Part 1: Washington Park, Albany, New York - Proposal

When Tyler first reached out to me on Instagram about planning a proposal session for his girlfriend Rachel, I could tell right away that this wasn’t just going to be a typical shoot. He was thoughtful, organized, and determined to make this day absolutely perfect for her.

Our first few conversations were about the basics — contracts, contact forms, and logistics — but soon we found ourselves deep in creative brainstorming. Since it was late fall, one of the biggest questions was whether there would still be color on the trees. Tyler wanted something timeless and romantic, surrounded by nature but not too bare.

We scheduled a virtual meeting to go over options and narrowed it down to three main locations: Orchard Creek, Thacher Park(with the possibility of Thompsons Lake), and Washington Park in Albany. Orchard Creek had been a favorite spot of mine from a recent engagement session and a senior session, and Thacher Park’s overlook is always breathtaking — but Washington Park had a personal connection for the couple. The Argus Hotel & Cocktail Lounge in Albany, was where Tyler and Rachel often stayed nearby when meeting halfway between New York City and Vermont.

Tyler decided to make a scouting trip to the area. He sent me videos and photos from each location so we could decide together.

Potential Spot: Glen Doone, Thacher Park, NY. Photo credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot: Glen Doone, Thacher Park, NY. Video credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot: Overlook, Thacher Park, NY. Video credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot, Rain Location: Argus Hotel Photo Credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot, Rain Location: Argus Hotel Video Credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot, Rain Location: Argus Hotel Video Credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot: Washington Park, Albany NY. Photo Credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot: Washington Park, Albany NY. Video Credit Tyler Coleman

Potential Spot: Washington Park, Albany NY. Video Credit Tyler Coleman

Around that time, I shared photos from another recent engagement session showing that there were still plenty of golden leaves hanging on. We both breathed a sigh of relief — it looked like fall wasn’t quite ready to let go yet.

After weighing the pros and cons of light, travel, weather, and timing, we landed a plan: The Argus Hotel, where the couple would be staying that weekend, followed by photos Washington Park, where Tyler planned to propose with the ring with the bridge in the background.

Rachel knew about the photo session but wasn't expecting the ring, so it would still be somewhat a surprise!

✨ Stay tuned for Part 2 — where we head to Washington Park in Albany for the big day.