The birdwatcher at Menlo Castle — photographing a surprise proposal in Galway
Some shoots require a bit of planning. This one required a long lens, a red notebook, and knowing when to stay very still.
J contacted me a few weeks ago with a simple request: he wanted to propose to his girlfriend T, and he wanted it photographed. He had the absolutely perfect location in mind — Menlo Castle on the outskirts of Galway city. Menlo Castle is a hauntingly beautiful ruin on the banks of the River Corrib. After a bit of location scouting, we settled on a spot for the proposal: an old tree near the castle with the castle facade as a backdrop.
Trying to hide when you are 6'2" (187cm) is something of a challenge. So instead of hiding in the long grass, I decided to stand out. I came prepared with a pair of binoculars (thanks Lidl middle aisle!) and a shiny red notebook, and positioned myself near the bank of the river, a good distance from the tree. Standing there waiting for things to kick off, I must have given a convincing impression of someone deeply interested in the birdlife on the Corrib. As planned, J guided T to the spot under the tree, and nobody paid the tall birdwatcher any attention.
He didn't waste much time. Down on one knee, ring out — and she said yes!
After the congratulations, we spent some time doing a relaxed shoot around the castle grounds. On my way there that morning I'd noticed a patch of woodland carpeted in wild garlic, so we stopped there and took some more photos. Delighted that I also got to introduce them to one of Ireland’s culinary pleasures.
I don't think I'll ever get tired of the sight of a couple that just got engaged. It's genuinely a privilege to be asked to photograph a moment like this. Are you planning to propose here in Ireland? If so, we should talk — andreas@doorusphoto.net
