Photography plays a vital role in capturing the cherished moment of a marriage proposal. Here are the steps to best prepare for your shooting proposal.
The Selection of the Photo Shoot Type
The ‘Paparazzi’ Proposal: Imagine your partner suspecting nothing, walking with you in an iconic location, and at the moment of the proposal, a photographer, hidden from view, captures the surprise. This spontaneous approach adds an authentic touch to your photographs.
The Planned Photo Shoot: In this setup, you inform your partner that a photo shoot is scheduled. It’s during this shoot that you pop the question. While this method might give away some hints to your partner, it allows the photographer to set the scene optimally.
Prepare Your Shooting proposal Session
- The Location:
Plan your journey ahead, keeping in mind the busy Parisian traffic. Make sure you have a clear route mapped out. It’s wise to arrive early. Take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the surroundings of the shooting proposal spot, ensuring punctuality. If your shoot is outdoors, dress appropriately for the season.
- Poses:
Consider using a Pinterest board or screenshots on your phone to communicate your vision to your photographer in advance, obtaining feedback based on their expertise. If you’re unsure about what poses to choose, trust your photographer’s judgment. With their vast experience, they have a repertoire of poses from previous sessions that will highlight your best features.
- What Time:
Daylight: Natural light shines brightest during daytime. This period’s abundant brightness is perfect for dynamic photography. Daylight is typically crisp and clear, allowing for sharp photos without additional lighting. Colors often pop more, and details in the landscape or outfits stand out.
Golden Hour: This enchanting time, right after sunrise and just before sunset, presents exquisite golden light. This soft, warm glow enhances complexions and creates a romantic atmosphere, making it ideal for couples’ shoots. Mornings offer calm in still-quiet public spaces, while evenings bring a more lively and jovial mood.
Blue Hour: Right after sunset, the blue tones provide a tranquil, almost surreal ambiance, adding a unique artistic flair to your photos. The first city lights start to twinkle; it’s a transitional time from day to night, allowing for diverse compositions with the ever-changing light throughout the shoot.
Nighttime: Whether it’s 9-10 PM in summer or between 5-6 PM in winter, Paris’ nocturnal lights come alive. A festive, romantic, and mysterious atmosphere prevails, reminiscent of candlelit evenings. With the illuminated Eiffel Tower as a backdrop, the iconic charm of Paris will undoubtedly be at its peak. For these shots, additional lighting is crucial.
- Rain:
In Paris, rain usually don’t last long. We often manage to slightly adjust the shoot’s timing to catch a break in the rain, depending on your and the photographer’s availability. If it’s a light drizzle, it won’t disrupt the session. For heavier rain, we have transparent umbrellas that not only shield but also look aesthetically pleasing in photos. Sharing an umbrella on Parisian streets paints an iconic, romantic picture of the city. If rain becomes torrential, depending on the chosen shooting proposal location, covered alternatives will always be considered.
Tips for Successful shooting proposal
Follow these simple steps to capture that magical moment:
Stick to the scheduled time: Never arrive at the proposal location before the agreed time, unless the on-site team confirms everything is ready for your arrival. If you’re running late, your photo session might be shortened based on your photographer’s schedule.
- Subtly suggest she opts for a simple hairstyle, like a bun or ponytail. Make sure her hair doesn’t hide her face to capture her reaction properly.
- Remove phones, wallets, and other bulky items from your pockets. Our team will be on hand when you arrive to collect your bags, coats, and any other items that might interfere with the session.
- Position yourself side-on to the background, slightly angled, with your soon-to-be fiancée facing you. This way, the photographer can capture both her face and reaction and you in profile, kneeling with the ring in hand (as depicted below).
- Present the open ring carefully, as if it’s a precious treasure. Maintain eye contact and make her feel one of a kind.
- Hold this position for at least 5 to 10 seconds, until she accepts the ring. This gives the photographer time to take multiple shots and position themselves perfectly according to your movements.
- Whether you remain kneeling or stand up to give her the ring, keep the box close for more freedom of movement.
- Gently slide the ring onto her finger, pause, and savor the moment. Remember, this moment is yours; embrace it fully without feeling the need to look at the photographer.
Points Not to Forget
Lighting is a critical component to discuss with your photographer, especially for evening photo shoots. A high-quality image demands appropriate lighting. Your photographer might not be able to manage both the shoot and the lighting concurrently. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with them. Photographers typically have solutions and advice to offer on this matter.
Being the fashion capital, Paris gives you the liberty to choose the attire that suits you best, be it the most elegant or the most flamboyant. In winter months, dress warmly and consider using hand warmers or other accessories to stay warm during shooting proposal breaks.
Regarding the weather, it’s crucial to communicate effectively with your photographer. It might be possible to reschedule in the event of severe weather, or else change locations to find shelter, such as the Bir-Hakeim bridge, an iconic Parisian spot suitable for shooting in any weather. In any case, remember to prepare well and bring umbrellas and warm clothing.
For couples, it’s essential to display your bond for natural-looking photos. If you’re traveling from afar, ensure you rest and get a good night’s sleep before the session. Lastly, take your time, stay relaxed, and cherish this timeless moment with your partner.
Preparing for a photo shoot in Paris requires meticulous planning, whether it’s about selecting the ideal package, communicating with the photographer, or picking the perfect location and outfit. Each step of this process aims to capture the magical essence of Paris and ensure you leave with unforgettable memories. By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your photographic experience in the City of Light. For more inspiration on poses and outfits, feel free to check out our Pinterest board or follow our Instagram account to view our complete portfolio. If you enjoyed this adventure, don’t hesitate to read our latest article titled “The Exclusive Eiffel Terrace for Unforgettable Moments in Paris” to discover our favorite terrace for a romantic moment and a truly successful photo shoot!