Golden Hour at the Farm

Have you ever had a vision of yourself just frolicking in the field for no reason? Maybe dancing in the rain just because? Something about allowing ourselves to feel free, in the moment and a dash of “who cares” confidence was the vision of last nights session. I must admit, it should ALWAYS be the vision.

Anna danced, ran, laughed, and embraced herself fully. I couldn't be more thrilled with this session or the client (friend) who was help creating, too. I felt like it was worthy of its own space here and to explain more to why I decided on a whim to want to do this.

Sometimes I recognize when I lose my vision for the most artsier side of myself. I’m human and going through the stresses of my own personal life can be daunting and not so exciting.. I wanted to get excited again. It can look different at any moment but in this one, I just wanted to chase a sunset and capture what many want to personally feel. Free.

Free of stress.

Free of pain.

Free of worrying.

Free of letting go of what you can not control.

In the world of photography, not much is out of bounds. Art is shown in many forms. This so happens to be my creative outlet~

I think what these sessions do for photographers are something magical but what they can even do for you?… priceless. This can also be some type of way to release whatever you have going on and be in the moment and I think there is something extremely powerful in that. Anna let me know that after two years, she was finally allowing herself to be captured like this again and it made my heart so happy I got to do that for her.

Feel. Touch. Explore. Smell. Listen.

Allowing yourself to open your mind and senses to these sessions or even letting the artist help you with the poses or letting loose, is so freeing, relaxing and very fun. I can’t wait for my next project already with so many ideas in my head ~ they are flowing like a river and ready to break though.

As much as I love family sessions (LOVE meeting new people), these portrait/lifestyle sessions make my heart happy and realize why I started in the first place.

Story telling.

My vision is clear to me, but you also get to look at these images, look at the story I am telling and come up with something magical on your own.

Isn’t art fascinating? I sure think so.

Trust yourself.

Trust the process.

Story telling is a form of self expression. A form of being able to be whomever you want to be or showcase yourself. My favorite thing as a photographer is being able to show you the images and you getting to see the true beauty you truly are.

Take the shot, you won’t regret it.

Capturing Precious Moments: The Importance of Family Photography Sessions

In our fast-paced world, where time seems to fly by in the blink of an eye, it's crucial to capture the moments that matter the most. Family, being the cornerstone of our lives, holds a special place in our hearts. Preserving the memories we create with our loved ones is a priceless treasure. That's where special family photography sessions come into play. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of these sessions and why they are so important to capture those irreplaceable moments.

Celebrating connection and togetherness

A special family photography session provides an opportunity to celebrate the unique bond shared among family members. It allows us to freeze-frame the love, laughter, and affection that define our relationships. Whether it's a big family gathering or an intimate session, these photos capture the essence of togetherness, reminding us of the love and support that surrounds us.

Documenting growth and milestones

From the arrival of a newborn to watching children grow and achieve important milestones, a family photography session helps document the journey of each family member. These sessions provide a visual timeline that showcases the growth and development of your family, allowing you to relive those cherished memories years down the line. They become invaluable reminders of how far you've come as a family.

Preserving memories for generations to come

Photographs have the power to transcend time and create a lasting legacy. Special family sessions allow you to create heirlooms that can be passed down through generations. These photographs serve as a tangible connection to your family's history, providing future generations with a glimpse into their roots. They become treasured artifacts, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of belonging and identity.

Capturing authentic moments and emotions

One of the most beautiful aspects of family photography sessions is their ability to capture genuine emotions and candid moments. Unlike posed studio portraits, these sessions allow families to interact naturally, resulting in photographs that truly reflect their personalities and dynamics. Whether it's a shared laugh, a tender embrace, or a playful interaction, these authentic moments become lifelong reminders of the joy and love within your family.

Building stronger bonds

Engaging in a family photography session is not just about capturing memories; it's also about creating new ones. The experience of being together, focusing on each other, and sharing laughter and affection during the session strengthens the bond among family members. It becomes a shared activity that fosters deeper connections and creates lasting memories beyond the photographs themselves.

Family photography sessions hold immense significance in our lives. They provide an avenue to celebrate the unique bond shared among family members, document growth and milestones, preserve memories for future generations, capture authentic moments and emotions, and strengthen family bonds. Investing in these sessions is an investment in the legacy of your family, enabling you to create a treasure trove of memories that will be cherished for years to come. So, seize the opportunity to freeze time, capture the love, and create a visual story of your family's journey.

Preparing for Your First Professional Photography Session: Tips and Tricks

Embarking on your first professional photography session can be an exhilarating yet nerve-wracking experience. Whether you're a budding photographer or a client seeking stunning visuals, proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable session. In this blog post, I'll provide you with valuable tips and tricks to help you make the most of your first professional photography experience.

