The Proposal That Went Viral

Some moments feel big while you’re standing in them, but you never really expect them to travel far beyond that. This proposal was one of those moments — quiet, meaningful, and honestly just really special — and somehow it turned into something seen by millions.

I photographed Morgan and Cooper’s proposal in Manhattan, Kansas. It was intimate, thoughtful, and full of anticipation in that way proposals usually are, where everyone is holding their breath just a little. I was there to document it like I always do — focused on the emotion, the reactions, and the moments that matter most.

Along with photographing the proposal, I also recorded it using my Ray-Ban Meta glasses. I’ve been experimenting with them more lately, mostly for behind-the-scenes moments and storytelling, but this was one of those times where I’m so thankful I had them on. The perspective felt natural and immersive, like you were standing right there with us.

After the proposal, I shared the video on TikTok and Instagram, not thinking much beyond wanting to share a really sweet moment. Within days, it started gaining traction. Then it kept going. And going. The video reached 1.3 million views on TikTok and over 910,000 views on Instagram, which honestly still feels surreal to type out.

What made it even more special was reading the comments. So many people connected to the moment — not because it was flashy or over-the-top, but because it felt real. It was a reminder that people still care deeply about genuine love stories, quiet excitement, and moments that feel true.

For me, this experience reinforced why I do what I do. Photography isn’t just about pretty images — it’s about preserving moments that people will carry with them forever. Sometimes those moments stay close to home, and sometimes they travel farther than you ever expect. Either way, I’m incredibly grateful I got to be part of Morgan and Cooper’s story.

This proposal will always be special to me, not because it went viral, but because it was real — and I was trusted to document it exactly as it happened.