Proposals

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Perfect Amsterdam Proposal: A Surprise on the Canals

When Stephen reached out to plan his proposal to Melissa, he had one request: to make it a moment she would never forget. Together, we brainstormed, and I suggested combining the beautiful Amsterdam canals with a bit of creativity and fun. That’s when I contacted Those Dam Boat Guys, a boat tour company known for its relaxed vibe and storytelling, which felt like the perfect match for this couple.

With the plan in place, I wanted to make the surprise flawless. Based on their pre-proposal questionnaire, I already had a great sense of their personalities. So, I decided to go undercover! Dressed as a captain-in-training with my camera hidden under the crew jacket, I joined the boat’s team for the day. The real captain even let me take the wheel for a while, which was such a fun experience.

Melissa suspected nothing. She thought it was just a casual, laid-back boat ride with Stephen. As we approached the big moment, I discreetly handed control of the boat back to the captain, grabbed my camera, and positioned myself perfectly for the proposal. When Stephen got down on one knee, her reaction was priceless—and she didn’t even notice the camera!

After she said “yes,” we spent the rest of the time cruising the canals, capturing candid, joy-filled moments. The intimacy of being on the water, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beauty, made the experience even more special.

What I love about proposal photography is how every detail, every moment of preparation, comes together to tell a unique story. This time, it was all about sneaking in as a “crew” while matching a couple with the perfect boat tour, but other times, I can pose as a tourist around the area. It’s all about creating something unforgettable. And for Melissa and Stephen, this was just the start of their Amsterdam love story.

This session didn't end here, we had some time on Amsterdam streets, but that's a story for another day.


Until next photo session in Amsterdam.


Joanna, your Amsterdam photographer

Vacation photographer and local expert based in Amsterdam



Tags

Proposal photography Amsterdam Proposal Ideas Boat Proposal Amsterdam Romantic Canal Sessions amsterdam photographer Surprise Engagement Stories Couples Photography Amsterdam Proposal Planning Tips Unique Amsterdam Proposals Those Dam Boat Guys Collaboration Amsterdam Canals Love Story Creative Proposal Photography Romantic Boat Rides Amsterdam Hidden Photographer Stories Candid Proposal Moments

Couple on a boat in Amsterdam’s canals as the man kneels to propose, with the city’s iconic scenery in the background.
Engaged couple laughing and holding hands on the deck of a boat, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways.
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Engaged couple laughing and holding hands on the deck of a boat, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways.
Engaged couple laughing and holding hands on the deck of a boat, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways.
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Behind-the-scenes shot of the photographer capturing a proposal from the boat’s deck, blending into the crew
Engaged couple laughing and holding hands on the deck of a boat, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways.
Engaged couple laughing and holding hands on the deck of a boat, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways.
Engaged couple laughing and holding hands on the deck of a boat, surrounded by Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways.

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