Where to have your Boston-area photoshoots

This has been a topic I’ve meant to do a big write-up on for the longest time. I guess it took a pandemic to make time for it! With people wanting to safely social distance during photoshoots, I recommend heading a bit out of the city for some reprieve from the crowds, joggers, dogs and bikers. Here is a list of some of my favourite locations photoshoots I’ve photographed in.

This is not a definitive list. I can honestly make any location work. I photograph in people’s homes 85% of the time and I have never set foot in their homes before the session, and I always have to make it work. That training over the past several years has helped me hone into what’s important to include in my frame of an image and what to crop out. If you stay until the end of the blog post I will show examples of some small parks and parking lot photo sessions. I keep forgetting to take more behind-the-scenes images, but when I get more, I will add them to this post. Just know you don’t have to go to the Public Gardens and that’s actually my least favourite place to photograph in the Boston area. Here’s my list for locations for photoshoots.

Locations are a personal preference

I had a PDF that I used to email to everyone when they asked for location suggestions. I tell them that they have to make sure they love it because a location is very much a personal preference. I love street art, derelict buildings, muddy puddles, splashing in the lake, and hikes up mountains. I can confidently say that 99% of my sessions do not include any of those items.

The things I tend to steer away from include iconic locations where you HAVE to photograph in this one spot from a specific location or there’s no point for that spot. Given the pandemic, I do not want to be lining up for a location, or having to cluster near a feature. Even if there wasn’t a pandemic, I follow the light and I love texture. When some landscape designers install a bridge or a gazebo, they don’t have the light in mind. Just because it’s there, I won’t necessarily use a bridge or gazebo unless the light is perfect. As a photographer, we see the world with light and shadow. It’s hard to convince someone unless they’ve had the training, but that’s why you’ve hired me – because you want me to make those choices and direct you to gorgeous backdrops.

If there is a location you have to have as a backdrop, please ask me during your consultation and make that abundantly clear so I can tell you how feasible it is. I want to make you happy, but that sometimes means changing the time of the session, bringing artificial lighting, or sacrificing the posed nature of the image captured there (because children will not hold a pose for a lighting setup). It’s a very technical decision sometimes, but I can make it work if that is the key image.

Summary of suggested locations for photoshoots

I provide examples for almost all of the following locations. I have been all across Boston and the greater Boston area. New locations don’t phase me. Under each location I give more tips on parking, things to consider, etc as well as the city these spots are located in.

1. Boston Public Gardens
2. Charles River Esplanade
3. Boston Commons
4. Christopher Columbus Park
5. The Fens
6. ICA / Seaport District
7. Davis Square / Trolley Square/ Powderhouse Circle
8. Tufts Campus
9. Fresh Pond Reservation
10. Alewife Brook Reservation
11. Danehy Park
12. Christian Herter Park
13. North Point Park
14. Menetomy Rocks Park
15. Tobert MacDonald Park
16. The Fells
17. Beaver Brook Reservation
18. Rock Meadow Conservation Land
19. Minuteman National Park
20. Wellesley College
21. Lynn Woods
22. Lower Commons, Wakefield
23. Breakheart Reservation
24. Larz Anderson Park
25. Arnold Arboretum
26. Fort Sewall, Marblehead
27. Crane Beach, Ipswich
28. North Shore Beach
29. Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester
30. Backyard
31. Park near you

Downtown locations for photoshoots

I will no longer be photographing any locations downtown (this includes the Charles River, Boston Public Gardens, Boston Commons, Christopher Columbus Park, any South End park) unless the session ends by 7:30 am. The sessions last about 40 minutes, so we would need to start by 6:50am at the latest. If this is too early for you, please consider a location out of the city. Ending by 7:30am is what I consider a ‘sunrise’ session (“sunrise for safety and OK light”). True sunrise for beautiful light is when true sunrise is according to this website.

If you are willing to consider a sunrise session, these are some visual examples of those locations:

1. Boston Public Gardens Photoshoot

2. Charles River Esplanade Photo Session

3. Boston Commons for a maternity session

4. Christopher Columbus Park

5. The Fens

Near Fenway is another cute spot that has great landscaping. Please note that most of this land is made up of small patches of community gardens. I love it though!

6. ICA / Seaport District

Sunrise option available if you love the downtown landscape! If you want a city feel away from the crowds, I love the seaport district near the Childrens museum and the ICA. They recently renovated the waterfront to have some great new features.

The following images are more creative (so not available for sessions with younger children). It requires flash and posing so it would work really well for engagement and senior sessions.

