Confession: I find photographing proposals so much more stressful and capturing a wedding day. Because I’m not only having to photograph the wedding to the best of my abilities and tell a complete story, I’m also having to make sure that for a decent part of my time, I am not visible or at least, hiding in plain sight.

 Hunter and I had chatted and planned and prepared, but you’re always concerned that something might go sideways. Hunter and I agreed that the cactus garden near the Fort Worth Stockyards was the best spot for him to propose: it was private, pretty for pictures, and an easy walk back to the Stockyards. Just to be safe, Colton and I sat on a boulder and stared down any other photographers who were coming to the area as nicely as possible, to ensure that the space we had planned for Hunter to propose stayed clear and there wasn’t any confusion for when they arrived.

 Once I saw that Hunter and Madeline were making their way toward the proposal area, we ducked behind some purple sage bushes and did our best to be hidden while also keeping our eyes out for the happy couple.

 I was concerned that Madeline would pick up on the ruse while heading into the cactus garden away from the Fort Worth stockyards. Thankfully she had noticed other portrait sessions going on in that area, and thought it was pretty so Hunter was able to easily navigate her over under the guise of taking some pictures on their phones. 

When it comes proposals, we want to balance being close and getting in all those shots but also staying far enough away that we aren’t intruding on the momen–particularly when the bride-to-be has no idea that we were there a few minutes ago. They have their moment of excitement and celebration, and when they are ready to roll into portraits, we step in to capture some amazing images to remember the day.

I was thrilled when we started taking portraits and saw that the light was perfect in the gardens. Before the got too low however, we walked and chatted for a bit back to the Stockyards to take some portraits under the famous sign. Hunter and Madeline were such a sweet and related couple; I love that we were allowed to be a part of their story, particularly when Madeline jumped multiple times after Hunter asked her to marry him. 

Here’s a few tips for planning your Fort Worth Stockyards Proposal:

Do you want it to be a private surprise?

Think about if you want the proposal to be a surprise or if you’re okay with your future fiance knowing it’s coming. Also having a fake photo shoot leading into the proposal is an easy option if you’re nervous about getting her to the right spot.

When it comes to popular destinations like the Fort Worth Stockyards, you also want to keep in mind how private you want your proposal to be. Even in a very busy area like the Stockyards you can find quiet times or locations where you can have more privacy while still being in that iconic place.

What to do after the proposal

Keep in mind what you want to do after the proposal and your mini portrait session, are you having others join you or are you going to keep it a romantic dinner just the two of you? if family and friends are there do you want pictures with them before pictures of the two of you?

Remember, when it comes to a proposal if you’re hiring a professional photographer, you are not having to plan it all on your own! I include a planning call to walk through all the ideas and options and possible concerns to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Inquire today if you like to help me capture your proposal – – or send this to your boyfriend so he can reach out. 

Remember, when it comes to a proposal if you’re hiring a professional photographer, you are not having to plan it all on your own!

inquire now