a surprise proposal = great valentines day weekend

I received an email earlier this week from James. Although I receive at least 100 emails a day, his stood out, as it was marked in the subject line “photography request – urgent!” He discovered me on theKnot.com, and stated that he was impressed with our work. Again, I was still very interested as I continued to read his email.

James wrote, “My girlfriend, Susan, and I met while both completing the MBA program at IU. She took a job in Washington DC as I have been finishing up my 2nd year. We have been in a long distance relationship for much of the year we’ve been together – but are so lucky to have found each other…it’s been worth every minute! As expected, we’ve spent a significant amount of time in airports, traveling to see each other, trading off weekend visits. She is flying into Indianapolis on this Friday and I will be proposing to her just outside the terminal (in the main public area). I would love to have photos of the proposal (obviously candid shots, nothing posed).”

I not only returned his email right away, and moved a few small things around since it was last minute, but I SMILED (ear to ear of course!) I seriously love photographing life changing events like this! This is why I LOVE what I do!

I received permission from the Communications & Media Relations Manager, Susan, at the Indianapolis International Airport (they have to contact law enforcement, their staff and security just for other photographers out there) and received my instructions from James. I arrived to meet James, also smiling from ear to ear (with his friend Matt.) He was so happy but nervous at the same time. Her flight at this time had been delayed twice, so I think that was adding to the anxiety (the good kind) not just in James, but also in me and Steven.

You see, they don’t announce which flight has landed – and all that you see is people walking through the gate. Each time, James would ask where they were coming from – and each time it was a different flight. This went on for about 5 flights and each time we would relax standing in place (as James paced nervously) wondering when she would appear. James asked that I do not start photographing her to where she could see me until he got down on one knee, as to not blow the surprise, so I had to stay tucked and I couldn’t see past the gate. I noticed a blur coming his way and started shooting. She literally RAN to him! Open arms! That in itself was sooo awesome to watch, really! Then I heard him take her hand and tell her how much he loves her, and then he got on his knee. I gave her about 2 seconds before I would be in her view, but she never even noticed me. She was surprised and SMILING ear to ear! Susan had absolutely no idea that he was about to propose. I, for the first time in a long time, actually started to tear up a little and had to hold it back! I also love the looks and smiles from all of the people that were passing by! James and Susan, your joy and love has sparked so many SMILES!

Because I am a photographer, not a writer, here is the slideshow of this wonderful moment that I am so honored that they allowed me to share with them! I still have the farm fuzzies!

To see the slide show with music:

http://www.iheartphotoart.com/#/james/