Somerville / Cambridge for photo sessions

7. Davis Square Powderhouse Park / Trolley Square| Somerville, MA

Let’s say I live in Davis Square so I shoot at these locations ALL the time. I come almost weekly to these spots because of my Davis Square location discount. Many of my clients also live in the area!

This is the same family! We have been seeing each other since she was still inside her mama’s belly. We haven’t left the square yet! So many choices and you don’t have to go far.

8. Tufts Campus | Somerville MA

Lots of spots around campus. I should note that campus is reopening in the Fall so there may be some tents set up closer to the start of the Fall semester.

9. Fresh Pond Reservation| Cambridge, MA

The caveat for the above location is that part of it is a playground. I am not sure if it will be closed or how comfortable your family is in a playground setting with regards to Coronavirus. Parking in this area is also tricky if you are not a Belmont or Cambridge permit holder.

The below area is also nearby but easier to access via parking near the Trader Joe’s at Alewife Brook Parkway.

10. Alewife Brook Reservation

Just around the bend from there is another park that I love. It’s a thoroughfare that connects Belmont to Cambridge. It’s called Alewife Brook Reservation. It’s just off the T line from Alewife station. Parking here is incredibly hard to find unless you park at the T.

11. Danehy Park | Cambridge, MA

I shoot at Danehy park a lot! I love it there. There are a lot of choices in the massive city park. We can easily move from place to place when people come around. I actually convinced one family to stay close by last year for their family session and they were happy I talked them out of heading further out.

12. Christian Herter Park | Cambridge, MA

One of my favourite parks because it has easy parking! The water is steps away from the parking lot. I do have to note that this is a busier park because it’s by the Charles River. There are a lot of joggers and bikers along the water. If you are ok not being by the water, we can find a quieter patch to photograph in.

13. North Point Park | Cambridge, MA (sunrise only)

I’m not going to reinvent the wheel, so if you want to see a whole bunch of photos taken at North Point, click HERE to see the blog post. I’m calling this a sunrise only session location because it’s right in the city and sometimes quite busy. Parking is also a huge pain here.

Arlington / Medford / Belmont / Concord for photo sessions

14. Menetomy Rocks Park | Arlington, MA (sunrise only)

I love this park in Arlington. Parking is found all around the park, so make sure we agree to meet in the right area. The most ‘iconic’ spot is the pond right in the center. I love this location for photoshoots. I am willing to do sunsets if you are flexible with location choices. We just have to dance around the many walkers/bikers/dog walkers. It’s pretty popular with off-leash dog walkers, unfortunately.

15. Tobert MacDonald Park| Medford, MA

The parking lot for this park is right by the Police station. Have you noticed how much I love easy logistics? It’s from years of running between back-to-back sessions and having families rush to a location because of a throw-up, I know how important it is to find easy parking. I always tell parents I can make any location work. The main thing is if they can get there easily and not be late. Sunrise is sunrise and sunset is unforgiving. We cannot argue with Mother Nature!

I photographed this family at another nearby park across from the Costco shopping center and LOVED how that turned out as well. There are so many options.

16. The Fells | Medford, MA

I adore the fells. I was actually there hiking this morning. When it has just rained you can smell the fresh wood. I have been going there for years. It’s for the more rugged families that are used to mud and muck. You have to dress properly and expect dirt and exploration. Basically, this isn’t a place for heels and dresses. If you love nature like me, this is a great suggested Location for photoshoots.

17. Beaver Brook Reservation | Belmont, MA

The little guy below had almost his entire session at this one park. It was easy as it was just down the street from his house. They often walked their dog Hattie here so it was sentimental to them. Locations aren’t the focus for me. It’s all about the light, interaction, emotion and expression.

During his 6 month photo session, we really lucked out with the most stunning sunset in the PARKING LOT. Have I mentioned how many of my images are basically created by a parking lot?

This was the epic parking lot photo we got after sunset as we were all walking back to our cars:

18. Rock Meadow Conservation area | Belmont, MA

I’ve done a blog set on this location, so again, I’ll direct you there to take a look at the landscape (BLOG POST)! I’ve photographed there often. I do have to make a note that it has become VERY popular. It’s more of a sunset location just because of the direction of the light/sun. This would not be suitable for a weekend location.

This session took place on an overcast and almost storming day:

19. Minuteman National Park | Concord, MA

I wouldn’t expect us to get a bridge photo as it’s a main thoroughfare, but it’s a great sprawling park with a lot of scenery. Lots of things to climb on and explore! It’s massive and a place for the kids to run wild.

