Category: Seniors & Teens

Spontaneous Change Leads to Perfect Senior Session

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Senior girl at matgic hour at the Park at Harlinsdale Farms

Sometimes the most beautiful moments in photography come from unexpected changes. This was certainly the case for this recent senior session, which took an unplanned but ultimately perfect turn.

We had originally scheduled to meet at Battle Ground Academy, but when we arrived, the campus was busy with sporting events. The crowds made intimate portraits difficult, so we relocated to Harlinsdale Farms.

This change turned out to be ideal. The weather was gorgeous, with beautiful afternoon light filtering through the historic farm buildings and across the open fields. What made this location even more meaningful was that I had photographed her family here years ago. Returning to capture her senior portraits created a nice full-circle moment.

I loved how she incorporated her college choice of Tulane into her wardrobe. These thoughtful details make senior portraits more meaningful – they’re not just about the end of high school, but celebrating the journey ahead.

Editing these images brought me so much joy. Her infectious laugh and genuine smile lit up every frame. Working with a senior whose personality shines through so naturally made my job easy and enjoyable.

This session reminded me that sometimes a backup plan turns out to be exactly where you were meant to be all along.

Winstead Hill Senior Session & Best Timing for Senior Pictures

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Senior portraits at Winstead Hill park in Franklin TN

Well it’s been a crazy weather week in Middle Tennessee. This was actually the second session in just a few days where we had to navigate around rain clouds, but I’m so glad we persisted. One of the things I enjoy most about photographing seniors is getting to know these teens as individuals. This particular session was special because we incorporated this senior’s love of reading and the outdoors. Including his favorite book in the photos added a personal touch, and as a book lover myself, it’s one of my favorite props to include in sessions. Despite the weather challenges, we found breaks in the rain to create some great shots in the natural setting he was hoping for.

Timing Options for Senior Portraits

As the Class of 2025 begins their last few weeks of school, this seems like a good time to address questions about senior portrait timing. There’s no single “best” season—each time of year offers different advantages depending on your senior’s schedule and preferences.

Summer

Summer sessions offer a wonderfully low-stress option before the whirlwind of senior year activities begins. With more flexible schedules, we can easily work around family vacations and summer jobs. Plus, that summer glow can make for radiant portraits! Don’t let concerns about heat deter you—early mornings or evenings provide beautiful light and comfortable temperatures.

Fall

The rich colors of autumn create a stunning backdrop, which is why fall becomes my busiest season. If you’re dreaming of those golden-hour portraits with colorful leaves, book well in advance! These slots fill quickly every year, sometimes months ahead.

Winter

Winter sessions yield some of my most unique and striking senior portraits. The dramatic bare trees and soft, diffused winter light can create distinctive, striking images. Success with winter sessions comes down to flexibility—we may need to reschedule if temperatures drop too low, but the results are worth the extra coordination.

Spring

There’s something poetic about spring sessions that capture seniors right on the cusp of graduation. The blooming flowers and fresh greenery symbolize new beginnings perfectly. However, this time of year often coincides with the peak of senior activities, sports competitions, and academic commitments, which can make scheduling and potential reschedules more challenging. That said, for athletes with fall or winter seasons or students with particularly demanding extracurricular schedules, spring might be the only practical option.

Consider All Options

Many people rule out winter and summer because of weather concerns, but I encourage you to consider these seasons as they might be less stressful and perfect for your senior’s schedule. Any time can work great depending on your specific situation.

What matters most is capturing this milestone authentically, regardless of the season. Sometimes the less obvious choice ends up being the best fit for your senior’s schedule and personality.

Just like this week’s session that worked out despite weather challenges, flexibility often leads to great results.

Rain in the Forecast? Embracing Flexibility for Stunning Senior Portraits

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Senior guy close up wearing Summit Letterman Jacket at portrait session in downtown Franklin, TN

As a portrait photographer in Tennessee, I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected – especially when it comes to weather!

