TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR PROPOSAL PICTURE-PERFECT

Planning the perfect proposal is an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. You’ve probably thought about how to make it special and unforgettable, but have you considered the small details that can make a big difference in how it looks in photos and video?

As a husband-and-wife photography and videography team, we’ve captured dozens of stunning proposals, and from our experience, these tips will help ensure your moment is beautifully preserved and stress-free. Here’s our ultimate guide to making your proposal picture-perfect!

BEFORE THE PROPOSAL – PREPARE FOR THE MOMENT

1. CHOOSE THE PERFECT LOCATION AND TIME

The setting of your proposal plays a huge role in how it will look in photos and video. Consider:

Lighting: The best time for natural light is golden hour (just before sunset) for soft, flattering tones. If proposing at night, ensure there’s proper lighting.
Scenery: A meaningful location adds sentimental value to your photos. Whether it’s where you first met, a scenic overlook, or a private beach, choose a place that reflects your love story.
Privacy vs. Public: Decide if you want an intimate moment or a grand public display with family and friends.

2. HIRE A PROPOSAL PLANNER (IF NEEDED)

If you’re planning an elaborate proposal or need help with logistics, hiring a proposal planner can be a game-changer. They can assist with location scouting, decor setup, timing coordination, and even making sure your partner is dressed appropriately for the occasion (without giving away the surprise!). A professional planner ensures everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on the moment itself.

3. PLAN YOUR OUTFIT WISELY

You’ll look back at these photos for years, so choose an outfit that is:

Timeless and comfortable
Free from busy patterns or distracting logos
Coordinated with your partner’s style for a cohesive look
Appropriate for the location (e.g., avoid white pants if proposing on grass!)

4. BOOK A PROFESSIONAL PHOTO & VIDEO TEAM

A proposal is one of the most significant moments of your life, and capturing it professionally will allow you to relive it for years to come. A skilled photographer and videographer will know how to capture every emotion, from the anticipation to the joyous "YES!" They’ll also guide you through some post-proposal portraits, so you leave with a full gallery of stunning images and video clips that tell your love story beautifully.

Note: If you’re planning a nighttime proposal, make sure your photographer and videographer have a proper lighting setup. Low-light conditions can be tricky, so working with a team experienced in nighttime photography ensures your moment is well-lit and beautifully documented.

5. PREP YOUR HANDS FOR CLOSE-UPS

Your hands will be in many close-up shots, so make sure they look their best.

6. KEEP THE RING SAFE & HIDE IT WELL

Avoid awkward bulges in your pockets! Before the proposal:

Empty your pants pockets of keys, phones, or wallets.
If you're unsure where to keep the ring, place it in your jacket pocket or use special socks with hidden pockets.

7. BRING CHAMPAGNE TO CELEBRATE!

A small but cute touch - bringing a bottle of champagne to pop after the proposal makes for fun, celebratory photos! It also gives you a chance to:

Toast to your future together
Relax and enjoy the moment before calling family and friends
Capture joyful, candid shots of you both celebrating

Idea: If you don’t drink alcohol, bring an alcohol-free champagne - it still pops the way it’s supposed to!

When you work with Purity Weddings, you’re in the hands of a team with extensive experience capturing proposals all across California - from the breathtaking cliffs of Malibu to the private mansions of Hollywood Hills, the scenic shores of San Diego, and even the dreamy backdrop of Catalina Island. We’ve worked in all lighting conditions, from bright midday sun to golden hour magic and intimate nighttime proposals, both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re working with a proposal planner or planning it all on your own, we know how to adapt and make everything seamless. You can trust us to take one big thing off your shoulders - so you can focus on the moment, knowing that every reaction, every emotion, and every detail will be preserved perfectly.

DURING THE PROPOSAL – CAPTURE THE PERFECT MOMENT

8. SET ASIDE BAGS & ACCESSORIES

If your future fiancé carries a bag or purse, kindly encourage them to set it aside before you propose. You don’t want their bag slung over their shoulder in the photos!

9. SPEAK CLEARLY & LOUD ENOUGH

Proposals are emotional, and it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. But if you’re having your proposal filmed, speaking too softly might mean your words won’t be recorded clearly.

If proposing in a loud environment (beach, near a fountain, with background music playing), project your voice slightly louder so your words can be heard in the video.
Speak clearly, so your partner (and the camera) can fully capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.

10. TAKE A MOMENT TO SOAK IT ALL IN

Right after they say YES!, don’t rush into the next thing. Let the emotions sink in - these unscripted reactions make for the best photos!

AFTER THE PROPOSAL – CHERISH THE MOMENT & SHARE THE JOY

11. SET ASIDE BAGS & ACCESSORIES

If you’re working with us, get excited, because in a week, you’ll receive professionally edited, high-quality photos and videos that truly capture the magic of your proposal. These are the ones you’ll want to print, frame, and share everywhere. Your proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and we make sure it looks just as incredible as it felt!

12. SPAM YOUR SOCIALS—YOU DESERVE IT!

Once you have your gorgeous proposal photos and video, it’s time to go all out on social media! Post that dreamy “YES!” moment, flood your Instagram stories, change your profile pic, and let the world celebrate with you!

FULL NAME *

FIANCE'S NAME *

EMAIL *

PHONE NUMBER

DESIRED DATE *

LOCATION *

WE'D LOVE TO HEAR MORE *

DO YOU HAVE A PROPOSAL PLANNER? IF YES, WHO IS IT?

Photography

Videography

Both

TIPS FOR YOUR PERFECT PROPOSAL – FROM A PHOTO & VIDEO TEAM

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR TEAM