A bit further out / Wellesley, Lynn, Wakefield, Saugus for photo sessions

20. Wellesley College | Wellesley, MA

21. Lynn Woods | Lynn, MA

I haven’t photographed or been here yet, but I do a lot of my scouting online before a session using just Google maps. If you want to read more about it, click on TripAdvisor.

22. Lower Commons, Wakefield MA

This was chosen by a Baby 1 Year family because they lived in Wakefield. It had a great green space, water and a gazebo for some interest. The parking lot was right there as well. I wouldn’t say this park is special, it’s merely an example that I can photograph any location and I don’t need to scout it out ahead of time. I just need cooperative subjects and good light.

23. Breakheart Reservation | Saugus, MA

This is another location that looks great on Google Maps. Check out the town website for details. I would definitely put this on a list of photogenic locations to check out.

OK so I checked it out on July 5th and it’s a beautiful place. I don’t know if I would recommend it for little children, but definitely for older kids, maternity or engagement sessions. The space is beautiful and if I can control where people stand and how they pose, I’ll likely be able to create epic images. With toddlers, I likely wouldn’t think it’s ideal unless parents are OK with purely documentary/exploration style. I would need to employ flash/lighting techniques to really bring out this location and unfortunately, with little ones, there’s no way that will happen.

It was a beautiful, foggy, overcast day when I went. These are just some iphone snaps I took, so the finished ‘real photo’ effect will be very different.

24. Larz Anderson (sunrise only)

I’ve covered Larz Anderson park extensively. I was bored of the Public Gardens a few years ago and suggested this park as an alternative. It’s located in Brookline. I will direct you to some full blog posts on this suggested location for photoshoots.

Family Session at Larz Anderson Blog Post # 1

Family Session at Larz Anderson Blog Post # 2

Family Session at Larz Anderson Blog Post #3

25. Arnold Arboretum (sunrise/sunset only)

Parking is tricky here because people tend to not expect the parking is just along the side of the road. Then they are usually late and roar right past it and then it’s about 15 minutes to circle back and park. I send parking instructions with every session here, but each time it’s still a fiasco for the uninitiated. If it’s your first time, I would recommend going once beforehand or leave an extra 20 minutes for parking. The Arboretum is one of my favourite locations for photoshoots.

I love this grand park in Jamaica Plain. There are so many spots to photograph here and we can avoid crowds by going off to the side.

By the Coast / North Shore for photo sessions

26. Fort Sewall| Marblehead, MA

I’ve been here 3 times and each time it looks different! For the full engagement session, please click HERE.

27. Crane Beach | Ipswich, MA

There’s paid parking at this beach so fees do apply, but you won’t find a more beautiful beach on the North Shore. We can easily social distance from people at sunset/sunrise on the weekdays. It’s that massive. I do not recommend weekends as it’s an absolute madhouse. Please also note greenhead season in July/August. We don’t want to be eaten alive there.

I should point out that there are restrictions currently at Crane Beach and that you have to secure a spot. Please reach out to them directly for the latest information about a sunset/sunrise session. I want you to feel confident you got the info right from the source. Online info HERE.

28. North Shore Beach

Somewhere along the North Shore is another rocky beach where these elopement wedding images were taken. It was empty when we went. I forget where it was, but if you are interested, reach out to me.

29. Wingaersheek Beach | Gloucester, MA

These were photographed at 8:30am when the parking lot opened. The beach is very tricky for photography and I highly recommend sunset or sunrise because you will have a warmth to the images and it won’t make you squint in all of your photos. If you know yourself and know you wear sunglasses at the beach, please plan to have a sunset/sunrise session. If we can figure out a weekday sunset or sunrise without parking issues, this is one of the great beach locations for photoshoots. Keep in mind, greenheads are also an issue here besides at Crane from around Mid-July to Mid-August. I will point out that many beaches are closed to non-locals on weekends. Please verify.

I still remember losing my 85mm lens to the ocean during this session!

Also, consider nearby for photo sessions

30. Backyard or Apartment Common Area | Locations for photoshoots near you

I can make a simple location look beautiful just through choosing the lens, knowing the light and cropping intentionally. I just need to know what the space looks like that I will be working with so I can consult with you whether or not it will work.

More suggestions to make your backyard work in this BLOG POST.

Families are always shocked when I can make a simple space they may have overlooked into something magical. The following was taken in their apartment parking lot.

31. Nearby Park | near you

I can make a small patch of greenery or florals look lush. You don’t have to travel far. I can do an entire session within 40 feet of the parking lot. I do a lot of scouting using Google maps. The only thing I cannot tell is if there is seasonal foliage or florals or construction. Those need to be verified closer to the date.

