I’ve had the joy of knowing Ayshaly and Maximus for about a year now, so when Maximus reached out to me a little over a month ago asking what I charge for proposals, I already knew something special was coming. I adore photographing proposals—there’s nothing like the anticipation, the planning, and that perfectly raw moment of emotion. And on top of that, I knew just how ready Ayshaly was for him to pop the question. So of course, I was instantly excited.
Over the next few weeks, Maximus and I quietly planned his surprise. We talked through a few different ideas—everything from staging a “couples session” so I could set up the perfect shot, to something more private and intimate. Ultimately, he decided on a deeply personal moment, with me tucked away off to the side, hidden and waiting to capture the exact moment he asked the question. I was absolutely game.
When the day finally arrived, Maximus and I met early to scout the area we’d chosen. We walked through the plan, picked my hiding spot, and mapped out where he would bring her. After they arrived later that afternoon, he led her to a beautiful picnic he had set up—soft, romantic, completely and authentically them.
And shortly after settling in, with the sun dipping low and the moment settling perfectly around them, he took her hands… and asked the question she’s been waiting to hear.
Capturing their proposal was everything I love about photographing couples. The way she melts into laughter when he pulls her close, the way he looks at her like she’s the only person in the world—those tiny in-between moments are why proposals and weddings will forever be my favorite things to photograph. Their love is pure, joyful, and so beautifully effortless.
I feel so honored to have witnessed this moment in their story, and I can’t wait to see where love takes these two next.
