How a Family Photo Session Turned Into a Storybook Proposal

One of my favorite things as a photographer is when someone lets me in on a big, happy secret. There’s just nothing like the thrill of being a co-conspirator for a surprise proposal. I’ve seen a lot of creative plans, and it’s always fun to be a part of something like this. But you have to be prepared, because you can never be totally sure of how it’s all going to play out…

Picture this: it’s a (very, very) warm morning here in Allen, Texas. I’m snapping what looks like just another round of family photos on a sun-dappled wooden bridge near the Allen Old Stone Dam.  Everyone’s doing their best to look casual in their coordinated blues trying not to melt in the Texas heat. The energy seemed normal for a Saturday morning, but on the inside everyone but one of us knew this was more than just family pictures…

This was a great group – Mom, Dad, and two brothers – and one brother’s girlfriend, their dog, and their cousin who is there to take care of the dog!  Yep…she was needed to “take care of the dog.”  Actually, she was there to take care of the ring, and to be ready to video the proposal with her cell phone.  But that was all part of the big secret!  Behind all the smiles and cheery lineups, there was much more going on than what any passersby would see…

The Code Word Conspiracy

The plan? A marriage proposal hidden in plain sight. The groom-to-be brought his cousin as the “dog handler”—because of course the family pup needed to be a part of this ruse! We had a code for when the proposal was to happen – everyone knew that when we worked our way back to the middle of the bridge, and I separated the groom-to-be and his girl, everyone except the couple would smoothly step out of the lineup. Suddenly, it’s just the boyfriend and girlfriend standing center stage, with the rest of the family slipping into hush mode alongside me.

Sure enough, everyone stepped out of the lineup, the groom-to-be was all smiles and he reached into his back pocket where he had secretly stashed the ring his cousin had been hiding for him until right before the big moment, and he dropped to one knee right there on the bridge.

Shock, joy, teary eyes—the whole nine yards—and I had the perfect front-row seat with my camera ready. It was one of those moments where the world just kind of stands still and you get to bottle it up forever in a photograph. (The look on her face when she realized what was happening? Priceless.)

My Best Disguises (So Far!)

Now, this isn’t my first rodeo when it comes to sneaky proposals. I’ve hidden in bushes, pretended to be taking photos of “rare birds,” and I once even faked a headshot session for my own sister to pull off the surprise. I feel like half photographer, half undercover agent sometimes. But that’s what makes it fun! Every couple has their style, and I’m here to make your grand plan go off without a hitch (and have the photos to prove it).

Thinking of Popping the Question?

If you’re eyeing a secret proposal, here are a few quick tips:

• Plan a distraction: Family sessions, dog walks, and “just because” photo shoots are all great covers.
• Let me know your plan: The more I know, the smoother everything goes. We can pick code words, fake reasons for me being there, whatever you need.
• Keep it casual: The less pressure everyone feels, the more genuine those reactions will be.
• Dress the part: Simple, coordinated outfits (nothing too stiff) make for the best natural-looking photos—like the cheerful blues from this latest bridge proposal session.

Ready to Make Some Memories?

Long story short: however you want to pop the question, I’m here for it. I’ll blend in, play along, hide completely from sight, and make sure you walk away with photos you’ll want to show off for a lifetime.

If you’re cooking up a secret moment (or just want some family photos with a little extra pizzazz), reach out to me. I’m game for whatever you’ve got in mind—sneaky disguises included.

Can’t wait to help tell your story!  You can find me over at Paula Mason Photography like always, or you can send me an email at [email protected].

Until next time…

Oh…and for those of you wondering…she said YES!!!