They go walking here all the time with their baby girl, so we had our session here. These images were taken back to back (one with my camera, and the other with the phone- ha! Guess which is which?). What you see and what I see may be quite different.

If you have some place in mind

Send me a pin and send me some panoramic photos! I prefer you take the photos when you plan to have the session, but just let me know what time you took the photos and if it’s a pano, I can extrapolate the information I need. If you just take a snap, I cannot tell where the sun is in relation to the landscape. The pin on google is important so I know where to go!

Some examples of photos that I’ve taken as ‘research’ photos to give me a sense of the space:

The way I photograph a location for my own reference is different than how I would want images from you. Panoramic photos will give me context. I cannot always shoot with the lake as a background. I will have to use artificial lighting to make you pop otherwise it will be a silhouette. These flash photos will only work with adults or kids over 10.

If you can also send me the information on direction of the sunset/sunrise that would be optimal. Otherwise, tell me what time the photo was taken (taking a photo between 11-1 will not give me any information since it’s just overhead). I use an app on location to give me a sense of the lighting of a location as well. These are just the everyday little things I do for planning and why you hired a professional, so please take my advice for planning purposes. Again, I ask for photos and timing so that I can help with information and planning. Sending photos randomly without context at noon will not give me any information. I really just have to make that clear so that I don’t come back to ask additional questions. I want this to be as easy as possible!

You don’t have to take any of these photoshoot location suggestions. These are merely a jumping-off point. I hope they will help you plan your socially distanced photo session. There’s no need to stress about finding the ‘perfect’ spot.

You can always just let me choose a location, but I do want families to know themselves. If you are easy-going then any location I pick will be great. If you know you only like manicured gardens then please don’t ‘trust me’ and be disappointed when I choose someplace more natural. I always ask people to verify the location is to their expectations before a session because I don’t want them to hate it. I love abandoned buildings, alleyways with graffiti, climbs up mountains, giant mud puddles. I also love modern architecture, clean lines and harsh shadow/light play. I would say that I typically only work 99% of the time in places NOT as described above (I’m at the Public Gardens 5 times a week typically). So be honest with yourself. I can make any place work.

When I first started, parents cared so much about locations and drove 45 minutes to a spot only to have their toddler meltdown because of the distance traveled. The session isn’t up to us. If you have older children, then we can head further out of town. Just know your children.

Things to keep in mind include parking, when parking lots open, permits and fees related to shooting locations and closures due to construction, COVID-19 or pests (such as horseflies at Crane beach). Washrooms are also something to keep in mind as many places are closed and personally I am avoiding public washrooms.

For at home sessions, I ask for panoramic photos and a questionnaire to be filled out asking what your favourite aspects are of your yard (and areas to avoid). This will all be sent to you when you book your photo session.

There are a tonne of other locations I’ve photographed at, but this blog post is getting a bit lengthy. If there’s some place else you’d like me to cover in this post please reach out and I’ll dig up some examples.

I hope this list helps you find the best locations for your photoshoots

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Engagement Session ideas

I love it when couples reach out to me with something a little out of the ordinary. When couples are connected to something and they share that joy and energy with me, it really inspires me to create something that’s uniquely theirs. I had such a great time photographing Lulu and Tim during this fun MIT engagement session.

When Lulu reached out to me about having a 2-hour walking session around Cambridge, starting at their favourite little coffee shop 1369 Coffee on Mass Ave and ending by the Charles River near MIT, I was sold. Lulu told me that they were moving away from the city they had called home for 8 years and wanted to document this special place before they moved to Washington, DC. Tim had actually moved to LA 3 years prior so they’ve been having a long-distance relationship ever since. She told me about all of the fond memories she had near Central Square. She gave me free rein to create and the only guidance she gave me was that she just wanted to walk around with Tim, have fun and take some interesting photos.

Meeting up

I never know what my couples look like before meeting up but I find that part of the fun of getting to know each other. Lulu, Tim and I decided to meet at 1369 and they were gracious enough to allow us permission to photograph on premises – thanks guys! Lulu knew them well and they didn’t hesitate to allow us to spend a few minutes there. These two were so sweet and funny from minute one. I knew we were going to have a fun 2 hours exploring Cambridge and MIT.

Engagement Session Outfits

Can I say how much I loved Lulu’s outfit? It had the perfect colours that matched the ambiance of the warm tones of the coffee shop, but also fit right in with graffiti alley. How did she plan it so well? Tim’s white shirt was a perfect reflector to add a beautiful light on their faces as well. I think they nailed it.

