Loch Lomond Engagement Photography
Why couples choose Loch Lomond for proposals
People are drawn to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park for many reasons. The scale of the landscape, the stillness of the water, the changing light and the feeling that you can find somewhere that’s quietly your own all make it one of the most romantic places in Scotland to get engaged. I see that again and again through my work as a Loch Lomond photographer, helping couples plan and capture moments that feel genuine, relaxed and personal. In this blog, I have linked to my other website - See Loch Lomond, which has guides to the places mentioned here.
Local knowledge makes all the difference
One of the biggest questions couples ask me is where to propose. There are so many options. Sometimes people already have a place in mind, perhaps Luss or Balmaha, and I’m always happy to meet them at a location that’s meaningful to them. More often, especially for visitors who don’t know the area well, they ask for advice based on what they want the moment to feel like.
That local insight is a huge part of the value I bring. I spend a lot of time around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and I know how different places work at various times of day and year, where crowds tend to gather, and where you can still find calm, beautiful backdrops.
A behind-the-scenes proposal at Milarrochy Bay
Recently, I photographed an engagement for Andrew and Kirsten, who were visiting the area and didn’t know Loch Lomond at all. Andrew got in touch, looking for help not just with the photography, but with choosing the right place to propose.
After talking through what they were looking for, I suggested Milarrochy Bay, just beyond Balmaha on the east side of the loch, with views towards Ben Lomond. It’s a popular spot in high summer, but at that time of year, on a Saturday morning, it offered space, parking, toilets and the chance of a quiet, uninterrupted moment by the water. As you can see from a few of the photographs I have shared from that special session, this is a great location. You can see exactly where it is on the map below.
Discreet planning and natural moments
For surprise proposals, discretion is everything. I always arrive early to scout the best position and make sure I know exactly how the moment will unfold. Andrew and I agreed on a simple plan and a clear meeting point near the iconic stones by the loch, which gave me a strong backdrop without making anything feel staged.
There are always variables when you’re shooting outdoors. On this occasion, a group of open-water swimmers arrived and initially set up right where the proposal was to take place. Thankfully, after a quick chat, they kindly moved along, leaving us with a clear stretch of beach and uninterrupted views across the loch.
When Andrew and Kirsten arrived, I was already there, apparently photographing the scenery. That meant nothing looked unusual, and Kirsten had no reason to suspect anything. From the corner of my eye, I could see them approach, and I was perfectly placed when Andrew dropped to one knee.
Capturing the moment without intruding
That split second when a proposal happens is what it’s all about. My job is to capture it honestly, without getting in the way. I photographed the proposal as it unfolded, then the reactions, the embraces and the laughter that followed, all framed by the natural beauty of Loch Lomond.
Kirsten was so caught up in the moment that she didn’t even notice I’d been photographing it. Once they’d had time to take it all in, I went over, congratulated them, and we continued with a relaxed engagement shoot around the beach, using spots I’ve returned to many times for couples and families.
From proposal to celebration
After the shoot, Andrew and Kirsten headed off to celebrate with a meal and an overnight stay at Cameron House. I headed home to start editing, knowing how important it is to get images back quickly so couples can share their news with family and friends.
It was a real privilege to be part of such an emotional, joyful moment, and to help turn all that careful planning into something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. Huge congratulations to Andrew and Kirsten. I wish them much happiness. I am very grateful for the kind review they gave me on Google.
Andrew’s 5-Star Google Review
“Booked with Paul for my surprise engagement photos and a photoshoot afterwards. Just got the results, and the photos couldn’t capture the moment and feeling any better. Absolutely amazing photos, highly recommend.”
How much does a photoshoot cost?
The cost of a photoshoot like this is £350, which includes planning, 60-90 minutes of photography, all final edited digital images, and five luxury prints of the session (any size up to 12x8 inches). Sessions are subject to availability; more details are available on request.
Planning a Loch Lomond proposal
If you’re thinking about proposing in Loch Lomond or anywhere in the Trossachs, I’m thrilled to help. I can advise on locations, timing and how to keep everything discreet, and I’ll be there to capture the moment as it happens quietly. The result is a natural, storytelling record of a day you’ll never forget.
I am a Professional Photographer based in Drymen, Loch Lomond, and photograph weddings, families and businesses in Scotland. Please get in touch if I can help you with any kind of photography here in the National Park, or across Scotland. Call/message me on 07810 481426, email me at paul@paulsaundersphotography.com, or get in touch using the contact page of this website.