A Sunset and Moonrise Engagement Session

I never thought that anything could top a surprise proposal at sunset on the water, but this recent session has proven me wrong. I recently had the pleasure of photographing the most adorable couple for a secret engagement at the Bayshore Marina and we had what was arguably the most perfect night for photos. The session took place on a crystal clear 84 degree September evening and as the sun was setting, the moon was also rising. It was one of those rare evenings when the full moon appeared brightly in the sky exactly as the sun was setting. I am not sure that anything can ever top this evening because I am pretty sure that moonlit engagement photos are the epitome of romance.

My client went to great lengths to surprise his beautiful girlfriend with this proposal. He planned to ask her the big question on the day of his birthday celebration dinner at Nicky’s on the Bay in Bayshore. The plan was to take a walk in the marina prior to their dinner, which is a place they frequent as a couple. This is a great plan for a multitude of reasons, but mostly because it is something that seems typical to their routine as a couple.

My client took a walk on the pier with his girlfriend and his parents, who casually stepped back so he could have a moment alone with his girlfriend to propose. I say with the utmost of confidence that his girlfriend was truly surprised. She was in shock and so filled with joy that I found it difficult to hold back my own tears, which I am known to shed at proposals.

After she sad yes, the rest of the family came rushing in out of hiding to congratulate the couple. We took some family photos and they spent some time congratulating the couple and then it was time to head off with the newly engaged couple to capture some engagement photos. Because it was such a gorgeous night, I wanted to make sure I was able to capture images of them in the spectacular sunset that was emerging.

We started off with some images on the jetty while the sun was setting over the Great South Bay and there was a view of the Robert Moses Bridge in the background. We then took a handful of playful images in the sand and made our way over to the small beach to jump in the water for a few captures. If there is any body of water near us for an engagement session, I always encourage my couples to get in the water. It is always worth getting wet and sandy because these images are often the most romantic from a session. I usually tell my clients to pack change of clothes for both of them and hide them discreetly in the trunk of the car. Most clients head out to celebrate after a session, so it is helpful to have those backup garments on hand.

At this point, the sky turned pink and a gorgeous full moon appeared. I had to makes sure that I captured plenty of images of this couple in the moonlight. We took some photos on the dock during which time I was submerged waist deep in the seaweed filled water. It was completely worth it because I love the images. We then moved on to a prosecco pop and toast and then I bid the couple farewell so they could celebrate with family and friends.

I loved every second of this session. Here are a few of my favorites from the evening with this spectacular couple.