Cambridge City Hall Photo session

After the coffee shop, we popped next door to Cambridge City Hall to grab a few photos on the lawn. I love just observing couples and seeing how they interact naturally. I would have to say for these two I had to only give a few prompts and they ran with it.

Graffiti Alley photoshoot | Cambridge, MA

I’ve been trying fruitlessly to get more people to do urban photo sessions. This is the second time I’ve gotten to photograph here and I love it. There’s something about expression, chaos and bright colours that I just adore. Like everyone else, I can see the beauty in the Boston Public Gardens, but I guess maybe I’m there multiple times a week so I just get inspired when I get to work in new places. Don’t you just love the energy of this space?

MIT Fun Engagement Session

Our second last stop was MIT. We got here right at sunset and it was of course magnificent. The grand columns of the front steps and the courtyard around the back. MIT definitely has some of the best architecture in Cambridge, MA. If you want to check out another area of MIT, click to see this wedding I photographed in MIT HERE.

Charles River Sunset Engagement

The final spot on our 2 hour tour was The Charles River. We made it at dusk and I got to be a bit creative with my shutter drags. It’s not as easy as it looks because I had to wait for the right amount of cars to pass (not too few, not too many… just…right). The cars also had to not block the couple!

Boston Engagement Photography

I hope you’ll love the images we created during their 2 hour walking tour of Central Square. Best wishes Lulu and Tim for a lifetime of happiness in your new home town.

I hope you loved looking through their engagement session. I loved the playfulness and they were just so easy to photograph. Lulu and Tim played off my ideas and it helped me create some of my strongest images. I’m really proud of these and I hope you loved this fun engagement session too.

Sunset over Marblehead, MA

Fort Sewall provided the backdrop to this gorgeous and epic sunset engagement session. Don’t you just love it when everything comes together perfectly? A lot of my couples find me via word of mouth because they have heard great things and have seen my work. I never know what to expect when I meet someone for their engagement photos. Imagine my surprise when the picture-perfect couple with the nautically-inspired outfits came up to me in the parking lot. I love discovering new spots through my couples’ eyes. I get so inspired when I see a new spot for the first time. I hope you’ll enjoy looking through these breathtaking sunset engagement photos.

Katie and Charles chose this special location because Katie grew up nearby and it was her favourite place as a child. They are tying the knot nearby as well. I can’t wait to photograph their wedding. We had so much fun exploring the rocks during low tide. Everyone was taken by surprise when the tide came in so quickly! We were shooting for only 5-10 minutes on the rocks when we realized the sandy beach had turned into about a foot of water. We quickly scrambled off the rocks. Thank goodness I kept my backpack on my back. I was debating leaving it on the sandy floor so that I would be lighter on my feet climbing the rocks. Goodness! That would have been an expensive mistake.

Sunset Engagement Photos

Fort Sewall is located in Marblehead, MA by the seashore. There is an awesome tiny beach with rocks as well as an old historic fort about 5 minutes walk away. There’s a small parking lot for about 20 cars so it was easy to get to and find parking. Just know that traffic there after-work is awful! Google always tells you a time that you should multiply by two for when you’re actually travelling there. Something to keep in mind when planning a session there.

Look how happy Charles looked when we finally got off the rocks/water and onto solid ground. I’ll tell you, we were a little stressed out, but the photos were worth it!

More Sunset Engagement Photos

If you’re interested in seeing another sunset engagement, but this one a proposal, please take a look at this LINK.

If you’re interested in booking a Boston area sunset engagement session, please reach out. Currently, if you’re looking for both an engagement session and wedding coverage, I offer free mini engagement sessions so we get to know each other before the big day.

How to begin

You’ve found the right partner. Now’s the time to ask the question. This is a moment you never want to forget so you definitely want to hire a photographer to capture it so you can also share it with family and friends after the fact. I’ve been honoured to be chosen by several couples and they gave me insight into how they chose me, and what they were looking for when searching for a Boston proposal photographer. How do you find the right photographer? Where do you start to look for a photographer? By the end of this post, I hope I can shed some light on the criteria to look for when hiring the right photographer for your surprise proposal and engagement session.

5 Things to look for in a Boston proposal photographer

Shooting style

First things first: I would suggest looking for a photographer whose photography style you are drawn to. It’s a gut feeling. There are several different styles. Some are more classic photographers that get the moment and then some posed portraits afterward. Others are the more documentary-style photographers that approach it with a photojournalistic style. This includes the between-the-moments images so that the gallery tells the story and the complete picture of the event. This is less of a polished end look, but it tells the whole story. It really depends on what you’re looking for and what speaks to you as a person, as well as can capture you two as a couple. Go with your instinct when selecting a Boston proposal photographer.

