PROPOSAL GUIDE

With a portfolio of over 300 surprise proposals, I specialize in making your engagement seamless and unforgettable. I handle the logistics -the scouting, the lighting, and the discretion so the surprise remains perfect.

From the soft beauty of cherry blossoms and romantic rooftops to the breathtaking heights of Mount Fuji, I’ll help you plan a customized session that turns your big moment into a story you'll revisit for years to come. 💫

Proposals: Essential Tips for the Perfect Shot

1. Prioritize Facing the Camera

The moment happens fast! Positioning is key to ensuring I capture both of your expressions.

• The Angle: Try to stay profile-to-camera so no one’s back is blocking the view.

• The Priority: If the space is narrow, prioritize your partner’s face. I want to capture that raw "Yes!" reaction perfectly.

2. Manage the Crowd

Don’t feel pressured by people walking by. If the area is busy, take a deep breath and wait for a clear gap in the crowd. I will follow your lead, so don't rush—the moment is yours.

3. Stay on One Knee

The longer you stay down, the more opportunities I have to capture every angle and emotion. Take your time! This is also the perfect moment to deliver a short, heartfelt speech while you’re down there.

4. Watch for the "Hair Curtain"

When she looks down in surprise, her hair can often hide her face from the camera.

• The Fix: If her hair isn't already tucked back, gently tuck it behind her ears yourself. It’s a sweet, romantic gesture that also ensures her beautiful reaction isn't hidden.

5. Clear the Clutter

For the cleanest photos, avoid having bags or sunglasses in the frame.

• Storage: Use a locker if available.

• Personal Gear: If you must bring a bag, set it down out of the shot before you kneel.

• No Sunglasses: Make sure both of you have your sunglasses off so I can see your eyes!

6. Practice Makes Perfect

Kneeling isn't a "natural" daily pose, so give it a few dry runs!

• The Outfit: Practice in the clothes you plan to wear to ensure you can move comfortably.

• The Ring Box: Make sure you can reach it easily and practice opening it the right way up so the ring faces her (and the camera!).

I can’t wait to capture this magical moment for you and your partner!

Option 1: Fly on the Wall

Best for: Capturing a completely intimate, surprise moment without the partner ever knowing a photographer is there.

• The Setup: On the morning of the proposal, we will exchange selfies and descriptions via WhatsApp to identify each other and confirm timing.

• The Arrival: I will arrive 10 minutes early, blending in by taking photos of the scenery. Please message me 10min before you arrive; if the area is crowded, sharing your Live Location is highly recommended.

• The Cue: When you are ready, take a selfie with your partner. This is my signal that the moment is imminent and I need to get into final position.

• The Proposal: Turn to the side (one shoulder to the camera, one to the backdrop) and drop to one knee. Stay on your knee throughout the entire reaction until the ring is securely on their finger.

• The Reveal: I will capture the proposal and raw reactions from a distance before introducing myself to continue with your engagement portraits.

Option 2: The Friendly Tourist

Best for: Busy locations or when you want me to guarantee the perfect lighting and angle.

• The Setup: We will exchange selfies via WhatsApp that morning. I will arrive 10 minutes early and wait for you to reach the designated meeting spot.

• The Approach: Once you arrive, look for me. I (Ayako) will approach you and offer to take a photo of you both on your phone. Alternatively, I may introduce myself as a professional photographer and offer to take a high-res shot to airdrop it to you. Quickly agree!

• The Cue: I will position you in the exact spot for the best light and backdrop. When I am ready, I will say, "Please look this way!" while pointing away from you. This is your cue to reach for the ring and propose.

• The Proposal: Turn to the side and stay on your knee throughout the reaction. I will capture the moment up close and then transition into your full engagement session.

Option 3: The Vacation Shoot Cover

Best for: Reducing nerves! Your partner knows we are doing a shoot, but they don't know a proposal is coming.

• The Setup: We meet openly at the agreed start time to chat and get comfortable with each other. Your partner will think this is just a fun "vacation photo session."

• The Walk: We will take a few casual photos as we walk toward the proposal location. When we reach the ideal spot, I will say, "This location looks perfect!" to let you know we’ve arrived.

• The Cue: After a test shot, once the framing is perfect, I will say, "Please look this way!" while pointing away from you. This gives you the moment you need to get the ring ready.

• The Proposal: Turn to the side and stay on your knee until the "Yes!" is official and the ring is on. We will spend the rest of our time together celebrating with more engagement photos!

Important Reminder for All Strategies:

The Profile View: Always try to position yourself so you are profile-to-camera (one shoulder toward me). This ensures I can see both of your faces and reactions clearly!