Adapting to Weather Challenges

The forecast called for rain on our scheduled session day. And like many of my seniors, this young man’s calendar was packed with sports, academics, and other activities that made rescheduling difficult. After discussing options with his mom, we decided to try our best to stick with our Sunday appointment.

Rather than cancel, we adjusted. His mom suggested meeting earlier at 1:30 PM to try to beat the incoming storm – and she absolutely nailed it! We completed a full, wonderful session, and it actually started pouring on my drive home.

The Silver Lining of Overcast Skies

Here’s a little photography secret: while I typically avoid early afternoon sessions because of harsh sunlight, cloudy days completely change the game. Overcast skies create a natural softbox effect that gives us:

  • Even, flattering light without harsh shadows
  • Vibrant colors that pop
  • The freedom to shoot in locations that would normally be challenging in direct sunlight
  • No squinting in bright sunlight!

What to Consider When Rain Threatens Your Session

If you’re scheduled for a portrait session and rain is in the forecast, here’s how we can handle it:

Option 1: Reschedule in advance – If your schedule allows and the forecast is certain, we can reschedule a day or two ahead of time. I’m always flexible with this option.

Option 2: Embrace the moment – If you prefer to wait and see how the weather develops, we can make a game-time decision. Sometimes, like with this session, we find perfect windows of opportunity! And if it starts sprinkling lightly? I’ve been known to pull out a clear umbrella, which not only keeps you dry but also makes for some creative and unique portraits.

Every client has different preferences when it comes to weather decisions, and I’m happy to work with whatever approach makes you most comfortable. What matters most is capturing this special milestone in your life – rain or shine!

Looking to book your own senior portrait session? Contact me to discuss your vision – and don’t worry too much about the weather forecast. As this handsome senior’s session proves, we’ll make it work beautifully!

Senior Photography at The Factory at Franklin: Tips for Parents Attending the Session

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Senior portrait session at the Factory at Franklin by Crystal Freemon Photography - senoir guy with arms crossed in green sweatshirt with string of lights in background.

I’m absolutely loving The Factory at Franklin for senior sessions lately! There’s something about the rustic brick walls, industrial elements, and gorgeous natural light that creates such a perfect backdrop for showcasing senior personalities. (Just a quick note: The Factory does charge a $50 photography fee, but I promise it’s worth every penny for the variety of backdrops we get to use!)

One question I get asked fairly often is whether parents should come along to their senior’s portrait session. I think the answer is really personal and depends on your specific senior. While most of my seniors bring someone—usually mom—to their session, some teens might feel more relaxed without an audience. It’s worth having a conversation about what makes your senior most comfortable.

For this particular senior session, both the senior and his mom were absolute naturals, creating such a relaxed, fun atmosphere that made capturing these images a joy. I just love the way everything turned out! I said this during the session, but I’ll repeat it here for all of you: blue-eyed people should almost always include at least one blue outfit choice at their sessions. That’s just facts! The blue really makes those eyes pop in photos.

We were a bit worried about the weather turning on us—it looked like rain might interrupt our plans—but the sun came out at the perfect moment, blessing us with a gorgeous sky for those outdoor shots.

Parent’s Guide: The Dos and Don’ts of Attending Your Senior’s Portrait Session

If you’re a parent who will be accompanying your senior to their session, here are a few helpful tips to make the experience amazing for everyone:

The Dos:

  • Do help with small, easily fixed details. Feel free to point out minor wardrobe adjustments like an unbuttoned button, a collar that needs straightening, or the outline of a phone in a pocket.
  • Do hold their phone, keys, and extra items. This practical help is genuinely appreciated and prevents awkward pocket bulges in photos.
  • Do maintain a relaxed atmosphere. One of the most valuable things you can do is help keep the mood light—chat about whatever, tell stories, or just be a calm, encouraging presence.
  • Do trust the process. Just like I tell parents of toddlers, I’ll take tons of photos, and plenty of them will capture perfect, genuine expressions.

