Proposals are probably one of my favorite parts of my job. I mentioned to one of my friends that I was shooting this proposal and she looked to me and said, “I think this might be a niche for you.” I hadn’t realized it until she said so but I have photographed a LOT of proposals which is surprising because it’s not as common in the wedding industry. I’ll take it and run though because if I could shoot a proposal every day I would!! I always thought it would be cool to be a private investigator and although shooting a proposal isn’t quite the same, I still like to assume the role of secret agent. From my very first email after booking a proposal, I have to be so secretive. I can’t tell anyone what I’m doing or where I’m going, I have to wear clothes that blend in, I have to tell the guy to put me in his phone as one of his friends’ names so that if I text, I don’t tip the bride off, I have to have a super long lens and hide where I can’t be seen, and the list goes on. It’s nerve-racking but I’m full of adrenaline watching and waiting for it to happen.

I was so excited when I got Pat’s inquiry for his Pippin Hill Farm proposal. I’ve second shot so many weddings at this beautiful Charlottesville venue but I’ve never gotten to do my own portraits there. Pat got permission to do his proposal and a few engagement photos there and for the past few months, I’ve been looking forward to it! Pat and Lesya are high school sweethearts and have been dating for TEN YEARS! Their ten-year anniversary was the day this proposal took place — so special. Pat and Lesya, I hope you had the most incredible weekend celebrating this amazing season! You deserve it and I’m happy to share a few of my favorites from your session today!! Enjoy!