A Beautiful Blue Mountains Proposal – Maria & Arif
There really is something pretty special about photographing a surprise proposal — particularly when everything comes together as perfectly as it did for Maria and Arif.
We had the most beautiful evening in the Blue Mountains. It was perfectly balmy, the skies were clear and the light was gorgeous — just what you hope for when you’ve been secretly planning such an important moment!
Arif had put so much thought into his proposal and managed to keep the whole thing a complete surprise from Maria.
And she really had no idea!
I was already in position when they arrived, ready to capture that moment when Maria realised exactly what was happening.
And, of course, she said YES!
From opposite sides of the world
I loved hearing a little of Maria and Arif’s story afterwards.
They met while studying at the University of Wollongong, having come from opposite sides of the world — Maria from Mexico and Arif from Bengal.
Somehow their paths crossed here in Australia and eventually brought them to this beautiful spot in the Blue Mountains, with Arif down on one knee asking Maria to marry him.
And then there was the ring!
Arif had chosen the most incredible emerald-cut ring with a sapphire underlay. It was so unusual and absolutely beautiful — and very worthy of a few photographs of its own.
The best part comes after the surprise
Once the proposal was over and Maria knew I was there, we could relax and have some fun.
This is one of my favourite parts of photographing proposals.
All those nerves leading up to the big question suddenly disappear and are replaced with this wonderful mixture of excitement, relief and “Oh my goodness, we’re engaged!”
Maria and Arif were an absolute joy to photograph. There were so many giggles, so much happiness and lots of those little moments between them that you simply can’t manufacture.
We spent the rest of the session taking advantage of the beautiful evening and creating some relaxed photographs of the two of them — now officially engaged!
From different continents, to meeting at university, to this one very special moment in the Blue Mountains.
Congratulations Maria and Arif. Wishing you both a lifetime of love, adventure and plenty more fun together. 🤍
Thinking about proposing in the Blue Mountains?
If you’re secretly planning your own Blue Mountains proposal, I’d love to help you capture it.
I can help with choosing a beautiful location, the best time of day and working out exactly where you need to stand so I can photograph the moment without giving away the surprise.
Try calling me — you might catch me at the perfect time for a chat — or you can book a call for a time that suits you.
If you’d rather I contact you, simply send through an enquiry. I will usually email or text first during business hours so we can arrange a time to talk when your partner isn’t around.
Because the last thing we want to do is spoil the surprise!
