Surprise Sunrise engagement

I cannot handle the sweetness of this session. Austin, a friend of mine, reached out with a plan to propose to his girlfriend, Brielle. Originally, we planned for a different location, but had to change it the morning of due to poor lighting (which was entirely my fault, as I had never shot a sunrise session before--this was definitely a learning moment).

Brielle was an unassuming trooper and went along with Austin's crazy shift in plans. She thought that Austin wanted to dress up and go read their Bibles + watch the sunrise together because she actually had that on her Birthday Bucket List (which was only a week or so prior to this session)... so she had no idea what Austin had up his sleeve!

They arrived at North Shore and sat along the beach, reading beside one another and enjoying the incredible view. A few moments after the sun rose, Austin took Brielle further down the beach, walking together hand-in-hand. He hugged her as they were enjoying the golden light pouring in across the water, then as she was facing the other way, he made his move and got down on one knee.

The excitement was real and Brielle was so surprised. To witness such a pivotal moment in someone's relationship is incredibly special.

Once they had a private moment after officially becoming engaged, they walked over and we had a short engagement session. I am so looking forward to witnessing these two tie the knot! 💛

Lead Photographer | Tara Zimmerman

Location | North Shore Beach