Florence Alabama Engagement: Alex and Rachel

Before heading up for some work and family fun in Memphis, I met up with these two for an engagement session in Florence, Alabama.  I met Rachel 6 years ago on a farm in a rural Alabama town.  It has been such a privilege to watch her grow into the woman she has become and now I am truly honored that she has asked me to be her wedding photographer.  When I arrived in Florence, I was so anxious to really get to know the man behind all her happiness.  My heart was warmed by the ways Alex shows so much respect for his bride and how much fun they have together.

The sun put on a show for us in Florence.  Our first photographs were at an historic home that one of Rachel’s sisters got us access to shoot.  The beautiful white exterior and long white columns on the nicely landscaped property were a dream to shoot.  I could have spent the whole session soaking in the way the light was hitting the historic architecture.  After a quick wardrobe change, we drove a couple of blocks to the Tennessee River to photograph some of the natural beauty of the area.  The sun was dropping and the cold winter temperatures were falling fast, but Alex and Rachel enjoyed the winter snuggles.  Next, we went over to a pedestrian bridge on an old railway trellis.  The old steel beams that seemed to stretch for miles and the setting sun left me wanting to freeze the moment.

Just when I was about ready to give this sweet couple a photography break, we noticed a man down the bridge proposing to his sweetheart.  Such an amazing moment for my photo journalistic heart to be able to capture a few images for this couple.  They even allowed me to take a few posed portraits for them.  So thankful I was in that place at that time to share in their moment.

This was an exciting and fun engagement session to say the least.  Thank you to Rachel’s family, Miriam and Monica, for assisting with the session.  Also thank you to my husband, Jonathan, for holding my diffusion panel and for not photo bombing the couple too much.  Now for the pictures of this sweet, happy couple.