A surprise proposal in downtown Champaign, IL.

My associate photographer, Jess, and I planned this session for early fall in downtown Champaign without the help of her boyfriend, Mathew. But he had plans of his own. When we showed up, Mathew secretly showed me the ring as Jess was looking away, getting out of the truck. I had to contain every ounce of excitement that I had in that moment and quickly start making a plan, which was easier said than done!

But we got started with their session at Helms Park in downtown Champaign, IL. I set up a few possible shots for Mathew to make his move, whispering to him along the way, and nothing. Then finally, in front of this gorgeous waterfall, he got down on one knee. Queue the complete shock, tears, and laughter!

Just a little PSA for anyone wanting to surprise their significant other with a proposal at their session, maybe shoot me an email ahead of time. That way we can plan it a bit more. But despite the on-the-fly planning, we pulled it off. And just look at how AMAZING these two look!

Once she had that ring on her finger, we got to show it off. And with the early fall sunset light behind them it was the perfect evening for a surprise proposal!

I can guarantee this isn’t the last time you’ll be seeing these two, so stick around to see more!