The Don’ts:

  • Don’t criticize their expressions. The most common concern I hear from parents is about “fake smiles.” I completely understand wanting natural photos of your teen, but pointing out forced expressions never makes it better—it just makes them more self-conscious.
  • Don’t tell them to smile. I know parents really want those smiling photos, but many teens actually prefer more serious expressions. I love both and will work to capture a variety, so we don’t need them smiling in EVERY pose.
  • Don’t hover too closely. Give your senior and me some space to work together and build rapport.
  • Don’t worry if they seem uncomfortable at first. Teens are often most awkward at the beginning of the session, and that’s completely normal! As we chat, move around, and get into the flow, we’ll find many 1/500ths of a second of natural, authentic expressions.

Remember, the goal is to create images that reflect who your senior truly is at this milestone moment. Sometimes that means letting them take the lead on their expressions and poses, even if they’re different from what you might choose.

Looking at these images from our Factory session, I’m reminded of why I love photographing high school seniors so much. There’s something magical about documenting this transition—capturing who they are right now, while hinting at who they’re becoming.

Interested in scheduling your senior’s portrait session at The Factory at Franklin or another location? I’d love to hear from you! Get in touch soon as my calendar is filling quickly.

A Family Session at Preservation Park | Spring Hill, TN Family Photographer

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Family of five at family portrait session at Preservation park in Spring Hill TN

There’s something special about discovering the perfect location for a photo session right in your own backyard. Preservation Park in Spring Hill is exactly that kind of spot – a place I should definitely use more often.

This park offers stunning natural backdrops, but I’ll be honest – there’s a bit of a hike up a hill to reach the best shooting locations. While this can be challenging for families with very young children or those with mobility considerations, it was perfect for this family of five with older children.

Football and Family Time

I loved that this family brought along a football to their session. I’m all for anything that helps create natural interactions during a photoshoot. The football wasn’t a prop in the Pinterest sense – it was something meaningful that showed who they are as a family and created authentic moments.

When people can engage with each other naturally, the camera fades into the background, and that’s when the most genuine expressions and connections happen.

Preservation Park’s Natural Beauty

What makes Preservation Park worth the climb is the variety of backgrounds – from open fields to wooded areas bathed in golden afternoon light. The natural landscape offered the perfect setting to showcase this wonderful family.

I enjoyed getting to know them and seeing the dynamic between the siblings. There’s something particularly rewarding about photographing teens and older children – they bring their own personalities and energy to a session in ways that make each photo unique.

Considering Preservation Park for Your Photos?

If you’re thinking about this location for your family session, here’s what to know:

  • There’s about a 5-10 minute walk uphill to reach the prime photo spots
  • Wear comfortable shoes you can walk in
  • It’s best suited for families with older kids or those comfortable with a short hike
  • The payoff in gorgeous backdrops is absolutely worth it

I’d love to help you create beautiful family memories at this hidden gem in Spring Hill or find another perfect location that suits your family’s needs.

Family of five at family portrait session at Preservation park in Spring Hill TN

Ready to Book Your Family Session?

Whether you’re drawn to Preservation Park or have another location in mind, I’d love to create a custom photography experience for your family. Sessions are filling up quickly, so reach out soon to secure your spot!

Contact me to book your session →

Crystal Freemon is a family photographer serving Spring Hill, Franklin, and the greater Nashville, Tennessee area, specializing in authentic, connection-focused family photography.

Senior Session at Fall Creek Falls

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Fall Creek Falls Senior Guy Portrait Session with Crystal Freemon Photography

This session was a special one—this senior is the son of one of my best friends from college, and we met up at Fall Creek Falls for his photos, just like we did for his older sister’s session. I love this location and wish it were closer because it has so much variety to work with.

We spent more time on this session than I usually do, just roaming around and hanging out, which made for a really fun, relaxed shoot. We started earlier in the day than I normally would, so I got to play around with harsher light more than usual. While I still love the soft glow of golden hour, it was fun experimenting outside my comfort zone. The biggest challenge was avoiding squinting in the bright sun, but honestly, the sunglasses he brought made it work—and they looked really cool, too.

There were moments in this session where he had such a ‘70s vibe, which I loved. Whether it was the lighting, the setting, or just his overall look, it really worked, and I’m so happy with how these turned out.

