A Coral Gables Proposal Photographer’s Story: Zoli & Chava

As a Coral Gables proposal photographer, there are few moments I get to witness that are more emotional than a surprise proposal.

It’s one of the reasons I love photographing them. You only get one chance to capture the genuine emotion, the excitement, and the complete surprise of the moment. There’s no second take.

One day, Zoli reached out to me through Instagram with an exciting plan.

He was preparing to propose to Chava and wanted every second documented without her having the slightest idea I was there.

The proposal was taking place at a stunning waterfront estate in Coral Gables. We coordinated every detail ahead of time so everything would feel completely natural. The plan was simple: I’d arrive early, stay hidden until the perfect moment, and capture both photographs and cinematic video as everything unfolded.

With one camera mounted on my gimbal for smooth cinematic footage and another camera in hand for still photographs, I tucked myself into the landscaping overlooking the property and waited.

A few minutes later, Chava arrived.

As they greeted one another, Zoli casually walked over to her before dropping down onto one knee.

Her reaction was unforgettable.

She immediately covered her mouth in complete shock as tears filled her eyes. It was one of those authentic moments you simply can’t pose or recreate. Watching the emotion unfold in real time is exactly why I love documenting surprise proposals.

Of course…

She said yes.

After giving them a few moments to simply enjoy the occasion together, I introduced myself and we began photographing around the property while they soaked in the excitement of what had just happened.

The home itself was an incredible backdrop. We explored different areas of the estate before making our way to a beautiful seating area overlooking the water. As the evening light softened, we created a collection of relaxed portraits that captured not only the excitement of the proposal but also the quiet moments afterward, when everything finally began to sink in.

By the end of the session, they couldn’t stop smiling.

I delivered both the proposal film and the photographs shortly afterward, and Zoli was thrilled with how everything turned out.

In fact, he loved the experience so much that he asked my team and me to photograph and film their wedding as well.

Not long afterward, we documented their wedding day from beginning to end. It was another incredible celebration, and seeing their story come full circle—from proposal to wedding—was something truly special.

But what makes this story even more meaningful is what happened after the wedding.

What began as a single surprise proposal turned into an ongoing friendship and professional relationship.

Today, Zoli is the founder and CEO of Short Form Media, where he helps businesses create engaging social media content. Over the years we’ve had the opportunity to recommend one another for projects, collaborate on productions, and work independently for many of the same clients. I always enjoy working alongside him, and it’s been exciting watching both of our businesses continue to grow.

It’s a reminder that you never really know where one project will lead.

Sometimes it’s a proposal.

Sometimes it’s a wedding.

Sometimes it becomes years of collaboration, referrals, and friendship.

That’s one of my favorite parts of this business.

My goal has never been simply to deliver beautiful photographs and films. It’s to create an experience that people genuinely enjoy—one that leaves them excited to work together again and confident recommending me to the people they care about.

Zoli and Chava’s story is a perfect example of that.

What Zoli Had to Say

Zoli Honig “I first hired Dov to film and photograph my proposal. Then I hired him for my wedding. Now I work with him on a monthly basis for my clients. A pleasure to work with and such a talented guy”

Planning a Surprise Proposal?

Whether you’re looking for a Coral Gables proposal photographer or planning a surprise proposal, engagement session, or wedding elsewhere in South Florida, I’d love to help you create something authentic, emotional, and timeless. From choosing the perfect location to helping coordinate every detail behind the scenes, I’ll make sure you can stay fully present while every meaningful moment is beautifully preserved.

→ Explore my Couples, Proposal & Wedding Photography Portfolio

Curious what a proposal or elopement film like this costs? I break it down in my elopement videographer pricing guide. You can also explore my Elopement & Proposal services directly, or get in touch to start planning yours.