The couple had memories to make, and pictures to take, which they've since added to their collection of thousands chronicling their two-year relationship.
Acito of Oakland and Vigna of New Milford are celebrating their second Valentine's Day together, and they say each photograph they took alongside each other tells its own story.
Altogether, the shots play an integral role in their relationship.
"All of the photos show how far we've come as a couple," said Acito, 22, who met Vigna, 23, through mutual friends while she was a student at Paramus High School.
"We're always critiquing each other — we push each other."
Vigna says he's always enjoyed photography, but he wouldn't have pursued it if it weren't for his girlfriend.
"She was the one who put the idea of buying a camera in my head and I’m glad she did," he said.
"Nicole truly inspires me. She is always with me when we're going out to take pictures. I feel like since we both got cameras she’s always had the upper hand because she knew how to use her camera.
"Even by the time I learned how to use my camera, Nicole would still have nicer shots than I did."
The couple's shared passion has proven a getaway for both of them.
They frequent Norvin Green State Forest in Wanaque in the fall and find infinite possibilities in buildings, bridges and art in New York City.
"The list never ends, which is the beauty of New York," he said.
Acito and Vigna split Adobe Lightroom — a high-quality photo processor — which they hope will take their passion to the next level.
Vigna says he would travel and take photos for a living if he could, and Acito is hoping to go into family photography full-time.
Photography has taught Acito a lesson that goes beyond her hobby.
"Everything has beauty to it," she said. "It's up to you to find it."
KEEP UP:
- Nicole Acito Instagram: nacito_
- Eric Vigna Instagram: evigz
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