Fall Creek Falls is always a dream location, and it was great getting to explore it again for this session. If only it were a little closer!

Fall Creek Falls Senior Guy Portrait Session with Crystal Freemon Photography

Why Downtown Columbia Never Gets Old for Senior Sessions

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Senior girl in beautiful flowing pink dress in front of an old white building in Downtown Columbia TN

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve photographed senior sessions in Downtown Columbia, but no matter how many times I return, it never feels the same twice. There’s something special about this little downtown—its mix of historic charm, worn brick, and urban textures creates the perfect canvas for any senior’s personality.

This session was a perfect example of that. As I was shooting, I realized I had placed this senior in some of the same spots I’ve used before—leaning against the same old brick, walking past the same weathered doors, standing in the same golden light. But the vibe? Completely different.

That’s what I love about senior photography. The location stays the same, but the energy, the personality, and the story are unique every time. This senior brought her own style, her own confidence, and her own presence, making familiar backdrops feel brand new. One moment, she looked effortlessly elegant in a soft pink dress, the next, she exuded bold confidence in a sleek black outfit. The contrast of styles against Downtown Columbia’s timeless textures made for such a stunning variety of images.

One of my favorite surprises from this session happened near the green table. I’ve shot in that exact spot so many times before, but it had never really stood out to me. Then I noticed her fabulous pink shoes and suddenly knew—the colors would be fantastic together. That pop of pink against the bright green brought a whole new life to the space, turning it into one of my favorite shots of the day.

This session also had a special layer of nostalgia for me. I’ve known this senior’s mom since my moms’ club days, and she has always been such a kind supporter of my work. As I was preparing this blog post, I realized that I featured a photo of this senior—when she was just a little girl hugging her brother—in my 10-year anniversary video. Where does the time go? It’s such a surreal feeling to look back at that sweet moment from years ago and now see her all grown up, stepping into this exciting new stage of life.

It’s proof that a great location isn’t just about the buildings or the scenery—it’s about how a senior makes it their own.

Are you a senior looking for the perfect spot to showcase your personality? Downtown Columbia is always one of my top recommendations. Whether you want something soft and dreamy, bold and confident, or a mix of both, it’s the kind of place that adapts to YOU.

And for a fun throw-back, here is the photo I mentioned from my Anniversary Slideshow, taken in 2016.

A Winter Senior Session in Downtown Franklin

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Downtown Franklin TN Senior Portrait Session

Even though it was a chilly day in downtown Franklin, this senior brought all the warmth and style to her session! She was such a champ, never letting the cold dampen her spirit. I couldn’t get enough of the gorgeous coat and shoes she borrowed from her mom—they added such a cool vibe to the whole look. Sometimes the best pieces come straight from your mom’s closet, right?

One of my favorite parts of this session was how personal it felt. She brought along her clarinet and the coolest clarinet case decked out with stickers, making her photos truly her own. We even popped into Shuff’s Music, where she had taken lessons, for a few special shots. It was such a fun full-circle moment, and I love when seniors incorporate meaningful details like this into their sessions.

✨ Senior Mini Sessions Are Here! ✨


If you’re a senior (or the parent of one) and haven’t had a chance to book a full session, these upcoming senior mini sessions are the perfect opportunity! They’re also great if you just want a few updated photos—you don’t have to wait until you’ve made your college decision to capture this milestone.

Spots are limited, so if you’ve been on the fence, now’s the time to grab your session! Reach out today, and let’s create something beautiful. 💕

A Special Senior Session in Chattanooga

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Senior Girl Portrait Session in Downtown Chattanooga

There are certain sessions that feel extra special, and this was definitely one of them. This beautiful senior isn’t just any client—she’s the daughter of one of my oldest and dearest friends from college. She’s like a niece to me, and I can’t believe she’s already getting ready to head off to college herself! It feels like just yesterday we were all young and figuring out life, and now she’s about to embark on her own incredible journey.