1. Define your objectives:

Before diving into the logistics, it's crucial to clarify your goals and expectations for the session. Are you looking to capture memorable family portraits, showcase your product line, or build a professional portfolio? Understanding your purpose will guide the photographer in delivering the results you desire.

Research and communicate with your photographer:

Take the time to research and choose a professional photographer whose style aligns with your vision. Review their portfolio, read client testimonials, and engage in open communication to discuss your ideas, preferences, and any specific requirements. Collaboration and clear communication are the foundations for a successful shoot.

Plan your concept and location:

Once you have chosen your photographer, work together to conceptualize the session. Discuss the theme, mood, and overall feel you want to achieve. Choose a location that complements your concept, whether it's a studio, outdoor setting, or a specific venue. Research and scout potential locations in advance to ensure they align with your desired aesthetic.

Coordinate outfit and props:

The choice of outfits and props can greatly enhance the visual impact of your photographs. Select attire that reflects your personality and fits the desired theme. Ensure that all participants' outfits are coordinated in terms of color palette and style, without being too matchy-matchy. If you plan to incorporate props, gather them ahead of time and ensure they are in good condition.

Prepare for the session:

Pay attention to the details that can make a significant difference in your photos. Prioritize personal grooming, such as haircuts, makeup, and manicures, based on your preferences and the purpose of the shoot. Iron or steam clothes to remove wrinkles and pack them carefully to avoid creases during transportation.

Embrace the experience:

Remember, a professional photography session is not just about capturing beautiful images—it's also about enjoying the process. Relax, be yourself, and trust in the expertise of your photographer. Allow spontaneity and natural interactions to shine through, resulting in authentic and captivating photographs.

Remember, a professional photography session is not just about capturing beautiful images—it's also about enjoying the process. Relax, be yourself, and trust in the expertise of your photographer. Allow spontaneity and natural interactions to shine through, resulting in authentic and captivating photographs.

How to Pick the Right Location for Your Session

As a photographer, choosing the right location for your photography session is crucial to the success of your shoot. A good location can make all the difference in the world, so it's important to take the time to choose the perfect spot. Here are some tips to help you pick a location for your photography session.

Consider your client’s preferences

Before you start looking for locations, it's important to consider your client's preferences. Ask them what type of environment they would like to be photographed in, and what kind of mood they want to create. If they're not sure, ask them to send you a few examples of images they like. This will give you a good starting point for choosing the right location.

I always have a location list handy and a detailed description of each spot. This is extremely helpful for anyone who is booking out of town.

Determine the purpose of the shoot

The purpose of the shoot will also play a role in determining the location. For example, if you're shooting engagement photos, you might want to choose a location that has special meaning to the couple. If you're shooting a fashion shoot, you'll want to choose a location that has a certain look or feel.

Look for natural light

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a location is lighting. Natural light is always best, so look for locations that have plenty of it. Avoid shooting in harsh midday sun, as this can create unflattering shadows and make your subject squint. Instead, aim to shoot during the "golden hour" – the hour before sunset or after sunrise – when the light is soft and warm.

Consider the backdrop

The backdrop is another important factor to consider when choosing a location. Look for locations that have interesting or unique backdrops, such as a colorful mural, a natural landscape, or an urban cityscape. Avoid locations that are too busy or cluttered, as this can be distracting and take away from your subject.

In conclusion, choosing the right location for your photography session takes time and effort, but it's worth it in the end. By considering your client's preferences, the purpose of the shoot, natural light, the backdrop, and any permits or fees, you can ensure that your shoot is a success.

Happy shooting!

Krystal & Taylor | Engagement Session

Rain, rain - DON’T GO AWAY~

In all my years of photography, this past year, I have been so thankful for these rainy days. Why? because not every single session has to provide the perfect golden hour glow or sunny day. Do we love that lighting? Absolutely! I also love and apprecaite whatever the weather brings my way. Photography is a form of expression. I express my work through my art in photographs. I get so dang inspired when something that doesn’t go my way completely, and gives me a challenge. This rain did honestly exactly that, it challenged me.

Krystal contacted me a while back and told me how she wanted to finally get those engagement photos that she never booked. It seemed like every time they had a chance to do it, something kept coming up.. I loved when she told me, “My dear mama always did say if I didn’t have bad luck I wouldn’t have any luck at all”. I love even more that I got to be the one to do this for these two. They are so special and their line of work makes me appreciate them so much more. Krystal is a nurse and Taylor, he’s an officer. Power couple and mannnnn did it show through these images.

Can you say HOLY SMOKE SHOW?! They brought the h e a t to this session.

If it isn’t obvious… Weather doesn’t deter me, poses don’t deter me.. I am a gal who loves the art of photography and she is down for almost everything over here. They rocked the whole entire thing and were open to all of my crazy ideas + they had a lot of poses on their own. They just naturally jived with the camera and their personality really came through. Which is the MOST important thing for me! Poses.. sure. Real and raw.. pleaseeee.

