Jillian and Justin | Engagement | Al Sabo Land Preserve | Kalamazoo, MI

Engagement shoots are a lot like first dates, just with two people on each side instead of one. When you drive up to your location, you are nervous. Maybe you've done this before, or maybe it's your first time. You check your mirror to make sure there's nothing stuck in your teeth and look around at all of the cars in the parking lot, waiting for the other party to show up. Suddenly, you see them, walking across the parking lot. For the first time, you are getting to see them in real-life, not on Instagram or through a video call; but in the flesh, right in front of you. It's still by far one of our favorite moments with our couples and with Jillian and Justin, it was the beginning of a beautiful (and eventful) evening!

These two started out as so many of our couples do: as simply friends. And for us, that's one of the most beautiful parts of their relationship; we could clearly tell from the first conversation that these two absolutely ADORE each other! From chatting about outfits to checking for bugs on the shoot, these two were such a team throughout the entire session, which just makes our job that much easier! Plus, can we just take a second to acknowledge that because they were able to pick THREE separate outfits, it looks like they were able to go on THREE different photoshoots in the same evening?

If you have been following us for a while, then you will know that Al Sabo is one of our favorite Kalamazoo locations, both for its beautiful variety and its incredible light! However, our favorite feature by far is still the fact that in order to get to the sun-lit field, we get to walk with our couples for at least 10-15 minutes! This time gives us a chance to not just be "photographers and clients" but to also become friends as we learn more about what they like, what they do, and who they are as people. Justin and Jillian both work in the medical field, which after this past year, we can only imagine the rough days they have bene through, and it makes us even more excited that they have something as beautiful as a wedding to look forward to!

Jillian and Justin, we had such an amazing adventure with you at Al Sabo last week! As we look through your photos one last time, we can so clearly see your love for each other, and after spending the evening with you, we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your love with continue to grow for years to come! We can't believe how blessed we are to have our path cross yours, and we are already looking forward to next time we see you two! Until then, all our best!

J + A

All photos are property of Josh and Andrea Photography LLC.