How to Plan a Surprise Proposal in Shenandoah National Park

If you are wondering: how do I plan a surprise proposal in Shenandoah National Park? You are in the right place. As a Shenandoah National Park engagement photographer, I’ve photographed my fair share of surprise proposals and I have the tea on how to make it epic.

Step 1: Connect with a great photographer (hello, nice to meet you!) who knows the park really well and can help you pick out the perfect spot for your surprise proposal.

Step 2: Decide on a location and time of day. I’m always going to recommend sunrise over sunset because there are just fewer people at that time of day in the park. However, weather can be tricky. As a general rule, you are more likely to get fog at sunrise than rain. But it is possible to get both, which is what happened to Olivia and Brittany. Know that when you are working with a great photographer you will still get epic photos, no matter the weather. I actually love how these turned out. They are moody and intimate and we danced around and enjoyed practically no other people there!

Step 3: Decide on a strategy for how to do the proposal. Personally, I get kind of nervous with the whole “hide in the bushes” strategy in the mountains. That’s because it’s hard for whoever is doing the proposing to know exactly where to be so I’m in the right spot to capture it.

Instead I opt for the “hiding in plain sight” strategy. I usually hike up with my dog or a friend and get there beforehand. I ask for the couple to take a photo of me with my phone. Then I say “hey, you want one too?” After the first smiling shot I may say “ok lets do an instagram one where you are looking out at the mountains together!” Then I quickly whip out my camera from the bag and start shooting. You can also go with the “hey honey I won a photoshoot!” route if that works better so your boo knows to dress up a bit.

Step 4: Before the shoot, download offline google map directions. You need to know EXACTLY where you are going so you aren’t wandering around looking for me on the day.

Step 5: Enjoy it! Planning a surprise proposal in Shenandoah National Park can be kind of nerve racking. But know when you work with me, I’ll help you every step of the way.