I’ve shot a lot of proposals over the past 30 years. Some are elaborate, some are simple. This one was different because it felt real.

The setup was in their backyard. No big venue, no strangers watching. Just a space they’d set up themselves with family waiting inside.

What They Built

A stone fireplace with “MARRY ME” spelled out in marquee letters was the centerpiece. Big enough to read from across the yard.

White curtains hung on either side with greenery draped over the top. Fabric moved a little in the breeze, which actually helped—nothing looked stiff or staged.

On the ground, they’d laid out rose petals in the shape of a heart. Classic move, but it works. It gave him a clear spot to kneel and gave me a foreground element to work with.

The Details I Noticed

Before everything started, I walked the space to figure out my angles.

He had a handwritten letter. That stood out right away.

Most people just wing it or rehearse something verbally. He’d written it out. His hands were steady when he held it, but I could see him reading through the lines one more time. Making sure.

The celebration part was already set up off to the side—drinks and appetizers on white trays. Gold straws in the cocktails. Cucumber slices, berry garnishes. Someone had thought this through.

It wasn’t just about the proposal moment. They were planning for what came after.

Shooting the Proposal

I set up off to the side. Close enough to catch expressions, far enough to stay out of the moment.

He was holding the bouquet when I got this shot. You can see it in his face—he’s about to do something big.

When she walked in, everything shifted. Her eyes went to the sign first, then to him. That split-second—I caught it.

Hands went straight to her face. That’s the moment I’m always watching for—the initial reaction before anyone has time to think.

The ring went on, and she didn’t hesitate. Yes came quick and clear.

Then they kissed, and I moved to get the fireplace and sign in the frame behind them.

After the first few minutes, they came through the curtains. The energy was different now—lighter, more celebratory.

Why This Setup Worked

Backyard proposals give you control over everything.

No time limits. No worrying about who’s watching. Family can be nearby without being in the way.

For me as a photographer, it meant I could move freely and wasn’t competing with crowds or venue restrictions.

The Light

Golden hour in a backyard surrounded by trees? As good as natural light gets.

Sun filtered through the leaves. Soft, warm, no harsh shadows. I barely had to adjust.

Stone fireplace added texture. White curtains caught the light. Everything worked together without trying too hard.

We took a few minutes to do portraits while the light was still good. They stood in the rose petal heart, and I shot from above the fireplace steps.

What Makes a Good Backyard Proposal

If you’re planning this, here’s what I’ve learned from shooting them:

Pick your focal point. This one had the fireplace and sign. It gave the setup purpose and gave me a clear background to compose around.

Time it right. Golden hour is your friend. The hour before sunset gives you the best natural light. Plan accordingly.

Think about what comes next. The proposal is five minutes. The celebration is the rest of the evening. Have a plan for both.

Give your photographer space. I need to move around to get different angles. Make sure there’s room for that.

When Family Joined

After we got the couple shots, family came out.

You could hear them before you saw them—clapping from inside the house, then the door opening. The transition from private moment to family celebration happened naturally.

We did a family photo in front of the setup. Everyone was genuinely happy. Those are the photos that matter—not just the couple, but the people who’ve been part of their story.

The Final Shots

We wrapped with a few more portraits while we still had good light.

They were more relaxed now. Nerves were gone. They’d done it, and the relief showed in how they moved together.

Why I Like Shooting These

Backyard proposals aren’t about being flashy. They’re about making something meaningful in a space that matters to you.

This one worked because they thought it through. The setup, the timing, the details—it all came together.

And honestly, having family right there made it better. Not every moment needs to be just the two of you.

Planning a Proposal in Northern NJ, NYC, or the Hudson Valley?

I’m Alex Kaplan, and I’ve been photographing proposals and weddings across the tri-state area for over 30 years.

If you’re planning a proposal—whether it’s in your backyard, a park, a rooftop in the city, or anywhere else—I’d love to help you capture it.

Here’s what I bring:

• Experience anticipating the moments that matter before they happen
• A calm presence that lets you focus on each other, not the camera
• Natural, timeless photography that feels real, not staged

Your proposal will happen once. Make sure it’s documented the way it deserves.

Get in touch:

• Email: alex@alexkaplanweddings.com
• Website: alexkaplanweddings.com
• Instagram: @alexkaplan

I’m based in Northern New Jersey and available throughout Northern NJ, New York City, the Hudson Valley, and the entire tri-state area.

I’ll personally respond to every inquiry and would love to hear about what you’re planning.