Randy + Sophie’s Seattle Center Proposal

Although night portraits can be challenging, as a photographer it’s one of my favorite ways to get creative with lighting to really set the scene. So when Randy reached out to me about documenting a nighttime proposal in Seattle Center, we chatted about a unique plan and setup to make the setup romantic, while also allowing me to add some extra pops of light to document it all on camera well.

Randy’s plan was to have their families set up a spot outside by the International Fountain, where there’s a view of the Space Needle at night, while Randy and Sophie attended the ballet. While the fountain turns off before the ballet ended, the setting was still really lovely, especially with the twinkle lights in the trees at Seattle Center. On our planning call, I suggested they bring some battery-powered candles to add some extra light on the ground with the heart shape made of rose petals, and the family did a lovely job of putting it together even before I arrived. I added a couple extra flashes of my own a short distance away, which allowed me to document some really beautiful and emotional images in the dark.

Sophie’s younger sisters were so eager for them to get out of the ballet, and became so emotional after the big moment was over – so many group hugs and smiles!

And of course: we all practiced Leave No Trace by cleaning up all their candles and flower petals to leave the park clean of debris.

It was one truly romantic gesture, and although Sophie normally has a sixth sense for upcoming surprises, they all pulled it off without her expecting a thing! Truly such a fun night.