Engagement Proposal Photographer Hoar Cross Hall

I was contacted by Megan back in July asking If I was available to photograph her proposal to her partner Shirley, at Hoar Cross Hall in Staffordshire. Having worked at Hoar Cross Hall before I know it’s such a beautiful venue with so many photo opportunities, and nice secluded locations perfect for this type of intimate occasion.

Engagement Photography at Hoar Cross Hall, Staffordshire

Thankfully I was free! From speaking with Megan over numerous emails I loved her plans to surprise Shirley, as you can imagine it’s such a special moment and preparation is key. Megan was keen to document the moment naturally and this was one of the reasons for contacting me, due to my photography style. Between us we decided that I would remain out of sight on the day of her proposal and break my cover after the initial proposal to capture all their natural expressions. This would allow me to document the natural unscripted feelings between them. From experience in photographing a good number of proposals, this is the best technique, remaining discrete is vital, even when the partner is walking towards the one proposing.

When the day arrived I was there nice and early to scout the grounds and find suitable locations where Megan and Shirley would feel comfortable. This is really important as I wanted Megan and Shirley not to be overlooked or distracted – we wanted to keep things natural. Hoar Cross Hall has so many quiet spots that aren’t overlooked, you really are spoilt for choice. The area I settled on was a woodland section with a long walk-in through a symmetrical treeline framing a gravel pathway, it was perfect! This walk gave me plenty of time to photograph Shirley walking towards Megan and all the expressions she would display. I shortly received a text message from Megan telling me that she was now in the garden and wanted to know my location.

Meeting Megan in person was lovely, after communicating solely through emails it was great to meet face-to-face 🙂 I could see Megan was a little nervous but keen to get prepped and see the location I had sourced and how things would play out. We chatted for a while, as Megan had paid for Shirley to have her nails manicured, giving her time to be ready in the garden.

Engagement Proposal Photographer

It was go-time!!! Megan dropped a pin on Whatsapp to tell Shirley that she was in the garden and to come and find her! We had a great line of sight to spot Shirley making her way to the secluded path we were now waiting on, Megan giggling as I moulded myself into a nearby hedge haha. I was poised shooting on a long lens, I got a glimpse of Shirley turning the corner, seeing Megan all dressed up and holding a bunch of flowers! It really was such a lovely moment – just that initial glance!!! I kept out of sight, capturing the proposal as it unfolded, Megan eventually dropped down to one knee and made her proposal which was followed by big smiles, hugs and kisses. I slowly moved in towards them as I could see that they were now talking and the private moment had passed. Then to my surprise and Megan’s, Shirley pulled out a box from her handbag and dropped to one knee to propose to Megan!!!!! Such a truly lovely moment that really caught Megan off guard. Thankfully I work with two cameras so I reached for my wider angle lens to document the second engagement proposal. They again exchanged hugs and words of love, with Shirley presenting Megan with a letter that she read out. Once M&S had spent plenty of time together I introduced myself to Shirley, who laughed as Megan explained everything. From here on in I thought it would be nice for them to head off for a small walk and take a seat on a nearby bench as there was still plenty to talk about between them. I just kept my distance and photographed them enjoying each other’s company amid the beautiful surroundings.

We moved around the grounds of Hoar Cross Hall, taking in some of the standout features that make this hotel and wedding venue so magical. I was aware that Megan had timed the photoshoot before they were due to sit down for dinner in the restaurant. The sun was starting to set and the garden and bottom field were looking very appealing. I managed to fly my drone here briefly to get another perspective showcasing the views and location better. Before I said farewell to Megan and Shirley there was time to take some pictures of them enjoying a cocktail before having a few games of garden chess.

My time spent with M&S had come to an end and I said goodbye and thanked them both for letting me into their lives briefly. I had such a lovely time with them and felt honoured to be involved. Megan and Shirley are two of the loveliest people you could meet and were such great fun to be around. A big heartfelt thank you to you both 🙂