When Dillion reached out asking me to take his proposal photos, I couldn’t have been more excited to be a part of this special moment. For Dillion and Leah, the beaches of Long Beach, NY define their relationship. In the summertime, every weekend they are on the beaches of Long Beach and every evening after work they are at a Long Beach bar trivia night.

Naturally, these two wanted to have their engagement photos taken in a place that holds SO much meaning to them — Long Beach. After meeting on Bumble, Dillion and Leah were an instant match, and quickly connected over their love of the beach and the ocean.

With the family all together for Thanksgiving, Dillon was ready to take the jump and propose to his girlfriend Leah. Since Dillon and Leah both live in Long Beach, NY and with Dillon’s parents coming to Long Island for the first time, it was sure to be a Long Island Thanksgiving to remember.

Planning this Long Island Thanksgiving Proposal

Down the street from Dillon’s house in Long Beach, NY is a private boardwalk leading to the beach. We chose this location to propose for its privacy and unobstructed view of the beach. We knew this spot would serve as the perfect spot to drop down on one knee, propose, and take great photos.

The week leading up to the proposal, Dillon and I scouted the location and discussed all the details: How he would get Leah out on the walkway, where I’d be discreetly positioned to photograph the moment, and where their families would be hiding nearby to watch the proposal.

The day-of, I arrived in Long Beach early to make sure the location was ready and the stage was set.
As Dillon and Leah walked up the boardwalk, I let them pass and waited until Dillon was in position. When he dropped to one knee I snapped away.

Photographing their post proposal Champagne Toast and mini-engagement session on the beach to celebrate.

With family and friends around we took advantage of the beautiful Long Island Gold Coast and took some group family photos on the beach. Ending with a champagne toast and photos of Dillon and Leah on Long Beach’s famous jetties.

Photographer: Trent Campbell