500+ 5 star reviews
Secret & Surprise Proposals
Hire a Proposal Photographer in NYC
Saying ‘yes’ in NYC: turn your proposal into a timeless memory
Have questions? Click here to email me directly
How to book
01: Browse Services
Check out my services page to see how I can capture your perfect moments!
02: Compare Prices
Check out my hourly rates. Enjoy competitive pricing among the top photographers in the city!
03: Book Online
Feel free to message me directly or book online to secure your spot immediately.
04: Photo Day!
I’ll guide you in selecting the best location and outfit ideas, and then we’ll meet for the shoot! It’s really that simple.
A portfolio to fall in love with
Proposal packages starting at $450
Includes:
Coordination and Planning for your Secret Proposal
Pre-shoot Consultation to Discuss Your Vision
A Professional with 10+ Years of Experience Shooting in New York City
Personalized location Scouting and Planning
Digital Gallery Access with All High-resolution Images
10 Edited & Retouched Photos
Full Gallery Delivered in 2-3 days
Edited Photos Delivered in 5-7 days
What’s Included In A Proposal Photography Session?
When you book a proposal photography session in NYC, you’re getting more than just pictures. You’re investing in peace of mind, expert coordination, and high-quality memories. While exact offerings may vary, here’s what most standard packages include:
- Planning assistance and coordination: Through text or email, your photographer will help you develop a plan that keeps the surprise intact while making sure everything runs smoothly.
- Discreet coverage of the proposal itself: This is often done from a hidden vantage point or by posing as a casual passerby.
- Post-proposal portraits: Once the surprise is over, you’ll have time for a relaxed engagement-style photo session.
- Delivery of all high-resolution images: You’ll get access to every moment captured, typically within 24–48 hours.
- A selection of fully edited photos: You’ll receive all the photos from your session, often hundreds, so you won’t miss a single moment. On top of that, you can select your favorite 5 images for professional retouching, ensuring your standout shots look their absolute best.
NYC Proposal Locations We Love
New York offers endless backdrops for an unforgettable proposal, from natural landscapes to dramatic cityscapes. The best location for your proposal often depends on your vision, crowd tolerance, and whether you want a private or public setting. Here are a few tried-and-true favorites.
Related: read our guide on the best NYC proposal spots
Summerhouse
Romantic, secluded & iconic skyline views nearby
Bow Bridge
The most iconic proposal spot in Central Park
Bethesda Terrace
Terrace & fountain are architectural marvels
Dumbo
Instagram worthy proposal with iconic bridge views
About Me
Hi, I’m Masha, the heart and soul behind Masha Lou Photography. With over 10 years of experience capturing the vibrant essence of New York City, I’ve dedicated my craft to immortalizing the love stories of couples. Whether it’s the tender moments of an engagement, the intimate excitement of an elopement, or the joyous surprise of a proposal, my passion lies in documenting these beautiful milestones.
I understand that choosing a photographer is a matter of trust. With me, you can be confident that your special moments are in experienced and caring hands. I take pride in delivering not just photos, but cherished memories that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your love story. Let’s create something beautiful together 🙂
Love in NYC: Photography Packages
Frequently Asked Questions
Popping the question is a big moment, and it deserves more than a phone selfie or blurry tourist shot. A professional photographer understands how to anticipate the proposal and stay hidden until the time is right, capturing genuine reactions and natural joy.
In a fast-paced and crowded city like New York, having someone experienced in surprise proposals can make all the difference. They’ll help you navigate foot traffic, manage timing, and find quieter pockets in even the most visited landmarks. At Masha Lou Photography, we go beyond to offer tips, posing help, and real-time coordination to help make your proposal seamless.
Most importantly, we preserve your once-in-a-lifetime moment in crisp, heartfelt images you’ll treasure forever.
A surprise proposal shoot is carefully planned in advance so everything goes smoothly and the moment stays truly magical. After you book your session, we’ll coordinate the exact location, timing, and setup. I’ll arrive early, blend into the surroundings like a passerby or tourist, and wait for your cue. Once you pop the question, I’ll capture every candid emotion—from the look of surprise to the moment you both say “yes.”
Most surprise proposal sessions last between 1 hour to 2 hours, depending on the package you choose. The first part captures the actual proposal and the immediate emotions, and the remaining time can be used for romantic portraits and lifestyle shots in the surrounding area.
Proposal photography packages in NYC can range from $400 to $1,000 or more, but pricing can vary depending on the package inclusions. My packages start at $450, which includes planning support, location recommendations, editing, and a digital gallery. I offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees—just beautiful memories captured with care.
The best lighting for photos is typically during or after golden hour—I usually recommend 2 to 3 hours after sunrise or the hour before sunset. These times offer soft, flattering light and fewer crowds in popular NYC spots. However, I’m flexible and can guide you based on your preferred location and lighting preferences.
Yes! I provide personalized location recommendations based on your vision. Some of the most popular NYC proposal spots include:
- Central Park (Bow Bridge, Bethesda Fountain, The Ramble)
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- DUMBO & Manhattan Bridge View
- Top of the Rock / Empire State Building
- and more
I’ll help you choose a location that’s romantic, scenic, and perfect for your proposal.
Absolutely. If you’d like to add extra time, an outfit change, or extend the session into a couples shoot or engagement session, I’ll build a custom package tailored to your preferences. Just reach out and let me know what you envision!
Yes! I specialize in secret proposal photography and have techniques to stay discreet until the right moment. Whether I’m pretending to be a tourist or hiding at a distance with a long lens, I’ll ensure the moment stays authentic and private until it’s time to reveal the camera.
You’ll receive your full high-resolution photo gallery within 1–5 business days. The package includes 5 retouched and edited images, and you’ll have the option to download the entire gallery at no extra cost.
If rain is in the forecast, we’ll plan ahead with a backup indoor or covered location, or you can opt to reschedule. I always prioritize your comfort and photo quality—rainy day shoots can even be incredibly romantic with the right setup.
If my schedule allows, I do accept last-minute bookings, especially if you’re visiting NYC on a short trip. Reach out as soon as possible and I’ll do my best to accommodate your request.
Absolutely. Love is love, and all couples are warmly welcomed and celebrated. I’m proud to offer a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free experience for everyone.
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 48 hours before your session to avoid a cancellation fee. The deposit is non-refundable but can be applied to a rescheduled session within 3 months.