Faq

Can you capture my proposal on video?

Yes, definitely! In fact, I think it’s necessary to have the proposal not only photographed but also filmed. Video gives a wonderfully rounded perspective to your proposal that perfectly complements the photography.

I shot and edited my first marriage proposal video in the summer of 2015 using two cameras and a drone. The video was published online and quickly went viral: it became one of the ‘Best Proposal Videos of 2015,’ awarded by HowHeAsked.com, one of the most popular wedding proposal websites around. I have plenty of film package options available to suit all budgets. Just send me a message with your ideas and I’ll get back to you with some suggestions.

Can I make an appointment to meet with you before the big day?

Certainly. If you are in New York, you can come and meet me in my studio or in a spot of your choosing in the city. If you are not in NYC, we can schedule a Skype call or telephone conversation; my number is +1(929) 600-1664.

Is it possible to customize your packages?

Absolutely. Once I’ve sent you the details on my package offers, let’s have a chat about how to make it just right for you and your partner! We can add to or detract from any of the package options; I can give you as much or as little creative input and advice as you need.

What is your photographic style?

I get asked this question a lot — it seems there’s an article on “What to ask your proposal/wedding photographer” out there and this question is number one on the list! My photographic style is naturally candid, seeing as I specialize in ‘secret’ photography. However, I don’t like to pigeonhole myself into silly categories — I can be flexible to your needs and I very much take the mood and lighting of the day (and of course the couples themselves) as my artistic cue. Put it this way: If you are still reading this FAQ, then you must like my photographs enough!

Are you LGBT friendly?

Yes, definitely. I love that more and more same sex couples are expressing their feelings for each other openly. [link to the blog article] I even have a special offer for LGBT couples, just ask me about it!

I’m really nervous about getting my photo taken. Can you help me with that?

I’m willing to bet that 95% of people reading this FAQ will have homed in on this question. This may come as a surprise, but most people dislike the idea of having their photos taken. It’s really nothing that you should be worrying about — I’ve had plenty of training in helping people overcome their nerves and relax in front of the camera. And if you’ve chosen me to take photos of your proposal, you won’t have to worry about me at all — I’ll have hidden myself away somewhere that both you and your partner can focus on the moment that matters.

How many proposals have you captured?

As of May 2016, I have taken photographs and filmed over 700 proposals.

I’m looking for a wedding photographer. Can you help me?

Yes, I can — it just so happens that I’m a wedding photographer as well!

I think that photographers get the best shots from couples the more time they spend with them and get to know them. I love it when happy clients come back to me, and I do offer special rates for repeat visits — just send me a message!

What is your degree in? How much experience do you have in photography?

I have a Master’s degree in Photography from SVA NYC. I’ve been a full time photographer since 2005.

What kind of budget will I need to book you?

My rates start from $350 for my most basic photography package.

Can you tell me why I should choose you?

I have a great deal of experience in capturing proposals in NYC. I know the city like the back of my hand, and I know the very best moments to capture. But besides my experience, I simply love being a part of these wonderful days! I really enjoy photographing my couples at a time when their emotions are running really high; it’s one of the real highlights of my job. I take the time to get to know my couples and what makes them tick; I find that knowledge transfers really into exquisite proposal, engagement and wedding photos.

How can I book you?

To confirm the shoot, I require a $100 deposit. You can send this to me by PayPal (info@vladletophotography.com), Venmo or Chase quick pay. The remainder of the payment is due on the day of the proposal.

I’m coming to New York with my partner and want to surprise him/her with pictures of our day without him/her knowing that you’re taking them. Can you help me with that?

Yes, I can. Just let me know when you’re coming to the city and where you plan to visit — I’ll get back to you with some location ideas and a quote.

I need engagement/save the date photos. Do you offer that?

Yes, of course. Just let me know your requirements and I’ll come back to you with ideas and/or a quote.

I have already proposed — but I didn’t think about having a photographer until it was too late! Is it possible to recreate the moment?

Sure! I have photographed some couples who just wanted to relive the experience. Even couples who are already married choose to come back after a few years and get their photos taken with me; there’s nothing more romantic than spending a day in each other’s arms and in the most incredible city in the world!

What if I have questions that aren’t listed here?