I love my job. I really do. I also love being able to meet new faces and connecting on a more personal level. These two are so in love and I am so excited for them to start this new, beautiful journey together.

Dreamy Gatlinburg Overlook Proposal

Landon & Lindsey Proposal Session | Gatlinburg Overlook

Snow top mountains & gorgeous sunshine coming through for this session

Landon had reached out wanting to pop the question in a stunning location right before their dinner at the Peddlar. We had went back and forth over a couple locations, but at the end, the Gatlinburg Overlook was chosen and it was the P E R F E C T choice! The mountains just recently had snow and they were showing through with all the sunshine we had that evening. It felt like a work of art behind them.

Living and working in this area we have so many beautiful spots to ask the love of your life for your hand in marriage, and I am so thankful for that! Oh, and she said YES!

How to plan a proposal when you are out of state:

Okay, okayyy I know how hard this is! Finding the right photographer who will communicate with you throughout the process and finding that location that is going to make the love of your life just be in complete shock and awe over the whole event. I want that for you! You deserve to invest in a BEAUTIFUL proposal!! After all, this is h u g e and we want it to go smooth and prefect.

The goal over here, when we go over your vision, is helping you out with locations and give you details of each potential spot you have mind. I want to make this whole thing so easy for you, because you get to enjoy this process too, with no stress! I got you. I make sure to send a detailed list of each spot with their addresses (so you can see the distance from your rental) and the images to give you the best visual of the location.

~Easy as pie

This will absolutely stay being one of my fave little sessions on the mountain top. I will always, alwaysss encourage to have a pro photographer ready to capture such a special and beautiful moment because having those still images are always going to be something you both, maybe even your children, to look back on for many years.

Lexi & Jace | Maternity Session

That Golden Glow

& that pregnancy glow.

Holy moly, Lexi delivered in that gorgeous green dress that she literally got from good ol’ faithful, AKA Amazon~ I was just so excited from the moment I saw her and how perfect the evening turned out. I KNEW that it was going to be an amazing gallery from the start. I tend to blab out during my sessions about how good the images already look because I am hype and I want to reassure my clients that we are getting SUCH GOOD STUFF. Honestly, Can’t stop, won’t stop. haha

Maternity sessions tend to be just a little longer than a full session. I am working different angles, variety of poses, and allowing enough time for an outfit change or for mama-to-be catch her breath from walking. #ifyouknowyouknow

Lexi chose the farm and I will forever say ~ SMART CHOICE GIRLFRIEND!

The variety is insane, the mountain views are beautiful, the golden hours are the best, we have a pond. Broken record? Maybe! Worth it still? Totally! I mean… even the horses posed for a shot..

The energy I have this morning could truly go unmatched with the caffeine intake I’ve had thus far and finishing a gallery is always exciting to check off the list, BUT - I am so excited to see so many reoccurring and new faces this year. I have come to learn that I never get tired of photographing at the farm, I’m loving these maternity sessions, and I love making new friends.

Here are more stunning images from Lexi’s gorgeously, golden maternity session~

Joy + Antwane | Farm Location

So, city style meets farm. Does it work? The answer is YES! I was blown away by the whole entire session and I was totally bummed when I couldn’t share my sneak peek to Facebook right away (some reason my account is restricted by someone that keeps reporting my posts, so that’s nice.). It wasn't going to stop me from sharing so I just made a blog post out of it because it’s FIRE.

I wish I could’ve taken credit to “que the fog”, but it just happened to be insanely foggy that morning from all the rain we had gotten - again, it just did not disappoint my creative heart. Ia felt like it just added this awesome touch to the images and gave it a whole new vibe. Rainy weather on the farm = foggy backdrops. It’s also giving me flashbacks from my foggy maternity session (Jasmin + Trent session).

Not all holiday sessions are going to look the same & that’s totally great. I get to photograph each session in it’s own unique fashion. That’s what makes it yours.

So Joy did wear the amazing heels throughout the session but it did not stop her from getting into those woods or climbing up the hill to get the shot. Sometimes pushing yourself to adventure a bit more is going to give you a bit more drama to your images and I am so glad she accepted the challenge! Heels & all - she was a total badass. We went all around, at least to the parts that weren’t swarming in mud baths. We had a rain for a week straight so I was just glad it held off for us to make this all possible!

Though I am currently hyped up on peppermint mocha coffee, lol, I won’t write a novel about the whole session (because I totally could). I am just grateful for how it all turned out and feels like the coolest album cover ever. Shout out these two for trusting me to get these amazing shots and traveling around our rainy, mess of a farm.

