Planning the perfect Tasmanian proposal
I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph many Tasmanian proposals over the years and consider them to be such a joy to capture.
The range of emotions and facial expressions - in such a short amount of time - is something I find myself
unconsciously smiling away to while editing engagement galleries.
I’ve teamed up with the talented El at Propose Tasmania who can also offer full curation of your proposal vision!
Tasmanian Proposal Locations
Some of the more regular proposal photography requests that I get are at 1 of 3 locations
- Bay of Fires -
- Cradle Mountain -
- Freycinet Peninsular -
Bay of Fires
Benefits
- No added travel costs
- Predictable and mostly sunny weather.
- Lots of quiet coves to find privacy, even in summer.
- Able to offer flexibility on timing due to my proximity (for example if you decide last minute to make it a sunrise proposal etc) .
-Iconic Tasmanian backdrop with those burnt orange lichen covered rocks.
- Easy to setup a picnic via Propose Tasmania
Cradle Mountain
I love capturing proposals and elopements at Cradle mountain
but I think there’s some vital information that couples should be aware of. You can find more information at my Cradle Mountain guide.
Benefits
- Get to see one of Tasmania’s most iconic landmarks.
- When the weather is right, and early in the morning the mountain absolutely turns it on.
- Tons of wildlife.
- Due to the high number of tourists it’s easy for me to blend in as your photographer.
Freycinet Peninsula
Is somewhat of a combination of the above two, you can have your mountains and the coast all in the same spectacular setting. That’s why I personally chose to get married here (blog on that one to come).
Benefits
- Is on the East Coasts must-checkout itinerary.
- Much less isolated than Cradle mountain (still has access to coffee shops, restaurants etc).
- Has one of my favourite short hikes (Mt Amos).
- An abundance of idyllic bays and coves to explore.
- If you’d like to explore more of the Freycinet area you can do so here.
The Logistics of Your Dream Tasmanian Proposal
Once you’ve decided on a location, next is how it’s all going to come together logistically.
What’s worked great in the past is one of two options.
If you have something else in mind I’d love to hear.
Option 1 -
I use a long lens to capture the magic from a distance. I’ll be in a predetermined location, leaving you to enjoy the moment and relish in knowing all of the emotions will be captured to be enjoyed again and again.
Unless requested otherwise I’ll prioritise tight shots that’ll highlight the reaction. Then come and congratulate you both and capture all the good vibes! More photos of this proposal here.
Option 2 -
I play the camera carrying tourist and you ask me to take a photo of you both on your phone.
You take a knee as I switch out your phone for my camera.
This method is a little bit more involved than the previous but is totally your choice.
Positioning
I know you’ll have a lot to be thinking of, so I don’t want to overwhelm the process, but…
As you can see in the above two images, one is mostly her face and one mostly his.
Both wholesome and a fond reflection but I’d recommend prioritising your partners reaction.
This is an example of the kind of map I’ll sketch up (this one is Skeleton Bay Reserve, Bay of Fires).
In this example when you enter the beach I’ll be to your left.
I’d recommend walking down the beach a short distance holding hands before turning your partner around to face you (and inadvertently me) before you propose.
Why Proposal Photos Are The Best
There are so many positive emotions and reactions on display during a proposal photoshoot.
Emotions and reactions that are difficult to recreate during a couples shoot.
These make for great photos and allow you to relive how excited and loved up you both felt.
Tasmanian Made Engagement and Wedding Rings
In the off chance that you don’t already have a ring picked out,
and would like to take advantage of some incredibly talented Tasmanian small businesses.
I strongly recommend checking out these guys,
- Des Gray -
- Refraction Gems -
What Time of Day is Best to Propose
If your planning allows I’d strongly recommend early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
These times of day give images a softer, warmer light which looks great in photos.
While still beautiful, mid-day sun is usually a bit harsher with more contrast in your proposal images.
After your proposal I’ll take a bunch more photos of you both in shade etc to lessen the high contrast.
Additional Notes to Consider
- Cradle Mountain and the Dove Lave Viewing Shelter is strictly shuttlebus access after 8am.
- There is no phone signal inside the Cradle Mountain area.
For a 1 hour photo shoot I’ll deliver approx 60 edited images
If you’re currently planning a Tasmanian proposal and would like photographs I’d love to help out!
You can get in touch here.
