I love photographing Long Island beach proposals.
And I have a lot of experience documenting them in all kinds of weather and seasons.
Most Long Islanders are beach lovers so proposing on the beach is a natural and logical location to choose to pop the question.
This photo was taken at Long Beach Town Park in Nissequogue on the North Shore.
This specific beach is a sentimental and meaningful location to this couple - so getting his girlfriend there was a plan that made sense thus retaining the element of surprise.
Furthermore, who doesn't love sunsets on the beach?
Proposing on the beach around sunset is romantic and bolsters your plan to get your sweetheart there with less suspicion.
Lastly, proposing around sunset offers the best lighting on the beach and makes for stunning photos.
Perhaps you have heard of the phrase "golden hour" or "magic hour" - that is referring to the hour before sunset.
That is the exact time of day that this proposal was photographed.
This is what I always recommend to avoid harsh unflattering light, shadows and squinting.
More photos from this surprise engagement can be seen here on my blog.
When I help my clients plan proposals on the beach - I draw them sketches so they know exactly where to walk and kneel for ideal lighting and as much privacy as possible.
Please be mindful to inquire with the beach of choice beforehand to confirm if you will need to obtain a parking pass as well as permission.
Whether you are a local resident or a non-resident you may need a permit for yourselves as well as for professional photography. I recommend confirming this in writing so as not to have your plans disrupted and possibly cancelled day of.
The beach locations in Montauk, the Hamptons and the North Fork are very popular as you can plan a special weekend getaway and stay at an airbnb, hotel or charming inn.
I have blogged several beach proposals on my site that can be viewed here.
If you and your sweetheart are beach lovers and you want to plan your surprise beach engagement, I would love to be your proposal photographer.
Please visit my contact page or text/call me at 631 - 747 -5645.
I will take the stress out of planning your proposal and I would love to artfully capture your special day and priceless reactions.
Location: 555 Long Beach Rd, St James, NY 11780.