Just contact me! I’d be glad to walk you through any further questions you may have, and also any that aren’t clear to you on this website.

Do you have any recommendations for the day of the proposal?

What’s most important is that you don’t rush it! Don’t allow your nerves to get the better of you; you are in good hands. Think of me as a little moral support with you on the day, running in the background to keep everything moving!

Along with a map and timings that I send you before the proposal, I will also send you instructions and tips about the location you have chosen.

What is the best season to propose?

Every season has its benefits. The two most popular times are in the height of summer and just before Christmas. But that’s not to say that you shouldn’t consider the beauty of spring and autumn! Spring can be a truly lovely time of year, when the birds are singing and the flowers are just starting to blossom. Likewise, autumn is when the leaves turn those gorgeous reds and golds — making for a particularly dramatic photo/video-shoot.

I would advise that you really think about a time of the year that’s personal to you and your partner. The season is nice window dressing — but it shouldn’t dictate when you ask your partner to marry you. And remember that you always have the option to propose indoors.

What is the best time of the week/day to propose?

From a photographic perspective, the best time of day to propose is between 30 minutes before and 1 hour after sunrise, or 1 hour before and 30 minutes after sunset (e.g., if sunset is at 8pm, then the best time for your proposal photography would be the period from 7pm to 8.30pm).

Having said that, with my many years of experience in outdoor photography, I can make it possible to shoot at any time of day or night. Just choose a time that works for you and let me know.

From a city perspective, it depends on your own preferences. Do you want the world to see you propose, or would you want a more private proposal? If it’s the latter, then it’s better to organize it to take place on a weekday before 9am — you’ll likely have NYC for just two of you [show example picture]. If you prefer to have people to cheer you on when you propose, choose any other time! The city of New York is there to support you!

What should I wear to the proposal?

This is one of most important days in your life; at least as important as your wedding. But while weddings can have rather strict ideas about what should be worn by the bride and groom, you can wear whatever you wish at your proposal! I would recommend that you wear whatever your partners loves to see you in and something that’s appropriate to the location that you have chosen. [even more important then a wedding – link to blog article]

What is the best proposal spot in NYC? Can you recommend anywhere?

New York has so many great proposal spots, from Central Park through the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens to a private rooftop with staggering views over the city. I’m currently writing a book about the best proposal locations in NYC (and would be glad to share the information with you), and I also write up some of my own insights in my blog.

I’ve taken enough proposals in the Big Apple to know what works — and what doesn’t. Just contact me and I will help you to pick the best spot in the city for you and your partner.

I don’t know New York at all — will you help me pick a spot to propose?

Of course. I have had a lot of training in helping clients pick out the best spot for them and that says something about their personalities and their experiences as a couple. Just send me a message with a little background about you and your partner, and the kinds of things you both love to do. I’ll get back to you with some options in the city.

I want to have a very private proposal; no other people around. Can you do that?

No problem. You have a few options here:

  • Propose very early, just after sunrise (you’ll also get the best lighting for your shots).
  • Pick a secret spot that nobody knows about (sounds impossible for NYC, doesn’t it? But I know around 50 hidden spots, and some of them are even in Central Park).
  • Rent a private rooftop or another venue (we have worked with many private venues around the city and can help you with finding the right spot).
I don’t want to go to a popular place like Central Park; do you know any other spots?

Yes, I know over 100 different spots to propose in the city. You may have already read that I am writing a book about the best locations to propose in NYC; this has been hugely inspired by my own experiences of photographing 700+ proposals in the city. If you don’t want a proposal in Central Park, you’re in good hands. There’s a wealth of other possibilities in New York (why else would it be called the city that never sleeps?!

I want to propose on top of the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center rooftop. Is it a good idea?

I personally feel that the Rockefeller Center is better, simply because you have such an iconic view of NYC with the Empire State Building in the background. Naturally, that’s missing from the view when you’re standing on the rooftop of the Empire State Building itself! Another idea might be to rent a private rooftop — if you choose this option then I can certainly help with finding a great place to rent.

I’m thinking of hiring musicians. Do you know any guitarists or violinists?

