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This is undoubtedly one of the most exciting shoots I have ever done. A few months before this shoot I received an email from Jimmy from Sweden. And that wasn't just any email. He asked me if I wanted to do a photo shoot in Amsterdam with his future wife Nina. But that wasn't just any photo shoot either. I was allowed to record the proposal myself. But here's the thing: Nina wasn't allowed to know that a photographer was there!
Fast forward a few months: After numerous consultations, I arrived in Amsterdam. I texted back and forth with Jimmy about the exact spot. He had a very specific place in mind. When I finally found this place, I had to wait. Secretly I kept in touch with Jimmy. Suddenly I received a message:
“We'll be there in 5 minutes.”
But what happened to my great shock? Just then, a large van parked on the bridge, the site of the proposal, which would totally ruin the photos. I kindly asked the man if this bus could leave because of. the marriage proposal. The man did not want to cooperate with that. Fortunately, the bus was unloaded just in time. I quickly moved some bicycles aside in the middle of the bridge so that the proposal could take place there.
“Jimmy, I've moved some bicycles away in the center of the bridge. That's the perfect spot for a proposal right there. Good luck!"
I hid behind a car on the side of the canal. When I looked back, Jimmy and Nina were just approaching. I looked at Jimmy and winked. Luckily Nina didn't see me. I watched what happened with my heart in my throat. I had given Jimmy the instructions to take his time and first have a nice cuddle on the bridge.
But then the moment finally arrived. Jimmy took the ring from his pocket and got on his knees before his great love. What a romantic moment! I continued photographing like crazy, trying not to miss anything. Fortunately, the result was beautiful photos.
After the proposal we would perform a 'piece' where I, as a passing photographer, would be asked by Jimmy to take some pictures of the newly engaged couple. After some clumsy acting, that worked. Ultimately, the restaurant staff revealed that a photographer had been present all along. To compress! But, Nina still didn't know about the photos I took of the proposal.
It was a bit of a sweat, but: mission accomplished!
