As an editorial photographer who specializes in capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments, I’ve had many clients hire me to be their DC proposal photographer to document their entire marriage proposal on film.

If you’re wanting to have photos taken when you propose to your partner in the nation’s capital but are unsure of where to begin, here are a few tips on how to plan, where to go, and how to work with a photographer to ensure everything goes smoothly. You can get inspiration from photos I took of Nathan and Kathleen’s proposal at Teddy Roosevelt Island and learn how we were able to make it all happen without any slip ups or spoilers.

Hiring a DC Proposal Photographer: The Basics

When you’re planning a marriage proposal in DC, hiring a photographer who specializes in editorial photography is key. Not only will they capture that “yes!” moment, but they’ll also know the best angles, lighting, and timing to get the most beautiful shots without being intrusive.

Things to consider when hiring a DC proposal photographer:

• Experience with proposals: Look for a photographer who has experience in surprise proposals. They’ll know how to work discreetly and how to deal with the logistics of a surprise event.
• Portfolio: Browse their portfolio to make sure their style leans toward a candid, documentary-style rather than a more staged, traditional style.
• Pre-proposal Consultation: Make sure you get a chance to express your vision of how you would like the proposal to go and any important details you want captured. Every situation is different so make sure they make you feel comfortable and will accommodate your requests.

For Nathan and Kathleen, I worked closely with Nathan beforehand to plan the perfect spot at Teddy Roosevelt Island and discussed how we could ensure the moment was perfectly timed. He sent over maps of the exact spot he was planning to kneel down and propose so I would know where to be. He wanted a location with natural beauty but also a sense of privacy, and Teddy Roosevelt Island offered the ideal balance of both.

How to Work with Your Photographer Before the Proposal

Here are a few tips for working together ahead of time:

• Location Scout: Schedule a location consultation or do a site visit to discuss the best spots and time of day for your proposal. In talking to Nathan beforehand, we decided to shoot in the quieter, less trafficked corners of the island to ensure privacy.
• The Big Reveal: Talk with your photographer about how they’ll remain inconspicuous. Whether that means shooting from a distance or blending in with a nearby group, your photographer should be able to work quietly to avoid spoiling the surprise. In this case, I hid behind some bushes until I spotted them walking up.
• Timing is Everything: I worked with Nathan to nail down the exact timing for the proposal. Your photographer will need to know when you plan to pop the question, so they can position themselves in the right place without being too obvious. If you plan to say a few words or get on one knee in a particular spot, let your photographer know in advance.

Here are some photos of Nathan kneeling down to propose to Kathleen and her reaction.

Once Kathleen said yes, we officially started doing engagement photos.

Top Proposal Spots in DC: The Best Hidden Gems

DC is certainly full of iconic landmarks, but sometimes those can be crowded or too busy for a personal proposal. Here are a few less-popular spots to consider for an intimate and scenic backdrop:

• Teddy Roosevelt Island: Nathan chose it because it’s a beautiful, natural setting right in the middle of the Potomac River, and it’s often less crowded than other DC parks. He proposed to Kathleen in the center by the statue and we also shot photos in some other quiet spots on the bridge with views of Georgetown and the water.
• The National Arboretum: Located in northeast DC, this botanical garden offers a tranquil and picturesque setting with beautiful flower gardens, trees, and wide open spaces.
• Meridian Hill Park: This park has a bit of everything—lovely fountains, marble steps, and plenty of greenery. It’s quieter during the weekdays, which makes it a good choice for a proposal.
• Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens: This is another hidden gem in DC, perfect for nature lovers. The calm pond and lush scenery provide a peaceful and unique setting for a proposal.
• The Dumbarton Oaks Gardens: A tucked-away treasure in Georgetown, these gardens feature beautiful flowers, terraced gardens, and stone pathways that can feel very private.

Tips for a Successful Proposal: What to Wear and How to Keep the Secret

The last thing you want on the big day is for your partner to suspect something, so here are a few tips for keeping the secret and ensuring everything goes off without a hitch:

• What to Wear: Comfort is key, but so is looking sharp. If you’re in a formal location like a fancy hotel, consider dressing up. If your partner thinks you’re going to dinner, then the dressy attire will be expected. However, if you’re heading to a more casual or natural location like Roosevelt Island, smart casual attire works well. Just be sure you’ll feel comfortable enough to move around, sit, or walk without too much fuss. Try and discreetly mention to your partner that it might not be good to wear heels because you’re planning to stroll around the park.
• How to Keep the Secret: Be discreet in your planning. If you’re bringing the ring to the proposal spot, keep it in a bag, not your pocket! If you have a friend or family member helping, let them know to stay out of view. If you’re going to a park or outdoor setting, it’s best to arrive a little early to check in with your photographer and get situated.
• Parking and Getting There: Parking can be tricky in some parts of DC, so be sure to scout out the best parking options ahead of time. Many parks offer parking lots, but if you’re proposing near a touristy location, consider taking public transportation or an Uber.

Picking the Right Moment

One of the most important aspects of your proposal is timing. I worked with Nathan and Kathleen to plan the perfect time at Teddy Roosevelt Island. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded, and the golden hour—just before sunset—offers the best lighting for photos.

If you’re doing the proposal at a location like the Lincoln Memorial or the Tidal Basin, I recommend avoiding peak tourist hours (midday to late afternoon) to get the quiet, intimate vibe you’re looking for.

Why Hiring a Proposal Photographer is Worth It

When Nathan proposed to Kathleen at Teddy Roosevelt Island, it was a quiet, perfect moment, and the photos I captured are priceless to them. They used their high resolution images and videos I provided them for a special engagement announcement party. Those candid, unscripted moments are what make proposals so special, and having a professional photographer to capture it all ensures that your memories are beautifully preserved for years to come. If a friend or family member shoots your proposal with a phone, the photos will be of lower resolution and might not be suitable for making larger enlargements like the ones you get from a professional photographer.

Are you planning your proposal in DC? Let me know your thoughts or questions, and I’d be happy to help you make this moment as special as it can be!