We have worked with a great deal of guitarists, violinists and other musicians. Music is a great way to set the mood and to surprise your partner even more than they are likely to be when you pop the question! Just send me the name of the song(s) you have in mind and we will find the best musician to play it for you.

Can you arrange for flowers at the proposal?

Yes. Just let us know that you’d like to have flowers and we will make sure to surprise your loved one with them! If you have particular flowers in mind, please ask and we will try our best to source some for you. Please note that most types of flowers are seasonal; have a look online for the flowers that are in season and we will get onto it!

I don’t want my partner to see you taking photos!

No problem. I will take all the pictures and videos of your proposal in secret — they won’t know a thing until you finally pop the question. Exactly how it’s meant to be!

How are you going to hide?

I have some tricks! I always scout the proposal location for spots where I can hide so that my photography and filming of your big day will go undetected. With my long camera lens, I’m able to hide myself away far enough that your partner will never even know I’m there. I’ll also make sure that you know where I’m standing before the proposal takes place, to avoid us bumping into each other (it hasn’t happened yet!)

How are you going to find us?

Before the day of your proposal, I’ll need 1) a picture of you both and 2) either pictures or an accurate description of what you will (both) be wearing. We will also likely have spoken over Skype or in person, which will make finding you easy.

What if it starts to rain?

We don’t often get rain in NYC, but if the heavens do open then it’s likely that I will give you a chance to postpone the day (given enough advance warning). If you want to continue with the proposal come rain or shine, I do know many nice places to propose under cover from the weather.

If it’s just a light rain, sometimes that can work even better — some of my favorite shots are those that I take in the rain. [link the post in my blog.]

Can you reschedule?

It depends on the circumstances, how close we are to the day itself, and how many extras (musicians, decorations) you have booked, but it is possible in many cases.

Will you marry us?

Unfortunately I’m not registered to marry couples; but maybe that’s something I’ll reconsider in the future!

How do you deliver your photos and videos?

I normally upload all your photos and videos onto Dropbox and then email you with a link to your folder. If you don’t have a Dropbox account, no problem. Just click on the link I will send you by email and you’re ready to download all photos and videos in high resolution to your computer or electronic device.

What if I lose my pictures; do you keep them anywhere?

I archive my videos and photographs for a few years in case of these kinds of emergencies (but make sure you keep them safe — these photos need to last a lifetime)!

Can you make us a photo album?

Yes, just let me know before the proposal that you plan to have a photo album and I will run through some options with you. I make sure to source only the highest quality albums and will discuss presentation with you before creating it.

I’m going to propose in another US city but I want to you to capture my proposal. Are you available for regional work?

Yes, certainly, providing you book well enough in advance. Please note that my travel expenses for photography/videography outside of NYC are not covered.

I’m going to propose in another country but I want to you to capture my proposal. Are you available for international work?

Yes, certainly, providing you book well enough in advance. Please note that my travel expenses for photography/videography outside of NYC are not covered.

Is it possible to plan all of this without my partner knowing?

I’ll certainly hold up my end of the bargain; the rest is up to you!

Where can I find out more about the packages do you offer?

Just send me an email with your enquiry. I have packages to suit every budget, from an intimate proposal in Central Park when morning has just broken to an extravagant engagement party on a rooftop bar!

Can you help me with an idea?

Definitely. I have a creative team behind me, including a proposal planner, to help build the perfect proposal for your partner. Just send me a message and we can pencil in a chat.

Can you help me with planning?

Yes. A member of my creative team is a professional proposal planner and she has helped a great many of my couples to have an incredible day. Please send me a message to let me know that you would also like to talk with our proposal planner.

Can you help me with rooftop rentals?

Absolutely. We have sourced the best 10 private rooftops in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and will gladly share them with you over email.

Can you make a map from my hotel to the proposal spot?

Yes, I provide clear maps and support for all my couples! The map I create will include tips and photos to ensure that your proposal goes smoothly.

Isn’t it going to be hard to bring my partner to the proposal location at the right time?

Actually, no! Not one of my couples has had trouble, and that’s all down to good organization. I will write up a plan and map for you that have worked for countless other proposals. The plan considers all timings, including transportation and walking distances. I make it easy for you to get to where you want to be and at the right time. All you have to do is commit it to memory.