Matthaei Botanical Gardens + UMMA Surprise Proposal in Ann Arbor | Kedar + Claire
Spring in Ann Arbor does something to people, and in Kedar and Claire's case, it made one of them get down on one knee. This surprise proposal at Matthaei Botanical Gardens turned into one of my favorite engagement sessions: a garden proposal, a conservatory full of green, and an afternoon wandering through the art museum downtown.
The Proposal at Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Kedar planned the whole thing, and Claire had no idea. He proposed right in front of the herb garden at Matthaei, surrounded by new spring growth. It was the kind of proposal that doesn't need a big production. A beautiful spot, the right person, and a very surprised Claire.
Warming Up in the Conservatory
After the proposal, we headed into the conservatory for photos. If you're picking a spot for an Ann Arbor engagement session, this is a good one for lush greenery, soft light, and a calm, almost hidden-away feeling, especially on a day when the weather isn't cooperating.
Moving Downtown to UMMA
Then we drove into town for a change of scenery at UMMA, the University of Michigan Museum of Art. UMMA is right across the street from the law quad (another Ann Arbor photo favorite). This is one of my favorite places to photograph couples when they want something less "garden" and more "art and architecture."
We photographed Kedar and Claire in front of a neon artwork, near a few Picassos, on the well-lit staircase, and at the bench by the elevators. The elevator bench has really harsh light, and I love it anyway. It's a vibe. It's moody and a little editorial, and it looks nothing like the soft, leafy photos from the morning, which is the point. (What's on view at UMMA changes, so the exact artwork you see will depend on when you go.)
Planning Photos at Matthaei Botanical Gardens
A few things worth knowing before you go:
Photo shoots of people at Matthaei require a fee, which is $50 per couple for engagement and couples portraits. You pay at the front desk and pick up a Photo Pass.
Tripods and extra gear beyond a hand-held camera aren't allowed in the conservatory on Saturdays, Sundays, and during tours and events.
Drones aren't allowed on University of Michigan property.
Weekday mornings are your best bet for quiet.
Planning Photos at UMMA
Shoots happen during regular museum hours, so you're sharing the galleries with visitors. You don’t need to ask permission in advance but you should make sure there isnt anything happening that would make it so you cant take photos that day if you’re planning this in advance. Check in with reception just to let them know you are taking photos and they’ll go over the rules with you.
No flash in the galleries.
Stay out of doorways, stairwells, elevators, gallery entrances, and walkways, and don't touch or move artwork, furniture, or signs. Staff can ask you to adjust or stop if you're in the way, so be flexible and patient.
Planning an Engagement Session in Ann Arbor?
If you're getting engaged or recently engaged and want photos somewhere that feels like you, whether that's a garden, a museum, or both in one afternoon, I'd love to hear about it. As an Ann Arbor wedding photographer, I help couples find locations and handle the permits and logistics. Let me help you out!
Congratulations, Kedar + Claire!