When Dezley first got in touch with me about a possible surprise proposal in Madrid, he knew he wanted to ask Carmen to marry him during their trip. What he wasn't entirely sure about was how, or even exactly when, it would happen.

Unlike many surprise proposals that are carefully planned down to the minute, this one started as a simple couple's photo session. Dezley and Carmen, originally from the Netherlands and Portugal respectively, were spending a few days exploring Madrid together and wanted to capture some memories of their trip. The proposal was a possibility, but there was no fixed plan. He wanted to see how the afternoon unfolded and decide what felt right in the moment.

We met in Retiro Park on a beautiful autumn afternoon, with the trees glowing in shades of gold and yellow... I mean this is pure magic, right? As we wandered through the park, we focused on creating natural photographs of the two of them together. There was no pressure, no strict timeline, just a relaxed walk, plenty of laughter, and the chance to enjoy one of Madrid's most beautiful locations.

As the session continued, it became clear that the moment felt right.

Surrounded by the warm colours of autumn, Dezley got down on one knee and asked Carmen to marry him.

It was incredibly romantic, not because it was perfectly orchestrated, but because it was genuine. The proposal happened naturally, exactly when it felt right for them, and Carmen's reaction was everything Dezley had hoped for.

What makes this story even more special for me is that this wasn't the end of our journey together. After their engagement in Madrid, they invited me to photograph their wedding in Portugal in 2027. As a photographer, there is something truly meaningful about being trusted to document not just one milestone, but an entire chapter of a couple's story.

I left that afternoon feeling grateful to have witnessed such a beautiful moment, and even more excited knowing that I would see them again to celebrate their wedding day.

Congratulations, Carmen and Dezley. I can't wait to see you both again in Portugal.

Visiting Madrid as a couple?

Whether you're celebrating an engagement, an anniversary, a honeymoon, or simply a special trip together, a photo session is a wonderful way to preserve those memories long after your journey ends.

From romantic walks through Retiro Park to hidden corners of the city centre, I'd love to help you create natural photographs that tell the story of your time in Madrid.

Get in touch to start planning your Madrid photo session.