Kotsy Photography is a Toronto wedding photographer specializing in capturing couple's uniqueness through authentic, compelling & fun images. From large, all-day weddings to elopements & engagement sessions in Toronto, Ontario and the rest of the Greater Toronto Area.
If you’re reading this, it’s safe to say that you’re on the verge of an incredibly exciting moment in your life – the marriage proposal! As a Toronto-based engagement photographer, I’m here to help you pull off an unforgettable surprise proposal without your significant other suspecting a thing.
1. Keep The Surprise Alive
First things first, if you want to plan an epic surprise proposal, you’ll need to be a master of discretion. The key to keeping your secret hidden is all in the planning. Don’t make abrupt changes to your daily routine or your partner might catch on. Communicate with trusted friends or family members that are good at keeping secrets to who can help you create an alibi.
2. Selecting the Right Photographer
Choosing the right photographer is a critical step in planning your secret proposal. You need someone who understands the significance of this moment and can capture it beautifully. Research photographers in Toronto who specialize in engagement/proposal photography. Look at their portfolios to get a sense of their style and the quality of their work. Make sure they have experience in shooting surprise proposals as this is a unique niche.
When considering photographers, have a consultation to discuss your vision and ensure they are comfortable with your plan. I have been part of countless special moments and know the ins and outs without raising suspicions. Your chosen photographer should be discreet, experienced, and able to adapt to any unexpected changes in the plan. Trust is essential in this process, and by selecting a professional, you can ensure a stress-free experience.
3. Setting the Stage
Selecting the right location is essential in ensuring a perfect proposal. Think about your relationship and your partner’s interests. Do you guys have a favourite park, restaurant, or waterfront spot in Toronto? The location should hold sentimental value, which will make the proposal even more special.
Another thing to consider is the time of day and how the lighting will affect your photographs. Dusk can create a romantic ambiance, while daytime proposals can be beautifully vibrant. My personal favourite time do proposals is during “golden hour”, which is the hour before sunset. It features the the best natural light of the day, which is very warm/”golden” and flattering to not just people but your location too.
Once you’ve chosen the location time, visit it beforehand to scout for ideal spots and angles for your photographer. Some photographers will be willing to meet up with you in advance or offer suggestions if they’re familiar with the area. Remember, the goal is to make this moment as magical as possible while keeping your fiancé(e)-to-be in the dark about the big event.
4. Timing is Everything
Timing is crucial when planning a secret proposal. You’ll need to ensure that your partner won’t suspect anything unusual. For this, it’s essential to select a date and time when they won’t expect a proposal.
You should avoid holidays, birthdays, or any significant dates that may raise suspicions unless the location is something that makes sense to take them on that date. Save the proposal for a routine activity like a casual dinner, a walk in the park, or a weekend outing. This is the best way to make sure your partner won’t suspect a thing.
The photographer should arrive early at the chosen location to set up and remain hidden until the right moment. Providing them with regular text updates is really beneficial but doing this too much may arose suspicion. It’s a really fine line!
5. Blending in with the Crowd
On the big day, your photographer should blend seamlessly into the surroundings. They might act as a passerby or a tourist, depending on your chosen location. Their attire and equipment should match the environment to avoid drawing attention.
A casual outfit and minimal gear are the keys to not arousing suspicion. The photographer should act like a part of the scenery, keeping their distance until you make the surprise proposal. They’ll be ready to capture the moment without missing a beat.
6. Communication is Key
Effective communication between you and your photographer is essential. Use discreet signals or prearranged cues to indicate when the proposal is about to happen. Practice these cues beforehand to ensure a seamless experience. Once the moment arrives, keep it genuine and be yourself.
Above all – enjoy the moment, knowing that your photographer is there to document it all. It’s their job to capture the emotions and reactions so you can relive it through their lens.
7. The Post-Proposal Photoshoot
After the proposal, you can transition into a post-proposal photoshoot. This is an excellent opportunity to capture the love and excitement of a newly engaged couple.
Experienced photographers will have an array of poses but are usually open to suggestions too. Extending the photo shoot not only creates more memories but also longer visual narrative of your proposal story.
8. Sharing the Surprise with Your Fiancé(e)
The moment you’ve been waiting for – revealing the surprise photos to your fiancé(e)! Once you’ve captured this unforgettable moment, it’s time to share the photos with your partner. You can set up a reveal party with close friends and family or simply share the photos privately if your partner is more of an introverted type.
When you reveal the photos, be prepared for countless emotional moments. Your new fiancé(e) will be over the moon to see that you went through all this effort to create a perfect proposal memory.
The Perfect Proposal – Mission Accomplished!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully pulled off a surprise proposal without your fiancé(e) knowing what’s going on. It’s a moment you’ll cherish for the rest of your lives. Now, the only thing left to do is start planning your dream wedding with the same enthusiasm and attention to detail.
If you’re looking for a passionate and experienced Toronto-based photographer to capture your surprise proposal, engagement or upcoming wedding, look no further than Kotsy Photography! It’s my life’s work to make special moments into memories you can re-live over and over again in the decades to come.
