Some sessions just stick with you—and this one had all the magic.
Keith first emailed me with an idea that instantly got my heart racing: he was planning to propose to his girlfriend, Jill, during their winter vacation in Yellowstone National Park. Not just any proposal, either—he wanted to do it at Old Faithful, with his parents along for the ride and the whole thing a surprise. I was immediately in.
But here’s the fun twist: during that time of year, the only way to get to Old Faithful is by snowcoach. And if you know me, you know I love anything adventurous, so obviously… I was in. Spending a day in Yellowstone on a snowcoach tour while secretly photographing a surprise proposal? YES PLEASE.
Playing Tourist for the Day
The morning of the session, I arrived early to meet up with our snowcoach group and coordinate with our amazing tour guide, Mark at Yellowstone Vacation Tours. I let him in on the surprise, and he couldn’t have been more excited to help make it all happen. He even planned the timing just right so we could arrive at Old Faithful and have the couple in position as the geyser began to erupt—the ultimate Yellowstone backdrop.
Meanwhile, I spent the first half of the day trying to blend in with the rest of the tour group, pretending to be just another tourist with a camera. I had to stay just far enough away from Keith and his family to avoid tipping Jill off, but close enough to capture the moment when it came. I love surprises, so honestly—it was so much fun playing secret agent photographer.
The Big Moment
When we arrived at Old Faithful, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. As the geyser started to erupt, Keith turned to Jill, dropped to one knee, and asked her to marry him.
Spoiler alert: SHE SAID YES!
There were hugs, cheers, and so much love in the air. Keith’s mom was ready with a “She Said Yes!” sash, and it was such a joyful, emotional moment to witness. Jill was completely surprised, glowing with excitement and admiration for her brand-new ring.
Portraits in the Snow
Once the secret was out and I could finally introduce myself, we spent the rest of the tour stopping for photos at every scenic overlook and snowy backdrop that our tour guide took us to. Jill and Keith were a dream to photograph—full of love, laughter, and the kind of just-engaged glow that makes my job so fun. And let me tell you, Yellowstone in the winter is a whole different kind of breathtaking.
Final Thoughts
I left the park that day with a full heart and cold fingers—feeling so lucky to have shared this adventure with such wonderful people. The excitement, the joy, the planning, the teamwork with the guide, the snowcoach ride… all of it reminded me why I absolutely love what I do.
To Keith, Jill, and your sweet family—thank you for trusting me to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment. I’ll never forget it.
Planning your own surprise proposal?
Let’s make it unforgettable. Whether it’s Yellowstone, the mountains of Montana, or somewhere totally wild—I’m ready when you are. 💌 Reach out here
Until the next adventure,
Shanna Mae
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