Planning to propose? First of all—congratulations! This is such an exciting time, and if you're here, you're already taking the first steps toward making it truly unforgettable. As a proposal, engagement, and wedding photographer in Los Angeles, I’ve had the joy of capturing countless yes-moments, and I’m here to help you make yours as meaningful, personal, and seamless as possible.
Whether you're already booked for a session with me or just starting to plan, here’s a helpful guide full of tried-and-true tips to get you fully prepared.
Every proposal is different, and the most memorable ones are always deeply personal. Think about what would feel most special to your partner:
Do they love intimate, private moments? Or would they be thrilled by a surprise in front of close family and friends?
Are they more drawn to scenic nature, elegant architecture, or a place with shared memories?
Would they want to be all dressed up—or do they prefer something casual and natural?
Taking a moment to reflect on your partner’s personality and preferences will guide every other detail. Consider incorporating their favorite flowers, music, or hobbies into the setup. Customizing the details of the proposal showcases your thoughtfulness and will no doubt earn you some major points!
A meaningful location adds emotion and depth to the proposal—and makes for beautiful photos! Some ideas to consider:
Where you first met or had your first date
A breathtaking scenic spot (beach overlook, garden, mountaintop)
A favorite weekend hangout or cozy coffee shop
A luxury hotel rooftop, vineyard, or private estate
Pro tip: If you’re not sure where to propose, I’m happy to recommend hidden gems and locations that photograph beautifully, especially here in LA and Orange County.
Timing can make a huge difference, both emotionally and visually. Consider:
Lighting: Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) is ideal for soft, flattering light
Crowds: Weekdays or mornings tend to be quieter for public locations
Season: If you're dreaming of a certain look—spring blooms, golden leaves, a coastal breeze—let’s factor that in!
While it's tempting to choose a specific date for symbolic reasons, flexibility can make a world of difference. You'll have plenty of meaningful dates to celebrate together in the future—your wedding day, anniversaries, and more. Giving yourself room to plan thoughtfully helps ensure that the setting, the light, and the moment itself come together perfectly. (I've had many clients reach out ready to propose but with very little notice—and unfortunately, I’m often already booked.) Planning ahead with some flexibility can make all the difference!
If you want it to be a surprise, you’ll need a solid cover story! Here are a few ideas:
Suggest a date night at a special place (I can meet you there incognito!)
Say you’ve booked a couple’s shoot or a casual photo session (I’ll play along!)
Enlist a friend to help guide your partner to the location
Subtle planning keeps things exciting without giving too much away.
Your partner will likely want to feel confident and comfortable in the photos—especially since they’ll be shared with friends and family. Help set the stage:
Plan a reason for them to dress up without suspicion (a brunch, dinner, celebration, etc.)
If you’re scheduling a shoot, let them know in advance if it’s styled or elevated in any way
I also offer tips and outfit inspiration to help you guide them subtly if needed!
A beautiful proposal is more than a ring—it’s the thoughtfulness you put into the moment. Consider adding:
A handwritten letter or note
A personal story or memory in your speech
Family heirlooms or meaningful music
Flowers or a custom setup (yes, I help with those too!)
Even a small detail can make it feel like a fairytale. And if you and your partner tend to keep things low-key or casual, it’s actually all the more reason to make this moment stand out. That doesn’t mean going over-the-top—it means making it intentional and special. I offer proposal setup services that are low-key in effort (you just show up and propose!) but high in reward. Your partner will be impressed—and don’t worry, I’ll make sure you get all the credit (I’m great at playing it cool like that).
This is one of the biggest moments of your life—don’t leave it to chance. Hiring a professional photographer ensures the moment is captured beautifully, discreetly, and with care. I’ll help you plan the timing, positioning, and all the little details so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Many of my clients say having these images means more to them than they ever expected. After all, a proposal is one of the biggest defining moments in any relationship – it's the start to forever.
Want to go the extra mile? Many of my clients turn their proposal photos into their very first fine art album—a stunning, tangible keepsake that tells the story of how it all began. If you’re interested in adding one to your session, just ask!
Still looking for a proposal photographer? Consider Stanley Wu Photography, experts in capturing proposals beautifully and discreetly. Don't just take my word for it, you can read over 200+ five-star reviews from past happy couples!