Photographing a 4M-Follower TikTok Influencer’s Proposal in the Smokies

January 31, 2025

The Proposal I’ll Never Forget

Photographing proposals in the Smoky Mountains always excites me, but this one hit differently. I photographed a surprise proposal for Kara x Lewis, a TikTok creator with over 4 million followers, and my heart just about jumped out of my chest. When I started my photography journey, I followed her and admired her work from afar. So the moment I realized I would photograph her proposal in the Smokies, I felt honored…and terrified in the funniest way.

However, Kara is genuinely the sweetest soul with the kindest heart. You don’t believe me? Go check her out. Her success at such a young age shows how talented she is, and I couldn’t wait to capture such a huge moment for her and West.

How West Reached Out and Started the Plan

Everything started when West—her boyfriend and now fiancé—sent me the most thoughtful email. He said he wanted a dreamy Smoky Mountain proposal with fall colors and a glowing sunset. He even sent reference photos from my gallery, which told me he really wanted this moment to feel perfect for her.

We chatted for a bit, and then he disappeared for a week. Eventually, he emailed again and told me work had consumed him, but he still wanted to move forward. So we jumped right back into planning. He cared about every single detail, and I loved seeing how much effort he put into choosing the right location.

Choosing the Perfect Smoky Mountain Proposal Spot

We went through several locations, but I suggested the Foothills Parkway for a fall sunset proposal. The mountains look magical during golden hour, and the drive isn’t as long as Cades Cove. Plus, after the proposal they could celebrate with dinner in town.

When West sent me a photo of his girlfriend “for planning,” I instantly recognized her. I played it cool, but inside I was screaming. Then he quietly said, “She’s kind of an influencer…” And that’s when I knew—it was Kara. My heart dropped, but in the best way.

Yes, photographing influencers can feel extra stressful, but I’ve photographed so many proposals that I knew I could handle it.

The Almost-Missed-Sunset Moment

The date was set, my gear was ready, and I had my content creator JOY with me to help capture everything. Then I got that text.

“We’re running late!”

My stomach flipped because fall sunsets in the Smokies drop fast. We talked through it, and I told him that the lighting wouldn’t work if they pushed through that night. I wanted this moment to be perfect for them, not rushed and dark. It wasn’t his fault—they had family in town and he tried so hard to keep everything unnoticed.

So we moved it to the next day, and wow…the weather turned out stunning. Soft clouds. Crisp mountain air. Perfect golden fall vibes.

Setting Up the Perfect Proposal Moment

JOY and I arrived early and pretended to picnic while we held the spot. We even had to chase off a couple guys who wandered a bit too close to our “proposal zone.” We looked ridiculous but determined—and honestly, we had the best time.

When West and Kara arrived, my nerves went straight to the roof.

But then the moment unfolded.

And it was perfect.

The Big Moment & The Sweetest Reaction

I watched Kara’s face transform from confusion to pure joy. She looked shocked, emotional, and so, so happy. I could tell she tried to hold back tears, but that made it even sweeter. The way West looked at her said everything. Earlier, he had told me on the phone, “I know for sure she’s my dream girl.”

Tell me that’s not the most romantic thing ever.

My Best Advice for Planning a Smoky Mountain Proposal

If you’re planning a surprise proposal in the Smoky Mountains, here’s my honest advice:

Arrive on time and communicate any changes in the plan with your photographer. And trust the process.

Your dream girl deserves the perfect moment, and thoughtful planning always pays off.