Editing style

The second thing to look for is the editing style. There are light and airy photographers where the whites are really white (though ensure you don’t choose one where the skin looks washed out and it loses the detail of the features of the face, or the outfit). There are photographers that do dark and moody tones where things are purposely set really dark and the tones of the outfits should match this editing style. Then there are those that alter the skin tones.

I personally am not a huge fan of this style because we all know how we feel about sepia a couple of decades after the trend died. Just look back at your old Instagram posts. How do they stand up to the test of time today? Apply that to how you want to look back onto your photos 30 years from now and how you want them to feel. The photo below was actually how the sunset looked like in person. I wanted the vivid colours to stay true so that they could hold onto that memory forever.

Personally, I tend to gravitate to true colours that are natural. I used to follow the trend and hated my photos after a few months and kept changing my style to follow the style of the moment. After a few years of this, I became exhausted and decided natural was best. I don’t want my photos to look signature 2015, or 2019. I want them to be timeless. That’s what I looked for in my wedding photographer back in the day, and I still love my photos to this day. If that is what you’re looking for, I hope you’ll reach out to me.

Expectations for the number of images

Any professional photographer will know how many images it will take to tell your story. You just have to ensure your vision aligns with the photographer you have chosen. This is something that should be discussed with the photographer if you had something in mind. I emphasize communication is key. I do not guarantee a specific number of images with my packages just because I do not understand how something will unfold. With candid storytelling, there is an element of surprise with things out of our control. Just know that I am there to capture your truth and your story to the best of my ability. I have never had a client ask for additional images and I aim to delight and please with every single one of my sessions. There is a reason why I have built such a successful business with so many glowing reviews.

Discretion

The reason you should hire a professional and not ask a friend is that your fiancee/fiance may become suspicious if they recognize the mutual friend. A friend that isn’t a professional may not have the right equipment for the job. In this sunset proposal, I used a very long zoom lens. This allowed me to be 50 m away from the scene, but also pull everything that was important into the frame. If you are shooting with a kit lens that comes as a default, you are limited by the distance you can shoot at and still get a great image that puts you in the action.

If your photographer uses flash, that is also something that in my opinion would be a no-no. Unless the proposal takes place during pitch black settings, flash would be a dead giveaway and also be distracting to the moment. My style is to rely on natural ambient light that is available by discussions with you to ensure you choose a location that would work well with photography. As a photographer in the city for over 7 years, I am very familiar with locations as well as unexpected variables that may pop up that a less experienced photographer may not anticipate. This brings us to my final point: Experience.

Experience of your Boston proposal photographer

Depending on where you’re planning to propose, a photographer should be familiar with the conditions of the location. That doesn’t mean that the photographer has to advance scout or have photographed there, but it does mean you should hire someone that has photographed in a densely populated area before.

When I first started photography there were certain things that I would not be aware of when taking the photo, only seeing in editing that I should have avoided. These items included having garbage cans in the background, not cropping images to eliminate unsightly signage, or not anticipating the crossing of elements such as pedestrians or buses that may block a critical moment. When I photograph, I always have an awareness of the background, surrounding elements and constantly am anticipating movement that may affect my photo. It comes from years of training through the photographing of sprinting children and manoeuvring around tourists in the Public Gardens. There are no do-overs.

Things I have learned by being a Boston proposal photographer

One big thing is that I should ask for a photo of the couple. I find it awkward to ask for a photo of people ahead of time for my regular sessions as I can usually pick them out as they arrive just by reading body language. However, with a surprise proposal, I am not getting the same queues I normally would. If you’re planning on asking, I would love if you would share a recent snapshot so I know who to keep an eye out for. It was funny when I accidentally started stalking the wrong couple before my other couple arrived. Good thing I bailed on that first couple in time when I realized it wasn’t the exact fit (outfit descriptions were a touch off)!

I love giving my couples a moment to be alone. It’s their time. I do the same thing when I am a wedding photographer and the ceremony has just ended. Sometimes you just need to let a moment sink in. I love to just wait by the sidelines until I get a signal to approach. It’s not my moment so I never make it about the photos.

Couples love getting a few sneak peeks right away to share the good news with family and friends. After the session, I immediately head home to backup the images and load them onto my computer. I send 5-10 teaser images within 24 hours of the proposal so they can share the excitement. I love delighting my couples with a first look. It’s always better than they could have imagined and I am always so proud to share. The entire gallery is done in about 2-3 weeks from the session date depending on the workload of the season. If you need a timeline guarantee, please reach out to discuss this when booking and I can see what’s possible.

