JACKSON, Wyo. — Matt Deehan was one of the many who participated in Fall Clean Up on Monday when, bulging bags and all, he stumbled upon an unforgettable ‘Kodak moment.’
To say Deehan stumbles upon any frame-worthy photographic scene is to discount his knack for wildlife stalking. As a guide with Jackson Hole Ecotour Adventures, Deehan regularly ‘stumbles’ upon a grizzly, moose, wolves, and more as he tours through Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks.
But on this particular Monday Deehan was picking up trash, doing his part helping to keep his community clean when he walked straight into a magical moment.
“I was head down, picking up discarded fishing line and an old ‘Brazil Futbol’ ballcap when I looked up and saw something that froze me in place,” Deehan recalls. “I kept my distance; 25 yards is customary unless it’s a griz or a pack of wolves. I stayed hidden.”
What Deehan saw was a gentleman on bended knee, obviously proposing to his lady. He snapped a shot but immediately felt like a voyeur. After all, this was no moose munching willows or even two grizzly cubs in an adorable wrestling match. This was a tender moment.
Slowly, Deehan advanced to get a better look when he was spotted. The newly engaged bride-to-be waived him in encouragingly.
Deehan introduced himself and offered to airdrop the photo to them for their scrapbook. They were beyond tickled.
Fall Clean Up organizer April Norton asked participants to send her any shots they got showing their hard work. She likely never imagined this one.
To Matt: Great shot, man! Keep up the good work with JH Ecotour Adventures. We love following you.
To the mystery couple: Congrats! Buckrail is so excited for you two and what lies ahead.
