It was that moment and during their photo session that I was hooked!
What are the tips you would share with anyone trying to get into photographing proposals?
With that excitement, there were definitely some things to consider. First, was a matter of putting it out there so people knew it was an important event to capture. Most clients inquiring about proposal photography think of it last minute because they may not know such a thing exists, so talking and posting about it often can make it a “normal” event to photograph.
Second was considering my own availability. Would I be able to accommodate a last minute request? Since potential clients would be thinking of such a thing last minute, I would have to be available within the next few days or so, which is different when planning for any other type of photography. You definitely have to be much more flexible in your scheduling.
A few other things to think about is your equipment and how to photograph the proposal without being discovered. This takes a lot of communication with your client and if he’s like my husband, you may not get every detail you need. Remember to ask a lot of questions! In fact, during this photo session there was a family session happening on the same beach. The photographer didn’t know the groom had me to cover his proposal when she felt the need to snap some images for them. After I captured the actual proposal, I made my way down and let the bride know I photographed the whole thing. Lucky for them, they got some images from me and some close-ups from the other photographer. Since I was a bit further away, having a long lens (70-200mm) was a necessity!
Lastly, this is a great place to start if you want to get into photographing weddings. You can think about marketing it alongside grooms ready to buy a ring or offering it to couples on vacation together. However you get there, I highly recommend getting the word out and images published so potential clients can have it on their list of must-haves for the perfect proposal.
About the photographer:
My name is Maria Oliva-McKeen of Olive Light Images and I am a Southern California-based photographer offering Elope and Intimate Wedding, Proposal, Maternity and Family Photography. I am also a fashion, food, and travel loving Christ Follower, FF Wife and Mama of 2.
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