Should You Propose During a Photoshoot or Plan a Secret Proposal?
Wondering how to photograph your proposal in Copenhagen? This guide compares photoshoot proposals and hidden photographer options to help you decide.
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If you're planning to propose, one of the key decisions is how you want this special moment captured. Based on my experience photographing proposals in Copenhagen, there are essentially two approaches: proposing during what appears to be a regular photoshoot, or arranging a completely secret proposal with a hidden photographer. Each option has its own advantages and considerations that are worth thinking about as you plan your perfect moment.
Option 1: Proposing During a Planned Photoshoot
Proposing during what your partner believes is just a regular photoshoot can be an excellent option for many couples. This "baked-in" proposal approach has several advantages worth considering.
Advantages
Looking their best: Your partner will come prepared to be photographed, dressed nicely and feeling confident about their appearance – something many people appreciate for such a memorable moment.
Less suspicious: If you regularly take professional photos together (for holidays, annual updates, etc.), this won't raise any red flags.
Location flexibility: When that perfect spot turns out to be overrun with tourists or closed unexpectedly, your photographer can smoothly guide you to a backup location without ruining the surprise – a lifesaver that's saved many proposal plans!
More “controlled” environment: You'll have the perfect lighting, ideal timing, and best angles all planned in advance – meaning one less thing to worry about when your heart is already racing about popping the question.
Disadvantages
Less intimate: The presence of a known photographer might make the moment feel slightly less private – like having a friend watching your big moment unfold.
Reduced spontaneity: Your partner might be in "photo mode" rather than fully present, thinking about smiling for the camera instead of absorbing what's happening.
Managing expectations: You'll need to coordinate with your photographer about the exact moment without tipping off your partner – a bit of a juggling act when you're already nervous!
Option 2: The Secret Proposal with Hidden Photographer
A completely secret proposal, where your partner has no idea a photographer is capturing the moment, creates a different kind of magic.
Advantages
Genuine reactions: The surprise element often leads to more emotional, unfiltered reactions – those jaw-dropping, hands-over-mouth moments that make for the most heartfelt photos.
Truly intimate: You can have a private moment that feels completely authentic, saying what's in your heart without feeling observed – just the two of you in your own little bubble.
Being present: Without camera awareness, you're both fully immersed in the emotional experience – no posing, just pure feeling.
The element of surprise: There's that magical second surprise when you tell them afterward that the whole thing was captured professionally, almost like getting to experience the joy twice!
Disadvantages
Logistical challenges: You'll be texting your photographer from “bathroom breaks” and checking your watch nervously – proposal planning can feel like a covert operation!
Location limitations: That dreamy viewpoint might not work if there's nowhere for a photographer to hide – some of the most picturesque spots just don't allow for stealth photography.
Weather dependency: When rain threatens your carefully planned outdoor proposal, pivoting to Plan B gets tricky without revealing the surprise.
Appearance concerns: I've heard many partners say afterward, "I wish I'd known – I would have worn something different!" – something to consider if your partner is appearance-conscious.
Curious about what goes on behind the scenes of a secret proposal? The clip above shows the special moment of a secret proposal on a boat.
Which Option Is Right For You?
From what I've observed photographing proposals, certain patterns might help you decide.
Consider the planned photoshoot route if:
Your partner is particular about their appearance – if they always want to look their best in photos, they'll appreciate being prepared
You already take professional photos together regularly, making this the perfect cover story
You're proposing somewhere popular where crowds might interfere with your moment
You're the type who prefers having all the details under control rather than leaving things to chance
The secret proposal might be better if:
Those raw, emotional reaction photos are what you're dreaming of
You've found a meaningful spot that offers both privacy and a place for a photographer to hide
You're working with a photographer who knows how to “blend in” into the chosen settings
You value that completely authentic, unscripted moment between just the two of you
Final Thoughts
There's no universally "better" option – it really comes down to knowing your partner and what would make this moment special for the two of you. Some people treasure those raw, surprised reactions, while others would much rather look their best for such an important life milestone.
Whichever route you choose, having an open conversation with your photographer beforehand makes all the difference. Share your vision, your concerns, and what matters most to you about capturing this moment.
In the end, whether it's a planned photoshoot surprise or a completely hidden photographer scenario, what makes proposal photos truly beautiful isn't perfect lighting or locations – it's the genuine emotion and love that shines through in every frame.
Wishing you an enthusiastic yes!
About the author:
I'm Ieva Vi - a professional wedding & proposal Photographer, based in Copenhagen. When I'm not behind the lens capturing beautiful moments, I love to explore new places and share my experiences with readers. Take a look at my portfolio, and feel free to reach out for collaborations
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