Tyler and Olivia Gatlinburg, Tennessee Surprise Engagement Photoshoot
On October 2nd, Tyler proposed to Olivia in the Great Smoky National Forest in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. A few months before this, one of their friends reached out to me about this event and mentioned how she was helping Tyler find a photographer for this special event for her friends. After a few messages, I was put in contact with Tyler, and we started planning.
Tyler told me that the two of them love the outdoors, and how he would like to propose on a small hike while in Gatlinburg. The week prior, I traveled to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg to search for the perfect location for Tyler to pop the question, as they were coming from Ohio, and I am much closer. After scouring the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and other local parks in the area, I found the perfect location. There was a small hike from the parking lot that wasn’t too difficult, and it brought us to a beautiful view of a river.
I arrived early, and waited for their white SUV with Ohio plates to arrive. As they pull in, I get out of my car and act as casual as possible. I take a few steps from my car, and a third car pulls in and as I turn my back to it to walk to the path, I hear someone yelling, “ma’am, ma’am”. I turn around to hear a couple telling me that they spotted black bears just a little further down from where we currently were. Okay, this is fine, because it gives me the perfect excuse to go down to the river with a camera.
I arrive at the river and wait for Tyler and Olivia to arrive. I don’t bother hiding because, well, we know there are black bears nearby so it’s not weird that I am there. Soon, Tyler has dropped to one knee (after coaxing Olivia to come off the rocks in the river and back to solid ground) and my job started. Soon, they turn to me and I introduce myself to Olivia.
We explore the area for a quick photo shoot to celebrate their engagement and take advantage of the beautiful day in Gatlinburg. Check out some of Tyler and Olivia’s beautiful engagement session in the Smoky Mountain National Park.