Found the right Photographer?

I hope I’ve helped to shed some light when searching for a Boston proposal photographer. There are a lot of things to consider. If my style aligns with your vision, please reach out via my contact form.

I’ll leave you with some samples of surprise proposals taken around the city of Boston. If you have any questions, feel free to post below or reach out. I monitor my blog regularly for questions.

My current wedding package includes a mini-engagement session. If you decide to hire me for your big day, I will credit a portion of this session toward your package if you book within 3 months of your proposal.

Fan Pier Surprise Proposal as featured on The Knot – How they asked : HERE

Charles River Sunset Surprise Proposal: HERE

Looking for a Boston proposal photographer

Carter reached out to me about a week before he was set to propose to his girlfriend. He knew he wanted a Charles River Sunset proposal. He found me via Yelp and apparently great things were being said about me and my services. If you would like to see other reviews, please check out what wonderful couples have said about me on Google Business, or The Knot.

Carter was very certain he wanted someone that could handle candid moments when searching for a Boston proposal photographer. He asked for samples of “unscripted” moments as he knew he already loved my style of rich colours that were true to life. I sent him several examples since I’m a child photographer. There is no such thing as a scripted moment when working with kids. You have to move quickly and think fast. You have to keep an eye out for the light, the background and the composition. I also sent a gallery of a wedding so he saw how I would photograph a day since it would be comprised of scripted and unscripted moments.

There is so much to consider when searching for a surprise proposal photographer and I’m glad Carter knew what he was looking for and asked the right questions. The work I sent him sealed the deal.

The Charles River

The Esplanade along the Charles River provided the backdrop for this sunset surprise proposal and engagement session. We really lucked out that day with the most stunning weather and light. Carter really knew how to pick the date.

The surprise proposal

After several emails back and forth planning the big day, it was time. We finalized the details and the timing of when they would arrive at the Esplanade along the Charles River. I had a vague description of a jacket and a dress on them. I didn’t have a photo to work with but going forward I think that would help me identify the couple. Before Carter arrived with his fiancee, I actually mistakenly started stalking another couple that matched his description. Thankfully I didn’t get the right queues from them and went back to my hiding spot before Carter and his girlfriend arrived!

The proposal photos

When they finally came into view on the bridge I started to capture the process. The story begins for me before the actual proposal. I love to provide the context of the day. This way, their family and friends can relive that moment when the images are shared.

They passed me and Carter headed toward the waterfront. I waited to see where he would set up shop so that I could choose the best location to capture the moment without being obtrusive. I used a long lens, meaning I was photographing the moment from over 20 meters away but it didn’t look as removed in the images. This way I didn’t intrude on the moment and they were free to be who they were and react however they wanted.

I love the runner crossing into the image because it gives a sense of place. If you’ve ever been to the Charles River, you know that it’s absolutely flooded by runners and bikers during the warmer months.

Angling to make sure my view wouldn’t be obscured I had a few seconds to decide how to shoot this. And then the moment happened.

A new perspective of the proposal

This is where I started to get a bit closer to get a new angle and a different perspective.

After I was noticed, I was invited into the moment. I introduced myself and congratulated the newly engaged couple. Now it was time to move into the engagement session portion of the session.

The Engagement photo session

I love to do a mini posed engagement session after the proposal since the proposal is super short usually, and the images can be used for saved the dates and replace a standalone engagement session. Something to note is that I include a complimentary engagement session with my wedding packages, so do reach out for details if you are in the market for my wedding services.

That light! It was golden and just made the moment incredibly magical.

Including the family

Sarah wanted to share the happy news with her family immediately. This sequence is one of my favourites because they are just being so natural and present. This is who they are as a couple. Nothing scripted. A session doesn’t have to be about a million poses. I love my couples to direct and lead a session. It takes a lot of pressure off of me and allows me to do my best work.

The family were so excited to hear about the couple’s Charles River Sunset proposal.

I never pressure couples for more photos, or poses of any type. I fall into storytelling mode when a couple expresses their desire to end the posed portrait section. This way every session turns out differently for each couple. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Esplanade sunset surprise proposal

Boston and Mother Nature were really showing off that evening for this Charles River Sunset proposal. We were blessed with the most stunning sunset. I photograph outdoors several times a week and I would say we get gorgeous sunsets maybe 20 times a year. If even that many. I definitely tell my couples not to expect this.

Then it was time to say our goodbyes. The happy and newly engaged couple had dinner reservations that evening. I’m so thankful that they chose me to document this incredible moment in their life story. Congratulations Carter and Sarah.

