How to Plan an Unforgettable Proposal | Victoria BC Proposal Photographer
Before there’s a dress, a venue, or a guest list—there’s the moment. The one where your heart races, your palms might sweat just a little, and you ask the biggest question of your life. If you’re planning a proposal and want it to feel magical, meaningful, and worthy of the love you share, you’re in the right place.
As a professional Victoria BC proposal photographer and filmmaker, I’ve had the absolute joy of capturing countless proposals—each one unique, emotional, and deeply cinematic. And while every couple’s story is different, the most unforgettable proposals all have a few things in common.
This guide shares 6 tips to help you plan a proposal they’ll remember forever—with emotion, intention, and style. And if you want even more help pulling it off perfectly, be sure to grab my free resource: A Photographer’s Guide to the Perfect Proposal (linked below!).
1. Choose a Meaningful Proposal Location
Where you propose will set the entire tone of the moment. Whether it’s where you first met, your favourite weekend getaway spot, or a scenic overlook you’ve always dreamed about—pick a place that tells your story.
Some things to consider:
- Would your partner prefer something intimate? Or, a grand public moment?
- What matters to them? Do they love nature? Consider a forest trail or beach at golden hour. Do they feel most at home in the city? Maybe a rooftop or an intimate café. Choose a location that feels like you, and the photos will reflect that magic.
- If you are travelling, pick somewhere with a view that will take their breath away.
Photographer Tip: When clients book a proposal session with us, we often help scout and suggest breathtaking locations that not only look amazing on camera but also align with the emotional tone you’re aiming for.
2. Plan the Surprise Thoughtfully (With help from a Victoria BC Proposal Photographer!)
A great proposal doesn’t have to be over-the-top—but it does need to be thoughtful. Consider timing (sunset? sunrise?), distractions (or lack thereof), and whether you’d like close friends or family involved.
You might even plan a “normal” date that suddenly turns into the moment. Decoy plans, little white lies, and some coordination with a Victoria BC proposal photographer (that’s us!) can make the surprise feel seamless and cinematic.
How can you do this?
- Involve their friends in the planning. Have them create a cover story like a birthday dinner or a casual outing. Even though it’s a surprise, your partner will still want to look nice!
- Use an event you already have planned as the decoy.
- Plan a weekend getaway!
3. Ease Into the Moment for Real Emotion
Once you’re at the spot, your heart will be racing. Take a breath. Let the moment settle. You don’t need to jump straight into the big question. Hold their hand. Look around. Share a memory or a compliment. Create space for intimacy before you kneel.
Some tips on what to talk about:
- Talk about favourite memories from your relationship
- The moment you knew they were “the one”
- What do you look forward to in the future with them
- What you love most about them
These few seconds are where emotion builds. It’s also when the best candid photos happen—the anticipation, the joy, the realization.
4. Pick the Perfect Spot to Kneel (and get the best photos!)
Yes, this is a thing! If you want your photographer (or videographer) to capture the moment clearly, positioning matters. Backdrops, lighting, and angles can all elevate the visual story.
If we’re working together, we’ll gently help you pre-plan where to stand, which way to face, and even where the best light will be—all while keeping it natural and unnoticeable to your partner.
Photographer Tip: When you kneel, slow things down. Speak for 20-30 seconds while you get the ring out. You don’t want to rush things so that they are a blur after. Soak it all in.
5. Capture the Moment Like a Movie with a Proposal Photographer
This is one of the most emotionally charged, fleeting moments of your life. You deserve to remember it.
How to make sure you capture the moment?
- Set up your iPhone and pretend you are taking a video so it records the whole thing
- Have a friend come along and capture it
- Hire a professional Victoria BC proposal photographer because they know how to capture your unforgettable moment perfectly
Professional proposal photography (and film!) ensures that the expressions, laughter, and happy tears are documented forever. Our proposal packages include both discreet coverage and full storytelling—some even include film edits that feel like a scene from your favourite movie.
6. Celebrate in Style after the YES!
You did it! Now what? Plan a little celebration after the big YES.
Some ideas to do this:
- Popping champagne nearby
- Heading to a surprise dinner with family and friends
- Book a reservation at a romantic restaurant
- Plan an intimate getaway
Whatever works best for your moment of celebration, just make space to soak it all in.
Bonus? Our top-tier proposal package includes a same-day engagement session so you can capture the just-said-yes glow with cinematic portraits to match.
Or if you are looking for romantic engagement session inspiration for another time after the proposal, check out one of our favourite Vancouver Island engagement photo spots – Hatley Castle.
