Josh and Caroline (he/him, she/her) met each other in PT school, fell in love, and both found jobs as travel physical therapists. The two of them and their adorable pup Willy, have lived an adventurous, nomadic lifestyle moving between multiple states throughout the years of being together. Ending up in Maryland during this time was just another part of their story, and little did Caroline know, this state would hold so much sentiment in their relationship.
Josh reached out to me with a plan in mind for the surprise proposal he had been dreaming up for Caroline. He knew that Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis was the perfect place, and after chatting more in detail about the park he decided that the trail that leads to the waterfront was the spot for the occasion, and I couldn’t agree more!
As a Maryland surprise proposal photographer, it was important to make sure the proposal was kept a surprise for Caroline. I arrived at the park early to head down the trail and start getting into “character” as a casual bystander enjoying nature that early afternoon. I awaited their arrival and at the perfect moment I began photographing Josh, Caroline, and Willy (their absolutely adorable poodle) enjoying what Caroline thought was a casual walk to the dog park. As they approached the stairs, Josh stopped to “tie his shoe”, and while Caroline and Willy stood next to him, Josh pulled out the engagement ring he had in his pocket and proposed the question of spending the rest of their lives together. Caroline, of course said yes! Willy was so happy for his parents(:
Josh knew it would be too obvious if he tried to convince Caroline to wear something other than athletic wear for a walk to the dog park, so he secretly packed them both a change of clothes for post-proposal photos and stored them in the trunk of his car. The two of them changed into their second outfit, then we ventured back to continue soaking in such a special day.
We then wandered back through Quiet Waters Park for an engagement session that felt completely authentic to them. The cloudy skies and light rain only made the afternoon feel even more intimate, proving that you don’t need perfect weather to have perfect memories.
If you’re looking for a spot to propose in Maryland, Quiet Waters Park is one of my favorite locations! They have so much variety all in one park. Some of these include colorful garden areas, wooded trails, waterfront views, and a peaceful pagoda (that you can even get married at). It offers plenty of beautiful, private spots that make surprise proposals feel incredibly personal while still giving you stunning photographs to remember the moment.
This proposal is a perfect example for a couple who is looking for a special outdoor location to hold sentiment, loves spending time outdoors together, and to propose in a way that is unique to their relationship, keeping it thoughtful and romantic. Proposals like this are the reason I value being able to document authentic and one of a kind engagement photography sessions. They keep moments so timeless in the best kind of way.
Booking is open for 2026 and 2027 engagement sessions, elopements, and weddings.
