A Christmas Snapshot

A few weeks ago I got a call from a guy who sounded more than just a bit nervous. He and his girlfriend were planning a trip to New York City. It would be their first visit here. He wasn't too nervous about that. He was also planning on proposing to her in front of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center. That was the nervous part. He wanted me photograph that moment. No problem: I assured him it would be simple enough to do- my part, anyway. He of course, was not at all that sure or easily assured. So, that call was to be the first of many calls and e-mails between us as the day got closer. Finally a few days before his arrival, I stopped by Rockefeller Center, shot a few snapshots and sent them to him, along with a map I drew. “Here is where I will be waiting; here's a picture of me; here is the tree; here is where you stop and propose; don't worry!”

His last call came from the men's room of the restaurant where they were having dinner. They were leaving in a few minutes. Was I ready? Which street again? 15 minutes later I fell into step a dozen feet behind them as they walked along West 50^th Street. He found the spot I had picked out. He looked back, saw me ready and probably for the first time in a month, he relaxed.  He proposed.  I shot.

And yes, she said “Yes!”

Every once in a while I get a reminder of how lucky I am to be making a living doing something I truly enjoy. This was one of them. I also wanted to share that photo here: good stuff and happy times.

Merry Christmas!

Ps: As I was shooting, I heard one of the security guys remark to another: "Hey, another proposal."  It is New York City after all.