Rocky Mountain National Park Proposal Photographer

A Surprise Proposal in Rocky Mountain National Park

Sarah and Kenji came all the way from Texas for a vacation in Estes Park, dreaming of the wild beauty only Rocky Mountain National Park can offer—and maybe just a few romantic photos to remember it by. What unfolded instead was a surprise proposal at Sprague Lake that none of us will ever forget. As a Colorado photographer who knows these trails like old friends, I helped guide them through a last-minute location pivot and witnessed one of the most heartfelt moments I’ve ever photographed. ✨

Sarah booked a session with me for their trip to Estes Park—dreamy Rocky Mountain vibes, romantic forest paths, snow-kissed peaks. Originally, we were aiming for Brainard Lake, one of my favorite tucked-away spots, but June in Colorado can still hold surprises of its own. When I scouted the area the day before, the gate was still locked. So we pivoted. Lucky for all of us, I’d been photographing a wedding the day before in Rocky Mountain National Park and had just spent time at Sprague Lake. I sent them some photos of the spot… and it was an immediate yes. So on June 11, we met at Sprague, not knowing just how special this evening would become.

Planning Around Nature’s Curveballs

Mountain sessions always come with a little “choose your own adventure” energy. But one of the biggest gifts I bring to the table is that I know these spots—where to go when Plan A is iced over, how to adjust when the weather turns or the gates don’t open. I’m always scouting, always watching light, always tuning in.

For Sarah and Kenji, that flexibility turned into a blessing. Sprague Lake gave us peaceful trails, reflections on still water, views that stretched and shimmered. And it gave Kenji a quiet pocket to pull me aside, whispering that he had a ring burning a hole in his pocket and he was ready to propose.

Vacationing in Estes Park? Let’s Make It Magical

Sarah had no idea. Like—no idea. She even packed an outfit change and thought nothing of it. I’d only spoken with Kenji briefly during our video consult (yes, all my couples get one so we can vibe and prep!) but hadn’t had a moment alone with him until he grabbed me in the parking lot, heart pounding. While she was adjusting, we quickly made a game plan. I helped him pick the perfect spot, tucked just far enough into the trees with that iconic lake view behind them.

When it happened… whew. The surprise on her face. The tears. The laughter. The YES. It was raw and real and filled with all that big love energy that makes my job the best in the world.

Why Sprague Lake is Perfect for a Proposal

Want to know why this spot worked so beautifully? Here's what you need to know:

• No wedding permit required for photo sessions

• Easy trail loop = accessibility without sacrificing views

• Dreamy sunset light with water reflections + epic mountain views

• Close to Estes Park, so perfect for vacationers

• Bonus: it’s quiet, romantic, and feels tucked away

If you're planning a surprise proposal or engagement session in Colorado and don't know where to start, I’ve got you. This isn't just point-and-shoot photography. This is location scouting, timeline planning, emotional support, and storytelling.

Helping You Plan a Mountain Engagement Story

Here’s the thing about Rocky Mountain proposals: they’re intimate, personal, and yes—a little unpredictable. But when you’ve got someone by your side who knows the land, the light, and how to navigate the chaos with calm, the experience becomes unforgettable in the best way.

I help you choose the perfect spot. I guide you through the process. I capture the look on their face when they realize what’s happening. And I hold space for whatever unfolds after. Whether you’re dreaming of a surprise like Kenji’s or planning a mountaintop elopement with all the logistics dialed in, I’ve got your back.

Ready to Pop the Question in Colorado?

You don’t need to know every detail. You just need to know you love them, and you want the moment to feel like you. I’ll take care of the rest—from the permits (or lack thereof), to the Plan Bs, to the slow breath you take right before you drop to one knee.

Let’s create something wildly beautiful together.

Why an Engagement Session with Your Wedding Photographer Matters

When a couple reaches out to me to book me for their wedding, the first thing on my mind is, when can we meet? It is important for you to get to know your wedding photographer and you can do that by booking an engagement session with them too and that is just what Caroline and Tommy did. Your wedding photographer is spending quite a bit of time with you on your wedding day, it makes sense to make sure you vibe together well. An engagement session (along with pre wedding meetings) helps create a feeling of trust with your photographer and them with you.

For Tommy and Caroline, including Caroline’s son, Gabe, in their engagement session was something that meant a lot to the both of them. I get questions from clients often who book an engagement session asking if their children can join. My answer will always be yes! My own family is a blended family so I truly understand the feelings surrounding not leaving anyone out. Sometimes I hear worries of it being more of a family session and less of a celebration of your love. Please don’t worry about that part. It is easy to create space and time for your engagement photos as well as document the love you have for your whole family during our time together. I got you!

Tommy and Caroline, I get to hang out with you in just a few days to document your wedding day and I cannot be more excited. I thought it would be fitting to finally get this blog post and slideshow up for you to take in. See how beautiful you are, Caroline? I do. I see the love that both Tommy and Gabe have for you and it’s pretty damn good. See you soon?

Planning your wedding and looking for an engagement photographer? I would love to connect and see how I can help create memories with you and your love! From planning the session clothing to the location and everything in between, I am here to help. I wanna hang!