Photographing a marriage proposal involves a significant amount of preparation and planning, but it is SO enjoyable to be able to witness and document such a powerfully emotional and joyous moment, and it is also a thrill to pull it off successfully! While a proposal in itself can be as simple or as elaborate as one wishes to make it, capturing this special moment forever in photographs does require a bit more thought be given as to the location, timing, and other factors. Ryan had been plotting this moment for quite a while, and even arranged for some family and friends to be present. After having breakfast in Algiers, the group went for a walk along the Mississippi River levee on their way to the ferry terminal. Because this was the Sunday before Mardi Gras, Lauren had no reason to be suspicious, as she thought they were just heading across the river for a day of parades and fun in New Orleans. And that was indeed the plan, but not without a stop first along the levee path in an area that was already sentimentally significant for their relationship and was about to become much more so. With Ryan and I having given much thought and planning as to the many variables, the proposal went off without a hitch, much to the delight of their friends and family along with a few bystanders who happened to witness it as well, and judging by Lauren’s reaction, it’s safe to say she was indeed taken completely by surprise. After she regained her composure from this beautiful moment, we had a quick little portrait session in the area, and then the group headed to the city to celebrate.
