In this Scottish proposal photography story, the surprise proposal isn’t what you think!
Rez contacted me in July, to plan a surprise proposal photography session in Scotland. He was planning a trip with his girlfriend, Lydia, and wanted to surprise her at the beginning of their holiday by asking her to marry him. Rez asked me to be his photographer for his proposal at Loch Lomond.
Planning a Scottish Proposal Photography Session
We chatted over a Zoom call about the possibilities for their Scottish proposal photography session. His trip was scheduled for August, and we wanted to find a location for his proposal that was rural and not too busy. There aren’t many couples who love being the centre of attention, and while they might enjoy having a proposal photographer present, they don’t necessarily want a larger audience.
August, however, is still peak tourist season in Scotland. We chatted about the location ideas: up hills; on beaches; somewhere at the foot of a hill; or an iconic location. And then I came up with the suggestion of this wonderful hidden gem – the island of Inchcailloch. The more we discussed it, the more Rez felt this was the perfect place for them. It was accessible by a small passenger ferry, and they could take a picnic and enjoy a little wilderness exploring. Planning your Scottish proposal is as much a part of the work as the actual photography itself.
We talked about how we would orchestrate everything. While these sessions are fairly candid, there’s a fair bit of planning involved. I think what makes them slightly trickier is that, unlike most photography sessions, you have a wildcard in the mix: one person who doesn’t know what’s going to happen!
Enter: Lydia.
The Proposal at Loch Lomond
One of the biggest questions I’m often asked is whether people have said no! Well, in my experience, most of my couples have discussed it beforehand. A proposal is expected, but it’s more when rather than if. Rez and Lydia had discussed it. They had picked a ring. But Rez was waiting for the perfect moment to present it to Lydia.
The surprise was when.
I arrived ahead of Rez and Lydia. It was a gorgeous summer day in August, the sun was shining the weather was perfect. I’ve photographed a few times on Inchcailloch before, and had taken my children earlier in the month for a special adventure before the end of the school holidays.
Inevitably, getting the exact timing is a little more tricky! I waited for Rez and Lydia to arrive. In the meantime, I had mild panic as a group showed up, planning on some wild swimming and a picnic a few metres away from the spot we had picked. It’s a tough predicament! On the one hand, people have a right to be wherever they want. On the other… weeks of planning, and then it can be spontaneously spoiled by someone wandering into the spot!
But, the joy of experience teaches me how to deal with this.
By the time Rez and Lydia arrived on the ferry, the wild swimming picnickers had moved on. Rez took Lydia to the quiet spot on the Loch Lomond beach we had planned for their proposal photography session. He said he wanted to take a photo on his phone, Lydia turned away… when she turned round, Rez was down on one knee.
Surprise Proposal Photographs on Inchcailloch Island
My favourite part about being a proposal photographer in Scotland for these sessions? The joy. It’s so pure, so honest, so real and authentic. There’s no hamming it up for a camera. No cheese. Just happiness.
Rez and Lydia were basking in both the sunshine and that glow of love. As a photographer in Scotland it’s that same glow I see in newlyweds after their wedding ceremony. It’s so undiluted. The connection between you when you agree to a proposal and when you then finalise the promise with a vow… it’s beautiful.
We explored the island, heading up to the summit for a stunning view across Loch Lomond.
Then came a surprise.
Lydia had a ring for Rez. One he didn’t know about. She gave it to him during this trip.
35mm Film Proposal Photographer in Scotland
Alongside digital, I also shot some beautiful 35mm film for this proposal photography session in Scotland. I love the mix of film and digital, as I think it brings a beautiful additional depth to these proposal photographs at Loch Lomond. I think it’s a beautiful way to add some texture to the story. I loved how the analogue film photographs turned out for this Scottish proposal! As a digital and film photographer in Scotland, I think this adds something special to proposal photography sessions.
I love the tones and richness of the colour that 35mm film produces for proposal photography in Scotland. I think it adds an extra special layer to the experience.
Proposal Photography at Loch Lomond
Are you thinking of proposing to your beloved in Scotland? Do you like the idea of a proposal at a unique spot at Loch Lomond? I would love to chat to you more about your plans. Drop me a line, and let’s get some ideas to make your proposal special!