Capturing Timeless Bonds: The Value of Family Photography Beyond Childhood

Family of four with grown children photo session at Sarah Benson Park

Today, I want to chat about something that might resonate with many of us—family photos. We often associate these snapshots of love, laughter, and chaos with the early years of parenting, but let’s flip the lens and focus on why family photos remain crucial even when your kids are all grown up or nearly there.

  1. Time Flies Faster Than We Realize: It feels like just yesterday we were chasing after our little ones with a camera, capturing every milestone. Now, those tiny feet have grown into bigger shoes, and life seems to be on a fast track. Family photos serve as cherished bookmarks, freezing a moment in the whirlwind of time.
  2. Documenting Evolution and Growth: As our children transition from adolescence to adulthood, they evolve—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Family photos at this stage capture these transformations, providing a visual timeline of growth, maturity, and the unique journey each family member undertakes.
  3. Celebrating New Chapters: Family dynamics shift as kids grow older. They move out, start their careers, or explore new paths. Gathering for family photos becomes an occasion to celebrate these new chapters, reconnecting and solidifying the bond that remains despite life’s changes.
  4. Creating Priceless Memories: The laughter shared during a family photoshoot, the inside jokes that resurface, the bittersweet nostalgia—these are the intangible treasures encapsulated within a single frame. They remind us of the love and unity that define our family.
  5. Preserving a Legacy: Family photos are a visual legacy. They serve as a testament to the relationships, values, and connections shared between generations. They become a treasure trove for future generations to understand their roots and the essence of family ties.

So, to all the parents out there whose kids are growing up way too fast—don’t let the notion of “grown-up” kids deter you from scheduling that family photoshoot. Embrace this new phase of life and capture the beauty of evolving relationships. These photos will be the heartwarming reminders of the journey you’ve shared and the journey that lies ahead.

Remember, it’s not about the perfect poses or matching outfits. It’s about capturing the authenticity and love that bind your family together—a timeless narrative frozen in a single click.

Capturing the Essence of Fall: A Senior Session Amid Vibrant Colors

Fall Senior Portrait Session in Brentwood TN with Crystal Freemon Photography

This determined senior aimed to capture the essence of fall in her senior photos. After a previous booking fell through, I was fortunate to accommodate her as one of my last sessions for the season. Worried about missing fall colors, she was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant scenes at Marcella Vivrette Smith Park.

While any time of the year is ideal for creating beautiful memories, those desiring the stunning autumn palette should be mindful of nature’s unpredictability.

Clients often ask about the best window for fall colors. While I can’t guarantee exact outcomes due to nature’s whims, I’ve found the last week of October and the first or second weekend of November to be optimal, aligning with the peak of fall colors in Middle Tennessee. Contrary to common belief, our best colors arrive later than expected, differing from regions up north or in the mountains of East Tennessee, where fall colors peak earlier in October.

As this is the most sought-after time for photos, my schedule fills up quickly during the summer. If fall color is important to you, don’t wait until the last minute to book. For other seasons, I offer more flexibility for dates, so consider the option of a beautiful winter or spring session.

This delightful session captures the beautiful fall vibes, and I’m thrilled the senior achieved the session she envisioned.

As the holiday season approaches, I want to let you know that I still have ONE MORE opening for my Santa Mini Sessions on November 19th. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture some magical moments with Nashville Santa, and the photos are perfect for Holiday Cards.

A Downtown Columbia Senior Girl Portrait Session

Senior girl portrait session in downtown Columbia with Crystal Freemon Photography

In the heart of downtown Columbia, I recently had the pleasure of photographing a senior girl whom I’ve known since she was about three years old. When I look at her now, it’s hard not to picture that sweet preschooler on the soccer field. It’s truly a joy to be able to capture this time for her and her family.

One aspect I’ve always cherished about senior sessions is the chance to connect with these young minds, full of dreams and aspirations. It used to be my routine to ask about their plans for the future, a conversation starter that often led to exciting discussions about college, careers, and the adventures awaiting them.

However, life has a way of shifting perspectives, and as a senior parent myself now, I’ve come to realize the immense pressure our youth face in making these decisions. The stress of choosing the right path can be overwhelming, and it’s something I no longer casually inquire about.

Navigating the future can be daunting. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer or perfect path. To the seniors I once asked about future plans, I now understand the immense pressure and apologize for being yet another adult expecting you to have all the answers.

Standing on the brink of a new chapter, I hope they are able to take a moment, breathe, and appreciate the journey. That is easier said than done, I know. I wish I could ease the stress and assure them they’ll be alright. There’s no single best path, college, or career choice. It’s essential to keep in mind that the journey may not be linear, and it’s okay not to have everything figured out.

As the holiday season approaches, I want to let you know that I still have ONE MORE opening for my Santa Mini Sessions on November 19th. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture some magical moments with Nashville Santa, and the photos are perfect for Holiday Cards.

Capturing the Magic: Senior Photoshoot at South 40 Farm

Senior girl photo session at South 40 farm by Crystal Freemon Phography

I’m in love with this senior photoshoot at South 40 Farm in Franklin, TN. Our day was a mix of cloudy skies and a surprise visit from the sun, reminding me that both cloudy and sunny days offer unique opportunities for incredible shots.

South 40 Farm is an absolutely perfect location for photography. I knew the fields and tall grasses would be a beautiful natural location. However, I wasn’t sure if the flowers would still be in bloom.

