St Augustine Family, Newborn & Proposal Photographer, Teresa Geraghty

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How to Create the Perfect Long Island Engagement Session

When clients contact me about planning a surprise proposal here on Long Island, NY it is an honor that I do not take lightly. Although I love standard engagement portrait sessions, a surprise proposal session requires extra attention and planning. These are very special sessions and near and dear to my heart. I want each one of them to be pure magic and perfection for my clients. My goal is to give each client an individualized experience and I make sure my calendar is not overbooked so I can do so.

When Proposing, Planning is Required

Sometimes my clients have a clear vision for their proposal and other times they can not articulate what exactly they are looking for. I work with each client to construct a plan, choose a location and whatever else they need to ensure that the big day is a success. I am not just the photographer, I am the planner as well.

Once the plan is selected, I meet with the client at the location and flush out all of the details that need to be addressed. I will assess the light, the crowd, the overall aesthetics and together we will choose the best spot for your session. When you leave the meeting, you will feel fully confident that the day will be perfect.

I will arrive ultra early on the day of the session and if there are kinks in your plan, I will fix them before you arrive and most of the time without you knowing there was ever a blip.

Location is Everything

The key to a successful engagement session is to choose a location that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but is one that can capture you authentically as a couple. If you are planning a surprise proposal, it has to be a place that is not suspicious and one you would likely visit together. Not sure where to schedule the session? No worries..I can help you figure that out.

Engagement Session at Robert Moses Lighthouse

It was such a pleasure to work with this sweet couple. They met in middle school, but started dating a few year later in high school. Is there anything sweeter than childhood sweethearts getting engaged? My client wanted a private beach location and because the got to Robert Moses together, he thought the lighthouse would be a great spot. I couldn’t agree more. The lighthouse is a stunning location that is perfect for any proposal or engagement session. He popped the question at a small private beach near the lighthouse and then we ventured out around the lighthouse for the engagement photos.

My client’s sister in law helped to prep the proposal site with a marry me sign and framed photos of the couple together. She and two of the couples’s best friends were hiding during the proposal and popped out at the end for an added surprise for the bride to be.

I absolutely loved this session. Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

If you are interested in a surprise proposal, engagement session or couples session, contact me.