Wild and Windy Secret Proposal Photos at Durledoor
The story of Sid and Abbi’s proposal photos at Durdledoor started months ago. Sid had been super busy researching the best wedding photographers in Dorset and got in touch to ask for advice about a secret proposal shoot. When I say secret I mean really secret – so secret that Abbi would not know Sid (and her family) would even be there!
Planning a Durdledoor Proposal
We had months of planning the proposal photos at durdledoor. There were phone calls, emails, text messages, and a WhatsApp group. As well as applying for the legal license to shoot on the Lulworth Estate. I knew this would not be a normal proposal photo shoot. There was much more careful planning and logistics than is typical.
Normally, I try to keep a secret proposal shoot simple. This reduces the chances of errors. After the planning, on the day itself, the couple arrives at the location. They find the best place for a proposal. One partner gets down on one knee – job done.
For this proposal, Abbi didn’t know that Sid was even in the same county!
The Logistics of a Secret Proposal Photo Shoot
We made a plan. I would meet Sid at Lulworth Cove and drive him to Durdledoor car park. This way, no familiar cars would give us away. Next, we would then wait in disguise as hill-walking tourists. Finally, Abbi arrives with her brother and sister, who position her in the correct place.
Next, a ruse happens. The siblings pretend to take Abbi’s picture by the door, looking out to sea. As they do this, Sid removes his disguise and approaches. This had to be timed around both Abbi and Sid’s families. Both were driving from Lulworth Cove to Durdledoor. They would (fingers crossed) arrive after Abbi. They would then be able to see the proposal photos at Durdledoor from the beach overlook. Of course, Abbi wouldn’t know any of this.
Leading up to the date I kept an eye on the forecast. I was concerned about the wind. But, we had done all of the planning and the elements were in play. So, we decided to go for it. Sid was on good form and even had a selection of coats and a bunch of flowersfor the occasion! The wind and swell created spectacular white waves. We saw them coming in from the sea at Durdledoor car park. The white horses on the beach provided a stunning contrast. They stood out from the tones of the cliffs, rocks, and stones.
Waiting For Proposal Photos at Durdledoor
It was a cold and windy day on the Purbeck Coast. We started the proposal photos at Durdledoor in good spirits. But, Abbi and her siblings arrived late. This had us trying to keep our spirits up longer than expected. So, Sid settled into his windproof disguise. On occasion, he dared to peer out from behind his wind blown OS map.
Adapting to the Situation – Plans Change
We could WhatsApp the siblings with directions. But, I could see they struggled to get Abbi into the space between Sid and I and the stone archway. After 10 minutes, we decided to take a big risk. So next I ran along the beach with my camera kit hidden under my jacket as Sid approached from behind. I had to run fast ignoring the stones in my shoes to place Abbi between myself and the sea arch. I then arrived just in time to catch the moment Sid reached his future fiancé.
Reaction to Marriage Proposal at Durdldoor
As you can see from the proposal photos at Durdledoor, Abbi was shocked. She had no idea that Sid would be there, let alone propose. Shock turned into surprise and joy as Sid snuck to one knee with the engagement ring in hand. A resounding ‘Yes’ was heard and the couple stood hugging in joy in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I was completely focused on the scene in front of me. As a result, I didn’t realize how many others on the beach had witnessed the occasion. I only noticed when applause and whoops echoed around the cove.
Photos of a Family Celebration
Abbi proudly showed off her new jewelry and fiancé to her siblings. I approached to congratulate them all. I praised them not just for the proposal but for managing the complex logistics involved.
Newly Engaged Couple Photos at Durdledoor
We took some couple shots with the Archway and on the almost empty beach. Family members who could tackle the steep steps down joined us.
With some group shots in the bag, we headed back up to the viewing platform atop the cliff. Stopping to embrace the stunning views over Man O’ War bay on the way. Back at the top of the cliff the rest of the family were full of congratulations and hugs.
The happy couple wandered up the coastal path together. The sun set beautifully on one of the biggest days in their life story and their proposal photos at durdledoor.
