There’s nothing wrong with maintaining a budget or not wanting to spend the money on something you think is overpriced. But if you know that’s not the going rate, don’t expect to find it.

For the record: your budget of $200 is barely even a friend/family rate. “I’m operating on a budget” is a great way to have photographers avoid working with you.

Wedding photography is expensive, yes. That has been true for a long time. It’s fulfilling, but exhausting work. But most reasonable wedding photographers will credit an engagement session towards the wedding booking.

My advice: don’t spend money on photographing the proposal. Ask a friend / family member to do it. Keep it low key. Then talk with your future fiancé/SO and hire a wedding photographer (together) for a proper engagement session that both of you can prepare for together. I’m sure your partner will appreciate being involved instead of having a surprise photoshoot sprung on them.

Good luck!