Jason had it planned perfectly. First a concert he was performing in at CCM… Then he’d ask her to come help him get his things together. And there, among all of the bustling backstage, he’d get down on one knee and ask her to be his wife.

It was a moment they’d been talking about for a while, but Emily had no idea when it would be happening. Jason thought she’d be surprised – especially since he had a group of their friends (some from out of town) waiting for them afterward. He wanted someone there to capture it all. And he knew it would be a challenge since backstage is DARK. Like… really dark. Since constant flashes would kind of ruin the ambiance, the challenge was to capture that moment using only natural light. That’s where we came in. (As Barney Stinson would say, “Challenge accepted.”) In all honesty, Toby and I weren’t too worried about the light (especially since I’ve gotten used to crazy lighting for births). We were a little stressed about the timing of the proposal – and when Emily decided to come backstage early, we ended up having to scramble from our “lookout spot” to our little “hiding spot”. Luckily we made it in time.

It was perfect. Jason, you did an amazing job and it’s clear how much you guys love each other. It was an absolute pleasure to work with you both! Congratulations!!!

- Annie

Thanks so much the couples, kids, and families who made this year so wonderful!!! We’re especially grateful this year for all of the understanding and kind words that were sent our way as I struggled with (and beat!) cancer. We are so incredibly blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people.

Below are my favorite images from this year – no particular reason why other than these happened to be the ones that move me or that have stuck with me over the last 12 months. I had a super hard time narrowing these down – so many great weddings and shoots to choose from!!!

Here’s to an amazing 2011!
Annie