Couple kissing beside a tall cedar tree

85mm · Engagements & proposals

Engagements & proposals

Close, soft and personal — a relaxed session that feels like a walk together.

Engagements

A session that feels like you.

Engagement sessions are a chance to celebrate where you are right now — and to get comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding.

We'll pick a place that means something to you, or one of Vancouver's gardens, beaches and forests. I'll guide you with easy prompts and catch everything in between.

Check your date

Couple holding hands on wooden garden stairs among ferns

Your place

A favourite park, beach, neighbourhood or trail — or I'll suggest a few spots.

Easy prompts

No stiff poses. Simple directions that lead to real laughs and real closeness.

Perfect for save-the-dates

Use the photos for announcements, your wedding website or simply your walls.

Surprise proposal at Bowen Lookout on Cypress Mountain: he kneels with the ring as she covers her face in surprise, Howe Sound behind them

From $200

Surprise proposals

Planning to pop the question? I'll stay out of sight until the moment happens — then capture their reaction, the ring and the first hug as fiancés.

We'll pick the spot and the timing together, and I can stay afterwards for a short celebration shoot while you're both glowing.

★★★★★
“Months prior to the proposal he helped me in many ways, helped with timing, outfit colours, location so many things I wouldn’t have thought about! We had the best time and I couldn’t be happier with the way the pics turned out!”
Jake G.Surprise proposal at Bowen Lookout · Google review

Plan a proposal Read the proposal guide →

Gallery

Engagements I've photographed

Full portfolio →

Investment

From $180

Engagement sessions from $180 and surprise proposals from $200 — both can be customized.

Ask for a quoteAll pricing

  • A relaxed session at a location you choose
  • Gentle direction and plenty of candid moments
  • Edited, high-resolution photos in an online gallery
  • Proposals: hidden coverage of the question and the reaction

Questions couples ask

What should we wear?

Comfortable outfits in soft, complementary colours work beautifully. See my guide to what to wear for engagement photos in Vancouver.

When is the best time for photos?

The hour or two before sunset gives the softest light. Spring blossoms and autumn colour are especially lovely in Vancouver.

How do surprise proposals work?

We agree on a spot and a signal. I stay hidden until you propose, then capture the moment and a few portraits afterwards.

Can we bring our dog?

Of course — just let me know in advance so we can plan the location.

5.0 on Google · 8 reviews

What clients say

★★★★★
“Joenell captured our engagement perfectly. He was easygoing, professional, and made the whole experience enjoyable. We absolutely love the photos and would gladly work with him again.”
Alexandria V.Engagement · Google review
★★★★★
“Joenell was fantastic in every aspect! I was looking for a photographer to capture my surprise proposal and im super glad to have found him! Joenell was so professional throughout the whole process! Months prior to the proposal he helped me in many ways, helped with timing, outfit colours, location so many things I wouldn’t have thought about! We had the best time and I couldn’t be happier with the way the pics turned out! I’d reccomend Joenell for any of your photography needs! Not only is he a great guy he’s a fantastic photographer!”
Jake G.Surprise proposal · Google review
★★★★★
“We had a great time shooting with Joe, he made the environment very comfortable. Loved the pictures as well and the turnaround time was fairly fast! Thank you Joe!!!!”
Kandise W.Photo session · Google review

★★★★★ · 5.0 on Google · 8 reviews

“Joenell captured our engagement perfectly. He was easygoing, professional, and made the whole experience enjoyable. We absolutely love the photos and would gladly work with him again.”

— Alexandria V., engagement

Tell me about your plans — I'll reply with availability and a quote built around your day.