There is something so special about to getting the opportunity to capture a moment that someone will remember for the rest of their lives.

When I was contacted about photographing a surprise proposal at Ebey’s Landing on Whidbey Island, I was immediately excited! The couple was traveling to Whidbey Island and Ebey’s Landing was a place that held a special meaning to them.

To be honest, I had never photographed a surprise proposal before, so i would be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous.

They arrived to Ebey’s Landing about 45 minutes before sunset. It was October, and the sun was showing off.

Now, here comes one of my favorite parts.

I had brought my daughter along with me, and the two of us were waiting at the top of bluff for their arrival. Of course, we couldn’t just be standing there with my camera waiting for a couple to show up without looking suspicious.

So, we came up with a plan.

We pretended that we were doing a little photoshoot of her. As far as the bride to be knew, we were just two girls enjoying a beautiful October evening at Ebey’s Landing.

Little did she know , we were actually there for her.

When the moment finally came, I quietly turned my attention toward them and began photographing as he got down on one knee.

It was beautiful. The emotions, the happy tears, and the way they looked at each other.

And the best part - she had no idea I was even there for them - She thought I was a stranger.

After the excitement settled a little, we used the remaining golden light to capture the two of them together. The way they looked at each other, the happiness, and that gorgeous October sunset really set the tone for a beautiful photo session.

Looking at this gallery makes me smile.

This is what I love about photography.

It’s not just pretty pictures or beautiful sunsets. It’s about the storytelling - The nervous anticipation before a proposal, the overwhelming emotions and those tiny moments that happen so quickly, but deserve to be remembered forever.

I feel so incredible privileged that they trusted me to capture these moments.

Having my daughter there to share the experience made it even more special to me.