Michael reached out to me a few days before his proposal to help plan a surprise for Willow at Forest Park Beach.

The day was perfect. I found a spot where the sunlight was hitting just right and waited for them to arrive, following the plan we had worked out.

When Michael brought Willow to the spot, the sun was spotlighting the two of them. He got down on one knee and popped the question.

She had absolutely no idea.

Her genuine surprise and reaction were priceless. Those are the moments I love photographing most, when everything is real, and there’s nothing to direct.

If you’re planning a surprise proposal in Chicago, reach out. I’ll help you plan the details, share what I’ve learned from photographing proposals, and make the whole process smooth and easy.

And when the moment comes, I’ll be there quietly blending in like a ninja.