Shoaib + Samia
Adler Planetarium
How Do You Plan a Romantic Sunset Proposal at Adler Planetarium?
Shoaib wanted his proposal to be a moment Samia would never forget. He planned the perfect surprise with a sunset proposal at Adler Planetarium. To set the stage, he told Samia they were heading to a company party at Adler later that evening. This gave them a reason to dress up and head to Museum Campus early, where they took a stroll to enjoy the stunning skyline views. Little did she know, everything was leading up to one unforgettable moment.
How Can You Use a Covert Approach for a Proposal?
To keep the proposal a surprise, we used the Covert Approach. I posed as a photographer waiting for another photoshoot, blending into the background with a light stand. This tactic allowed us to discreetly capture the big moment. By using an off-camera flash, we preserved the dramatic skyline and illuminated the scene as the sun set behind them. The result? Stunning photos that balanced the romantic golden light with Chicago’s iconic cityscape.
What Makes Adler Planetarium a Great Proposal Location?
Adler Planetarium offers one of the best views of Chicago’s skyline, especially at sunset. The combination of the open lakefront, city lights, and dramatic skies creates a breathtaking backdrop for a romantic proposal. Shoaib and Samia celebrated their engagement with additional photos around Adler, taking full advantage of the beautiful surroundings as the sun dipped below the horizon.
One note to keep in mind: the skyline can become backlit by the setting sun. This can cause the skyline to appear overexposed in photos if you rely solely on natural light. That’s why I recommend using off-camera lighting to properly expose both the couple and the background.
Tips for Planning a Sunset Proposal at Adler Planetarium
Plan for the Golden Hour: Aim for the 30-60 minutes leading up to sunset. This timing gives you soft, romantic light and the opportunity to capture a vibrant skyline as the city lights start to glow.
Dress the Part: Having an event or reason to dress up, like Shoaib’s “company party” idea, adds to the special atmosphere while keeping the surprise intact.
Scout the Location: Explore Adler’s grounds ahead of time to find the perfect spot. The walkway near the water and the open area with the skyline in the background are favorites.
Use Off-Camera Flash: A little lighting can go a long way in preserving both the couple and the cityscape in your photos, especially at dusk.
Celebrate Afterward: Whether it’s a private dinner or a stroll under the stars, plan a way to extend the moment and soak it all in.
Why Is Adler Planetarium a Perfect Proposal Spot?
The Adler Planetarium is more than just an iconic Chicago landmark—it’s a proposal destination that combines romance, breathtaking views, and a touch of magic. With the sun setting behind the skyline and the lake shimmering in the background, it’s the kind of place where unforgettable memories are made. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or capturing it in photos, Adler Planetarium offers a setting that’s second to none.
Congrats again!
I’ll be in touch soon with the full gallery, in the meantime enjoy these highlights!
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