As luck would have it, South 40 Farm welcomed us with an array of colorful flowers that were still looking gorgeous.

Clouds and Sunshine: Each Has Its Charm

It was mostly cloudy, and my senior’s dad, like many before him, had concerns about how it would affect the photos. I totally get it. We often associate sunny days with ideal photoshoot conditions. However, I assured him that both cloudy and sunny days have their own unique charms.

The Allure of Cloudy Days :

We began our session with the cloudy skies acting as a natural diffuser. This soft, even light created a magical atmosphere, highlighting the vivid flowers and casting a dreamy quality over the images. Cloudy days bring out the details and colors, with no harsh shadows. The results are often incredibly flattering.

A Surprise Visitor: The Sun

Just as we were wrapping up, a magical moment happened. The sun decided to make a surprise appearance. Its warm rays filtered through the clouds, creating a delightful contrast to the earlier soft light. It was like getting the best of both worlds in one day.

In Conclusion

This photo shoot was a vivid reminder that the magic of photography isn’t confined to just one type of weather. Cloudy days offer a soft, diffused light that can be remarkably flattering, while sunny days provide the charm of vibrant, sunlit scenes. By embracing the dynamic nature of the weather, we were able to create a rich tapestry of images that perfectly captured the essence of the senior’s love for nature.

Whether you prefer the soft allure of a cloudy day or the vibrant energy of a sunny day, there’s beauty in every moment.

Searching for a photographer in Spring Hill, Franklin, and Columbia in Middle Tennessee? I specialize in capturing families at every stage, from newborns to seniors. Visit my website for more details or schedule a session through my online calendar. Your support means the world to me, so feel free to connect with me on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and beautiful photography!”

Senior Girl Photo Session at South 40 Farm

Senior Portrait Session at South 40 Farm by Crystal Freemon Photography

I’m getting a little teary-eyed with this one.

This beautiful family was one of my very first supporters in my foray into photography. They were my subjects when I had zero idea what I was doing, but just knew that I enjoyed capturing families in photos and wanted to learn more.

I found this photo from 11 years ago. It was taken when I was the MOMS club amateur photographer and we used to joke about how I would someday shoot senior photos for these kids…and that felt like a million years away.

But that million years went by SO QUICKLY. And now here we are. I have to figure out when to shoot photos of my own senior.

I had been eyeing South 40 Farm for quite some time as a location for sessions but had never been. But when I found out what this Senior was looking for in her photos, I knew it would be a great fit. Plus, it’s so much better for me to shoot at a brand new location with a family I’ve known forever, and who trusts me to recommend a session without having seen photos of other sessions there.

Now I wish I had gone earlier, because I’m in love with this location. I didn’t even get to all the spots I wanted to shoot.

Are you looking for a photographer in Spring Hill, Franklin, and Columbia in Middle Tennessee? I photograph families at all stages, from newborns to seniors. See my website for more information or book a session from my online calendar. I would love it if you considered following me on Facebook and/or Instagram.

Sunset Senior Pics in Franklin

Senior pics in Franklin TN

Once in a while, everything just comes together for a portrait session, and I know it’s going to be one of my favorites before I even get home. That’s the way I felt about this Senior Portrait Session in Franklin.

Everything was perfect. The senior guy was easy to work with. I LOVED his clothes – both the teal hoodie (one of my favorite portrait clothing colors) and the awesome suit and tennis shoes. The location was beautiful, and will definitely become one of my regular spots. The lighting was spectacular. And it wasn’t even hot, a bonus for Middle Tennessee in September.

AND there was a sweet dog. Need I say more?

Are you looking for a photographer in Spring Hill, Franklin, and Columbia in Middle Tennessee? I photograph families at all stages, from newborns to seniors. See my website for more information or book a session from my online calendar. I would love it if you considered following me on Facebook and/or Instagram.

Senior Photos at Pinkerton Park

Skate Boarder Senior pics at Pinkerton Park

O.K. y’all need to let me know when I’m missing out on good portrait session locations. I’ve shot photos many times at Pinkerton Park in Franklin but have never been out by the river. I have no idea why not. I guess I just thought it was a boat ramp. But besides the river, there is also a nice field and an overpass with graffiti. Why didn’t y’all tell me? What other spots am I missing?

I love a good graffiti vibe, especially for senior portraits (and especially for a Skateboarder!) but I also have a slight fear of posting something inappropriate. I admittedly photoshopped out a little of the art in these. I once read an article that was full of examples of photographers who had posted photos and not noticed some interesting NSFW graffiti in the background. So you all have to let me know if I do that too.

Are you looking for a photographer in Spring Hill, Franklin, and Columbia in Middle Tennessee? I photograph families at all stages, from newborns to seniors. See my website for more information or book a session from my online calendar. I would love it if you considered following me on Facebook and/or Instagram.

Summer Family Portrait Session at Winstead Hill Park

Family Portraits at Winstead Hill Park

This beautiful family braved the heat to fit a family portrait session in before the youngest went off to college in a couple of weeks. It was such a joy to spend some time getting to know them, and really the weather was tolerable for July in Tennessee.

To all the parents sending off for the first time, hugs to you. I’ll be there myself in one short year and I still can’t imagine it. But I am excited for all the adventures they are about to have and new seasons beginning for both kids and parents.