Want More Help? Grab Our Free Guide
We created A Photographer’s Guide to the Perfect Proposal to help you plan every detail of this once-in-a-lifetime moment. From choosing the perfect time and place to knowing what to say and how to capture it—this guide walks you through it all.
[Download the free guide here]
And if you’re looking for a Victoria BC proposal photographer and filmmaker to help bring your vision to life, we offer custom proposal packages with both photo and video.
We’re based on Vancouver Island, but available wherever your love story takes you.
Proposal Planning FAQ (Victoria BC & Vancouver Island)
Q: What’s the best time of year to propose on Vancouver Island?
A: Spring and fall offer dreamy golden light, lush greenery, and fewer crowds—perfect for a cinematic and romantic proposal. If you’re planning a surprise proposal, I’ll help you choose the ideal time and location based on season and lighting.
Q: Do you offer surprise proposal photography in Victoria BC?
A: Yes! As a trusted Victoria BC proposal photographer, I specialize in capturing surprise proposals with both photo and film. My team and I discreetly document every emotional moment—from the nervous lead-up to the heartfelt “yes”—so you can relive it all forever.
Q: Should I hire a photographer for my proposal or just the wedding?
A: Hiring a professional photographer for your proposal captures a once-in-a-lifetime moment that can never be recreated. Unlike weddings, proposals are often private and unexpected—making genuine reactions and emotion even more powerful to document. Plus, it builds trust and comfort with your photographer before the wedding day.
Q: Should I hire the same photographer for my proposal, engagement, and wedding?
A: Ideally, Yes—working with the same photographer across your love story creates comfort, consistency, and a beautifully cohesive visual style. From the proposal to the wedding day (and even future family sessions), I get to know you deeply—your personalities, your connection, and how to bring out the most authentic moments. When you trust your photographer, it shows in every frame. Many of my clients return for each chapter of their journey, and it’s an honour to capture their story full circle.
However, sometimes you have travelled for your proposal or wedding. In that case, look for photographers with similar styles. My style is more documentary, story telling, capturing the emotion of the moment.
Q: How do I keep the proposal a surprise while coordinating with a photographer?
A: I work closely with my clients to plan the perfect cover story—whether it’s a “casual couples shoot,” a fake dinner reservation, or a friend who helps with logistics. I provide timing, posing tips, and even location scouting so you can focus on the moment without stress.
Q: What are the best proposal spots on Vancouver Island?
A: From rugged beaches near Tofino to lush gardens in Victoria, Vancouver Island is full of breathtaking proposal locations. Some client favourites include: Mystic Beach, Beacon Hill Park, the Malahat SkyWalk, and intimate Airbnbs with ocean views. I help you pick the perfect spot based on your love story and vision.
Q: Can you help plan a proposal if I don’t live in Victoria or Vancouver Island?
A: Absolutely. Many clients travel here for a destination proposal. I offer planning support and vendor recommendations to make the process smooth—even from afar. Whether you’re local or flying in, I’ll make sure your moment is personalized and unforgettable.
Hayley Zumkeller Photography
Victoria BC proposal photographer | Vancouver Island Wedding Videographer
Proposal Sessions | Weddings | Engagements | Films That Feel Like Cinema
What It’s Like Working With Me
After your session, here’s what you can expect:
- Sneak peeks within 48 hours: I know you’re excited to see the photos (and post them!), so I always deliver a few favorite frames right away.
- Curated image gallery: You’ll receive a full online gallery of images to choose from—easy to download, share, and even order prints.
- Support every step of the way: From our first email to the moment you open your gallery, I’ll make sure you feel seen, celebrated, and cared for. I can provide location ideas, proposal tips and more!
Planning Your Own Perfect Proposal Session in Victoria BC
Hey, I’m Hayley. I’m a wedding, engagement and proposal photographer based in Victoria BC on Vancouver Island, and I specialize in capturing timeless, vibrant, connection-filled images for couples who want to remember how it all felt—not just how it looked.
If you’re planning a proposal and want it to be perfect, whether you live here or are travelling to Vancouver Island, and want images that reflect your love story in a way that feels relaxed, real, and beautiful—I’d love to chat.
My sessions are laid-back and fun, full of movement and laughter, and built around your unique energy as a couple. Whether you’re popping champagne, walking through the forest, or dancing barefoot on the beach, I’ll be there to capture the moments that matter most.
📍 Serving Victoria BC, the entire Vancouver Island coast, and the rest of the World
📸 See more of my work on Instagram @hayleyzumkellerphotography
📩 Ready to book your own engagement session? Click here to get in touch
