How to Plan a Perfect Surprise Proposal — Step by Step

Planning a surprise proposal is one of the most exciting — and nerve-wracking — things you’ll ever do. I’ve been part of 100+ proposals, and the ones that go smoothly all follow the same few steps. Here they are.

Step 1: Choose a place that means something

The location should feel meaningful to your partner, not just photogenic. Where was your first date? Where do they feel most like themselves? Do they love crowds or privacy? Once you have a feeling, we’ll narrow it to a specific spot — here are seven favorites around Orlando.

Step 2: Book your photographer first

The most common mistake: planning everything, then scrambling for a photographer at the last minute. For photography, 2–4 weeks ahead is usually enough; setup packages need at least 4 weeks. Spring weekends are peak proposal season in Orlando, so if you have a date in mind, don’t wait. Book first, then build the plan around that date.

Step 3: Plan the cover story

Keep it simple and believable. “Let’s get some photos of us at sunset” works for most couples. Brief anyone else involved. The simpler the story, the less likely it falls apart under questioning.

Step 4: Coordinate your setup (if you want one)

If you’re adding a setup — rose petals, candles, a floral arch, a custom sign — our team builds it before you arrive, and you won’t see it until your partner does. Setup packages need at least four weeks for full coordination. See what each setup includes and costs.

Step 5: Time it for the light

Golden hour — when the sun sits low before sunset — gives the most flattering light. In Orlando that warm window lasts only about 30–35 minutes, so we usually start an hour before sunset and aim the proposal for about 20 minutes before. I’ll give you an exact arrival time for your date and spot. Here are the times for every month.

Step 6: Agree on the signal

I need to know the moment is coming. We pick a simple cue — turning your partner to face the view, a tap on the shoulder, taking their hands — and you share your live location so I’m in position before you park. Here’s how Andrew did it.

Step 7: I stay hidden

When you arrive, I’m already in position — behind a tree, on a bench, photographing the scenery like any visitor. I use a telephoto lens from 50–100 feet away during the key moment. No flash, nothing loud enough to notice. Then I come in for portraits.

Step 8: Let go and be present

You’ve planned everything. Now let it happen. Don’t pose or perform. And stay down on one knee for a few seconds longer than feels natural — that’s where the best reactions are.

After the proposal

You’ll get a sneak peek within 24 hours and your full edited gallery within 48–72 hours, with full-resolution downloads in a private online gallery. Most couples spend that first evening going through the photos together — honestly one of my favorite parts of this job.