Family Photo Resources

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Search articles about locations, clothing, children, dogs, accessibility and planning your session.

Plan Your Session

A little planning can make your family photo session feel far easier—and much more enjoyable. Find practical advice on what to wear, when to schedule your session, what to bring, and what to expect once we get started.

Grandma and Grandpa Are Coming, Too

When Grandma and Grandpa join the family photo session, the location matters. Here is how I choose beautiful Smoky Mountain spots that are easier to reach, easier to navigate and enjoyable for every generation.

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Three Tips for Keeping Kids Happy During a Family Photo Session

Worried your kids will not sit still during family photos? Good—they do not have to. A little water, room to play, snacks, breaks, and clothes that can survive some dirt can make the session happier for everyone.

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What to Wear for Fall Family Photos in the Smoky Mountains

You probably already own the right clothes for fall family photos—though Mom is welcome to use this as an excuse for a new sweater. Choose colors and textures that suit the Smokies, and above all, wear what feels like you.

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Children and Families

Children do not need to sit perfectly still or smile on command to create wonderful family photographs. These articles offer realistic advice for keeping babies, toddlers, older children—and their parents—comfortable and happy throughout the session.

Family Photo Resources

Three Tips for Keeping Kids Happy During a Family Photo Session

Worried your kids will not sit still during family photos? Good—they do not have to. A little water, room to play, snacks, breaks, and clothes that can survive some dirt can make the session happier for everyone.

Read more →

Pets

Dogs are part of the family, too—and they are welcome at many of my sessions. Learn where dogs are permitted, how to prepare them for photographs and what helps make a dog-friendly session relaxed, safe and fun.

Seasons and Weather

The Smokies can look entirely different from one season—or one hour—to the next. These articles explain what to expect from fall color, summer heat, winter weather, changing light and the occasional forecast that refuses to cooperate.

Smoky Mountain Locations

Mountain views, quiet rivers, historic cabins and forest trails all create very different photographs. Explore some of my favorite Smoky Mountain locations and learn which settings may work best for your family, schedule and comfort level.

Family Photo Resources

The Pearl Harbor Tree: A Quiet Piece of History Hidden in Cades Cove

A hidden treasure waits for you to discover it in Cades Cove. This monument reflects the memory of a pivotal day in the history of the United States. Yet many never know to visit!

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Grandparents and Accessibility

Every generation deserves to be included. Discover ways to plan a multigenerational family session around mobility, comfort and easy access without giving up the beautiful Smoky Mountain scenery everyone came to enjoy.

Celebrations and Group Trips

Couples and engagements, family reunions, milestone birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette weekends and girls’ trips are all worth remembering. Find ideas for turning your Smoky Mountain gathering into an experience that feels celebratory rather than staged.

Real Stories

See how real families spent their time in front of my camera. These session stories highlight the people, places and unexpected moments that made each experience—and the photographs it produced—uniquely their own.