Proposals

Surprise Proposal at Burnside Farms | Summer Sunflower Season

August 22, 2025

Daniela Zapata Photography
Welcome! I hope this blog serves you as a resource for planning your future session with me, or for getting a better feel for my photography style. Enjoy!

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One of my favorite things about being a Northern Virginia Wedding Photographer (and a Surprise Proposal Photographer) is that no two stories are ever the same. This proposal at Burnside Farms had the perfect mix of laughter, beauty, and just a little bit of “wait… is that who I think it is?” energy.

First Impressions of Burnside Farms

Believe it or not, this was my first time at Burnside Farms, and it’s gorgeous. Endless flowers, bright sun, and so many sweet little details. They hand you a basket and some shears to cut your own blooms, so picture me walking around with a basket featuring all the essentials: my camera and some cutting shears. Definitely a new look for me.

The Surprise (with a Twist)

Here’s the funny part: the bride-to-be had actually seen me at another event before, and when she spotted me from a distance she recognized me… but didn’t think much of it (she later told she thought it was a coincidence and thought about approaching me later). This meant she was still totally surprised when her fiancé got down on one knee! Their friends were in on it too, pretending that they were just there to pick flowers. A+ decoys.

friends hugging in sunflower field at burnside farms virginia

Sunset + Sunflowers = Magic

Once the “yes!” happened, we all got to enjoy the dreamiest dusk light. The sky turned soft and colorful, and it felt like the perfect ending to a really special evening. Burnside Farms was so welcoming about letting us take photos, and honestly, it’s such a great spot for proposals, engagement sessions, or even family photos if you love flowers and wide-open skies.

Why I Loved This Session

This proposal had everything I love about my job: real surprise, happy tears, and a beautiful place to make it all happen. At Daniela Zapata Photography, I’m all about keeping things fun and comfortable while capturing moments you’ll actually want to relive forever. And if those moments happen to come with a basket of sunflowers? Even better. 🌻

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