Nami Island can be a spectacular place for a photoshoot in any season, but autumn brings a truly special feeling to the island. It really is the perfect time for a Nami Island proposal. In early autumn as the leaves begin to change, the yellow and bronze hues of gingko and metasequoia trees dominate the avenues. But, late in the season, around a week (maybe two if you’re lucky) later, those are all but gone and only the maple trees remain. This blog will explore that time.
Another element that can bring an ethereal feeling to the valleys in Gapyeong County is the fog that comes with autumn’s extreme temperature changes. Mornings are far cooler than afternoons at this time of year as we begin the march into winter. For the first few hours of most days, this area is filled with a dense fog. Wei Shien’s proposal was on one of those days. As we woke up and saw how thick the fog was, we exchanged messages to decide if we wanted to wait it out, or not. In the end, we decided that it gave an other-wordly feeling to the island and we’d go ahead with the proposal at the scheduled time. This would avoid the incoming crowds as soon as the ferry started running.
Wei Shien and Sharmin arrived at the scene we had chosen right on time and took a moment to relive their time together while sitting at one of the picnic tables. I quietly watched from afar and got a few images of them before the big moment. As they moved onto the bridge, I stood up from my own table and got closer for the final shots. The morning fog locked them into this beautiful dream world that you see below.
Once the moment was over, Wei Shien introduced me to Sharmin and we skipped around the island together to make the most of the gorgeous scenery before the busloads of tourists arrived. We had the island almost completely to ourselves and the fog brought a cinematic quality to the images that isn’t possible at any other time of year.
We wrapped up our session after a walk around the island together and went back to our respective rooms for a much needed coffee before starting the rest of our respective days. I packed my bags and got ready to head back to Seoul. But as I was walking out the door, I saw the fog thinning and a soft sunlight beginning to come through my window. I texted Wei Shien and asked if they were still around and might like another 15 minutes of shooting under the gorgeous morning light. We met up and snagged a few beautiful images in the warmth of the morning sun before I headed for my ferry off the island.
All in all, it was a gorgeous autumn morning with a little of everything for the couple. A massive congratulations to you guys again and a big thanks for choosing me to document this moment for you. All the best together!
Looking to have your own proposal planned and documented in Korea? Please reach out! I’d love to hear from you! Also, don’t forget to follow my Instagram for seasonal updates!