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Jacob and Jillian's Proposal at New Elements Gallery

Virginia Gates

As a photographer, I have a certain list. A bucket list, if you will, of sessions I would LOVE to capture. I tend to keep it pretty private, offering model calls and discounts where I can to try and knock another session off my list. I happened to be visiting my best friend (Hi, Cozzie!) at New Elements Gallery when the owner of the gallery (Hi, Miriam!) said that there was going to be a proposal there in a few weeks. My heart immediately jumped! *BUCKET LIST! BUCKET LIST!* So I asked if Jacob had a photographer and if not, would he be open to me shooting the engagement for my portfolio. Jacob was stoked and so was I! As a creative, I need projects that ignite my passion and push me outside of my box. In fact, I thrive on it. Giving is a big part of what I do with my business, when I see a chance to give I like to seize it, especially if it helps me on my creative path.

The plan was simple, Jacob would be leading his soon-to-be fiancee to the gallery at 5:00 where he had hung his own digital artwork OF HIM PROPOSING in the OUTFITS THEY WERE WEARING! Sorry to go all caps on y'all, but if that's not the sweetest, most thoughtful thing I don't know what is. 

I mean, y'all. I get choked up even seeing this. It's so adorable and took some serious time and planning!

I mean, y'all. I get choked up even seeing this. It's so adorable and took some serious time and planning!

So I arrived at 4:30 on the big day and got in place behind the curtains in the back of the gallery, anxiously awaiting Jacob and Jillian's arrival. I'm not going to lie, I was sweating bullets! Like every session, I have a vision going into it. Whether that pans out or not, well, that's another thing. But I knew I wanted to capture the raw emotion of this huge moment for this couple. 

A little selfie action with my Sony A7 and my trusty nifty fifty.

A little selfie action with my Sony A7 and my trusty nifty fifty.

Jacob led Jillian around the gallery as I held my breath, casually they walked by his image and he got down on one knee. I had to burst through the curtains to get a better angle, but she said yes! I am so excited to have been able to capture this moment for Jacob and Jillian. Jillian said the only thing that even hinted at the proposal was the fact that her Mom had her get a manicure and that Jacob had a set schedule for their date night. I wish the couple all the best in their marriage, grace with each other is the key. I hope you enjoy the photos below as much as I enjoyed taking them.