As I stood on the sprawling lawn of the World War One Museum in Kansas City, my heart was filled with excitement and nervousness. Josh had contacted me to capture his surprise engagement proposal in downtown Kansas City, an intimate and life-changing moment.
As I watched Josh and Autumn start to take a romantic stroll around the grounds, I knew it was time to get into position. With the iconic views of Downtown Kansas City serving as the ultimate and breathtaking backdrop, I couldn't help but be in awe of the beauty and significance of the moment. Josh's nervous energy and then look of utter surprise and joy on the Autumns, and the sheer emotion that filled the air - it was a moment that I knew needed to be captured in all its raw and authentic glory.
SHE SAID YES!
It's what we're all wondering right?! Through tears of joy, Autumn said yes in the afternoon sun in front of downtown Kansas City. Josh slipped the stunning ring onto her finger, and the rest is history! I emerged from my subtle hiding spot to introduce myself. We then spent some time together taking some "just engaged" portraits. From showing off her new ring to the non-stop hugs, kisses, and giggles, this portrait session is one of my favorites!
Photography has always been more than just a job or a hobby. It is a way for me to honor both spectacular and ordinary moments by freezing time. Capturing those fleeting and ephemeral moments allows me to tell stories, evoke emotions, and create memories that will last a lifetime. As I clicked away with my camera, I felt a sense of purpose and fulfillment that is hard to put into words. Knowing life-changing moments are unfolding in front of your very eyes is utterly thrilling, rewarding, intimate, chaotic, and beautiful.
Over the years, I have grown and evolved as a photographer, honing my skills and refining my craft. I have learned to see the world through a different lens, appreciating light and shadows, leaning into the weird and unique, craving experiences that reflect the people involved, and noticing the small details and moments that others may overlook. I have embraced the concepts of timeless, classic, modern, candid, and photojournalistic photography, using them to guide and inspire my work.
And as I look back on this surprise engagement proposal with Josh and Autumn, I am filled with gratitude and joy. Witnessing and capturing such a significant moment in two people's lives is a privilege and an honor. Moments like these remind me why I do what I do.
Jill Caren Photo specializes in wedding, elopement, engagement, and couples photography, is based out of Kansas City, Missouri, and is available for travel worldwide. Jill Caren Photo offers a full complimentary engagement session and full-day wedding coverage, so couples are not forced to choose what they want to be documented on a wedding day. Jill Caren Photo also offers engagement and couples sessions for anyone booking outside a wedding package.
Jill Caren Photo's wedding photography services were grown out of her heart to connect and speak life into young couples as they embark on their marriage journey while offering them a photography experience that documents all the moments of their wedding day. Jill Caren Photo is wedding and portrait photography for intentional couples wanting authentic memories of their best days.
If you would like to see if Jill Stuefer with Jill Caren Photo is available to photograph your wedding, elopement, couples, or engagement session, or if you would like to receive detailed information about her services, you can contact Jill here.