Good Old Fashioned Family Christmas

Channeling our inner Griswold’s, we had to capture our matching Christmas jammies! After all, this is our absolute favorite time of the year. We are the family that has the tree up by November 1st, can quote several holiday movies, and that eggnog with the nutmeg on top. Mom & dad’s is spiked of course, lol. What a blast this was and the sunset was amazing. Tad windy, but fun.

I knew I wanted something outdoors and being a photographer myself, I sometimes have particular needs and I just knew the farm, with that backdrop, was exactly what I visioned for these. My Mother came to help with my ideas as I helped with posing. Just this time in front of the camera. :) Just to make it fun and the kids had a BLAST! I always get surprised, even though I shouldn’t by now, at how good my family is with pictures. I truly got lucky with that one.

Now I can not take full credit for pulling this off. My guy got the jammies for all of us and it turned out SO GOOD. I’m thinking he just started a yearly tradition, sorry kids. Anything to jazz up Christmas even more - I’m IN. I will be sure to add the link just in case anyone else is in that jolly spirit, too.

We are wishing you an amazing holiday season with the ones you love the most.

Field’s Family Session | Dandridge, TN

If you want to talk about the PERFECT fall evening, this was one so memorable to me. The lighting, the golden glow, and those colorful mountains in the background. Tennessee, at least in our neck of the woods, had an early fall this year and the colors popped early. Which luckily for the Field’s family, they got that backdrop just in time!

I always tell my clients that the farm, because this was the shooting location, is beautiful in every season. There is something about those colorful mountains though that almost come off as a painting and leaves you in absolute awe.

What made the session a bit more special is that the kiddos grandparents got to be apart of it. I always encourage this because getting everyone together for this makes it so much more special! So if you are ever debating on making it a fun family session, do it! They are always good to have around to even help the kids laugh and get those genuine smiles.

I always love getting those individual shots of the kids, too. So any laughs & fun for the ones who aren’t so much into the session is super helpful!

What an awesome time with this crew and venturing around the farm to get those picture perfect shots & candids for them to look back years to come. Hopefully whenever any of my past clients are visiting in the area again, will come back for another, updated session & to catch up! Love getting to see so many grow.

How To Turn Your Photos Into Gifts For The Family

It’s the most wonderful time of the yearrrrrrrrr! Gathering all the sweet ideas to gift to the family that you so desperately want to be unique & meaningful. If this sounds like you, I get it. I used to be the gift card queen because I wasn’t ever sure what to get that would make my gift stand out a bit more. Being in the photography business though, I get to see the true meaning of gifting - PHOTOGRAPHY!

There are so many amazing ideas to gift to the family that will really WOW them. Whether it is your family, your friends or the love of your life- this is always going to be a timeless gift for anyone. So with that being said, I knew I had to help out all my fellow Christmas lovers (or grinches) out for the holiday season. After all…. this is the season of giving!

I may earn compensation from the links in this post. I delicately pick out content that I think my readers would enjoy. Thank you so much for your support, always.

Twas the 1st day of Christmas & my true love gave to me- Photography Photo Book-

Oh yes, I had to go with the classic photography book, BUT - hear me out - They make them so beautiful and so aesthetically pleasing now, they look AMAZING on tabletops. This is always a fun one to design, too. You can add words in your books also that will stand out & add more meaning to it. You can choose from hard covers, leather, to soft + so much more.

Shutterfly is doing an amazing sale right now!

Twas the 2nd day of Christmas my true love gave to me - Digital Photo

Digital frames are the COOLEST. This gives so much variety & they get to switch it up whenever they want! This will always, always be a big hit for anyone who loves to take photos or have them in their home. Technology just keeps getting better & this is by far one of my fave inventions. I have been on the search for the deals and I found one for the frame!! This is a limited time deal & I posted the link below.

Twas the 3rd day of Christmas my true love gave to me - Personalized Photo Ornament

Ok, ok but who doesn’t love a super personal touch to the tree?! Even my kids love their faces on the tree! It makes it just feel so warm & loving. Gift these to parents or grandparents & they will be over the moon excited! Other ideas are - graduates, just married, new parents, bought their first home, engagement, etc.

Twas the 4th day of Christmas my true love gave to me - Personalized Puzzle

These are so fun for both adults & kiddos!! It’s an inexpensive gift but such a thoughtful one to have. I always think they are super cute under the table or out for “decor” because they can make such cute pieces in your home. I found a set that is super adorable & guaranteed to arrive in time before Christmas!

Twas the 5th day of Christmas my true love gave to me - Photo Calendar

For anyone who has that office- it’s like their home away from home. So special & gives you the opportunity to select several photos to choose from so your loved one can enjoy them all year!

Wishing you the happiest of holidays filled with love & photography goodies. Thanks, as always, for supporting small.