A Complete Guide To Hiring An Austin Proposal Photographer
Here’s Some Tips For Finding An Austin Proposal Photographer
So you've decided it's time to propose to your partner, and you live in Austin. Now what? Now it's time to hire a photographer, of course!
Believe it or not, it's normal for people to be hiring a proposal photographer, especially in the day of social media. We’ve seen the Instagram posts or TikTok videos (even if they’re a bit cringe-worthy).
However, proposal photography is different from regular photo sessions. This isn't an engagement session where everyone involved knows what they've agreed to—you're planning to surprise your loved ones with one of the biggest questions of your life!
And hiring a surprise proposal photographer can help make everything just that much better!
This can be a nerve-wracking experience, so let's go over how to plan a surprise proposal and make this big moment even more awesome!
How Is Proposal Photography Different From Engagement Photography?
Clients are often wondering about the difference between proposal photography and an engagement session.
As mentioned above, the biggest difference is that someone isn't aware of what's about to happen. Proposal photos can turn into a mini-engagement session, but engagement photo sessions aren't proposals. Okay, that might be a bit confusing, but stick with me here.
Why Should You Hire a Proposal Photographer?
If you're reading this, then you're probably asking yourself this exact question! Proposal photography is a relatively new phenomenon born out of social media. It became cool and hip a few years back to do this—and the trend has stuck!
You'll Get Tons Of Mileage Out Of The Photos
I'm of the belief you can never have too many photos! But these photos can be used in all sorts of places. You can share it on social media, send it to friends, and even use it on your upcoming wedding website!
3 Benefits Of Proposal Photography
Of course, there are tons of benefits to hiring a proposal photographer! Let's go over the top three.
Mini-Engagement Session
The top benefit of hiring a proposal photographer is that it can turn into a mini-engagement photo session! Of course, depending on how you convince your partner out the door, they may not be feeling their best, so make sure you bring a change of clothing or makeup along! This is especially something to consider if you decide to make an early-morning hike a proposal moment!
Capture Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Moment
The moment you get onto one knee, everything is about to change. You've made a solid plan for this important moment—and you're going to have the best photos! This proposal doesn't have to be fancy or anything—it's about capturing that once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Beautiful Photos For Social Media
If you aren't into social media, then having pictures to post online might not be a selling point. But if you're all about capturing the moment, then you'll want to share your proposal experience with the world with gorgeous photos.
Everyone in your life will be so excited that you're getting engaged and will want to share this special moment. That's the point of social media, isn't it? And again, if social media isn’t your thing, you can at least text the images to your bestie!
Finding A Photographer For The Wedding
While this might not always be the case—your partner might have a different wedding photographer in mind—you can possibly find your dream wedding photographer this way!
You'll get a chance to see how they capture the proposal pics, how they help plan big moments and get a feel for how they'd fit into the big day. Oh, and I happen to know of one…hint hint
How Much Does a Proposal Photographer Cost?
This is also a popular question for people looking for a professional photographer to photograph their proposal.
A surprise proposal can take a lot of planning. An experienced proposal photographer will help you with proposal planning and help you find the best proposal locations.
The Austin area has all sorts of locations you'll love, especially if you're trying to avoid doing it in a public place or even avoid smaller crowds.
Because of this, you can expect to spend between $400 and $700, depending on the experience of the proposal photographer.
How To Prepare For Your Surprise Proposal
From picking the right proposal spot to getting everyone, including the proposal photographer, in the right location, it can involve a lot of planning.
So here are some tips for planning your proposal.
Talk With Your Proposal Photographer About A Plan B
Proposals can have unexpected hiccups sometimes, especially when you're trying to plan one with a secret photographer! Your partner might change their mind or something will come up. That's the downside to surprise proposals!
So make sure to discuss with your proposal photographer about a Plan B!
Visit The Proposal Location And Consider Possible Obstacles
This goes hand-in-hand with the above point—make sure to scout out the location ahead of time. If you're proposing in the evening, what does the golden hour look like? Is there a flattering light? It isn't necessary for amazing photos, but it helps!
Also, look to see how easy it might be for your photographer to hide. A secret proposal will be ruined if the photographer is obvious!
Your photographer will need to know where you're going to stop and help plan how they aren't going to be so obvious.
What Is the Best Time of Day for a Surprise Proposal?
Great question! Really, this depends on the location. If it's out in the open with no shade, then you'll want to choose the golden hour, which is about 60-90 mins before sunset. However, if your partner tends to run behind on things, then earlier in the day might be a better idea!
What Time of Year Should You Propose in Austin?
Proposal pictures are going to be great any time of year because you're getting engaged! However, the most common proposal season is, unsurprisingly, the holiday season. It's extremely popular to pop the question over Christmas!
Proposals can happen any time of year—so pick the season that feels best for you. If you or your partner sweat in the summer heat, then I'd recommend avoiding that time.
I’d Love To Help You Find Austin Proposal Locations
You're planning a surprise proposal, but that doesn't mean everything else has to be a surprise!
After working in Austin, TX, for years and years, I know some great proposal spots! Once you decide to work with me, then I can help you get an idea of the best place for us to capture pictures that your future spouse will love!
3 Proposal Locations In Austin You’ll Adore
Sekrit Theater
Location: 115 Perry Rd. Austin, TX 78721
Hours: 6am-10pm
Parking: Free street parking
While this is definitely more of a not-so-secret spot anymore, this is also a fabulous spot for surprise proposal photography. You can reserve a spot online and they have different pricing for the time/type of event. You can find all the details on their website.
Lady Bird Lake
Location: 1541 W Cesar Chavez St. Austin, TX 78703
Hours: 6am-7:30pm
Parking: Depending on the location
Lady Bird Lake is one of the most iconic spots in Austin, with beautiful lawns, bridges, and sweeping views of Downtown Austin. You can also bring your pet with you (this can even be a great excuse to get out the door to pop the question!).
This spot is good any time of day, but if you're looking to avoid crowds, I recommend considering a sunrise jaunt around the lake.
Mount Bonnell
Location: 3800 Mount Bonnell Rd. Austin, Texas 78731
Hours: 5am - 10pm
Parking: Free!
Pets: Yep, on a leash!
Mount Bonnell can be a great proposal location due to its beautiful views. Some people call it a hike, but I assure you it's decidedly not a hike. It can be a little crowded, but if you're up for it, a sunrise surprise proposal would be gorgeous here!
Wrapping Up
One of my favorite things as a photographer is to capture proposals! Sure, I love a good wedding day, but there's something about the excitement and anticipation of a proposal that I adore.
While proposal pictures aren't everyone's cup of tea, it's never a bad idea to hire a professional photographer for it! I promise you and your partner won't regret having someone there to capture the moment.