Other Surprise Sunset Proposals

Check out this LINK to see a sunset proposal that took place at Fan Pier in the Seaport District of Boston. It was featured on How They Asked by The Knot

Seaport District Boston Surprise Proposal

Boston City Hall Elopement

A related post can be found in this LINK for a Boston City Hall Intimate Elopement. It was featured on the Blog What If We Elope. Check out this great blog for tips on Elopements!

Pricing for surprise proposal

For information on pricing, please head to my wedding website: https://bellawangphotography.com/weddings

Specific Pricing Link: https://bellawangphotography.com/engagement-and-proposal-services

Binh & Thuha chose me as their wedding photographer and I feel like the luckiest photographer because I have the absolute BEST couples to work with. Right from the beginning stages of planning Thuha was kind, sweet and extremely communicative. She also helps run a great flower show called Petals on Petals in Boston. If you’re in need of some great arrangements for your own wedding, event or special day, do check them out.

The Fens, Boston

We chose the Fens because Thuha wanted something outdoors, and spring-like. I had a session earlier in the day just down the road at a client home and thought immediately of the beautifully landscaped grounds of The Fens and the gardens planted all around. It would provide a perfect setting for a sunset engagement. Thuha was very easy going and trusted my suggestion. She was even inspired after reading my session tips and guidelines to get this gorgeous dress that I think really made the session and location pop.

The Engagement Photos

Seriously these guys were so much fun to spend an hour with. The sun was perfect that evening. I hope you will enjoy their images.

To see a surprise proposal please CLICK HERE.

Photography by Boston Engagement and Wedding Photographer Bella Wang Photography

How they found me

For his Boston surprise proposal, Patrick found me through his sister. I had photographed her adorable family a few years prior. His sister’s family had moved away a couple of years ago but kept looking back upon our images. I am always so flattered by the fact that my images are such keepsake mementos in people’s lives. People tend to find me through referrals and positive word of mouth. It’s always so rare when a photographer’s body of work matches their portfolio. I’m so proud that people keep coming back for more because I deliver.

So when it was time to propose to his girlfriend, Patrick knew who to reach out to. We chatted over the phone prior to the surprise proposal to set a date and time when this was going to unfold. He told me a bit about her style and their story. Most of the time I work just off people’s descriptions of themselves, as I rarely ask for photos ahead of time. I was excited to see this all unfold against the beautiful backdrop that the Boston skyline provided. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect engagement.

The proposal itself

I acted like a tourist taking photos because I had no idea what they looked like and I had no idea when they would be arriving. Patrick kept me updated that they were running a bit late but getting into their uber. It was game time. I saw the beautiful couple coming toward me and I tried to get into position to capture it all without drawing attention to myself. Kerri was so caught up in the moment that I was able to capture these images without her breaking eye contact with her beau. Now that’s love! Kerri said yes and I came over and congratulated them. This was a dream surprise proposal as all of the elements just came together perfectly. It was a cold Boston winter’s afternoon, but look at that glorious light.

We spent the next 25 minutes just wandering around the Pier and the Boston Children’s Museum area to just soak in the freshness of the proposal. She was so ecstatic and happy. I couldn’t have asked for a sweeter couple to capture this moment for.

Please enjoy their images.

Boston Proposal & Engagement

To see another Engagement Session please CLICK HERE.

For another proposal, please CLICK HERE.

These awesome folks were just featured on The Knot – How They Asked.

The location

I’m a Davis Square based photographer, so my complimentary included engagement session takes place near my home. I have no complaints that this gorgeous Tufts campus is right by my doorstep. M & T were an absolute joy to photograph. It was one of those rare days that had a mix of sun and clouds – absolutely perfect for some late afternoon engagement photos at Tufts University in Medford.

The Outfits

T has the most amazing style. She had two outfits and they both were amazing. I usually guide clients away from having two outfits as there isn’t really any place to change, also to really make two outfits work the choices have to say very different things to make an impact. In this case, she rocked a casual flowy off-the-shoulder top with jeans and also a lace mini dress. These two unique looks were set off by her gorgeous mane and perfect smile. M’s shirt also went well with our last location near the purple flowers, which was a happy accident.

Why do an engagement session?

I include a complimentary engagement session with all of my wedding photography packages because I believe in building trust in a relationship. This way you know exactly how things will be on your wedding day. You get to see how I work, interact with me as a person and also see a completed product. I also spend this time to coach you and train you to be mindful of bad habits or unflattering angles. This way, we just flow like pros on the wedding day.

Tufts Engagement Session Photos

To see another engagement session by Boston engagement and wedding photographer Bella Wang Photographer please CLICK HERE