When it came time to plan her senior session, we wanted to capture her in a place that holds meaning for her. Since she lives in Chattanooga, I made the trip down to photograph her in some of her favorite spots. We originally scheduled the session last month, but as luck would have it, it ended up raining on us and we had to try again for another date. This past weekend, we finally made it happen! Though it was absolutely freezing and the wind had a mind of its own, we at least dodged the rain. And honestly? I wouldn’t have changed a thing—the overcast skies gave us the most gorgeous, soft lighting that made every shot feel magical.

We explored some truly stunning locations, from scenic riverside spots to the iconic pedestrian bridge. If you look closely, you can even see the Tennessee Aquarium in the background of some of the images! One of my absolute favorite stops was a vibrant alley covered in chalk art, which added such a fun and dynamic feel to the session. It was the perfect mix of edgy and whimsical.

I am so honored to have captured this milestone for someone so special to me. I have no doubt that she’s going to do amazing things in college and beyond.

Enjoy this little sneak peek from her session! I can’t wait to see all the adventures that await her. 💕

A Stunning Senior Session at The Factory at Franklin

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Senior guy portrait session at the Factory at Franklin

There are sessions that just stick with you, and this senior session at The Factory at Franklin is definitely one of them. Everything about it—the colors, the textures, and the setting—made it one of my all-time favorites.

The Factory is such a dream location for photography. The combination of industrial textures, moody lighting, and stunning architectural details creates a perfect backdrop for unique, creative portraits. Yes, they do charge a $50 photo permit fee, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. The versatility of this space gives sessions an elevated, artistic feel that you just can’t get anywhere else.

We lucked out with the weather for this shoot. It’s been raining constantly, but on this particular day, we had a cold but clear afternoon—perfect for capturing some incredible images. My senior handled the chilly weather like a pro and brought a great energy to the session.

The industrial setting complemented his look perfectly, giving the photos a mix of grit and warmth. His personal style added a unique touch to the images, and he was a natural in front of the camera.

I always want my seniors to feel like themselves in their photos, and this session did exactly that. His personality and style came through beautifully, and I’m really happy with how these images turned out.

If you’re looking for a senior session location that offers something a little different—something with a mix of grit and beauty, history and modern edge—I highly recommend The Factory. And if you’re up for braving the cold, it can make for some seriously epic portraits!

Book Your Senior Mini Session!

Looking for a quick, stylish, and stress-free way to capture your senior year? My Senior Mini Sessions are the perfect option! These sessions are designed to be fun, relaxed, and efficient, giving you beautiful, high-quality images without the time commitment of a full session. Highlight your college decision by wearing a college t-shirt, or bring your cap & gown if you like.

Spots are limited, so book your Senior Mini Session today!

Why Winter Family Photos Are Truly Magical: A Session at Harlinsdale Farm

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Winter might not be the most obvious choice for family photos, but there’s something magical about this season that makes it truly special. When I photographed this family at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, we were met with overcast skies, a little construction, and plenty of winter quiet—but it all came together beautifully.

One of the things I love about winter sessions is how serene and understated the scenery can be. The bare trees, soft browns of the landscape, and rustic fences all create a simple backdrop that keeps the focus on the people in the frame. Even though parts of Harlinsdale Farm were messy due to construction, we found so many great pockets of texture and light to work with. A fence here, an open road there—it doesn’t take much to create a lovely backdrop that makes the people the focus.

A lot of people think sunny days are best for photos, but I’ll let you in on a secret: overcast skies are incredible. The clouds create a soft, even light that eliminates harsh shadows and adds a richness to the colors. It’s the kind of light that flatters everyone and makes the photos feel cozy and timeless. On this day, the diffused light worked its magic, bringing out the deep greens, warm earth tones, and rich textures of the family’s outfits.

Speaking of outfits, this family absolutely nailed their clothing choices. The deep greens, burgundy, and navy tones popped perfectly against the muted winter backdrop, and the mix of textures added so much depth to the photos. I loved how everything coordinated without being overly matched, giving the whole session a polished yet natural feel.

Winter sessions like this one are a reminder that you don’t need blooming flowers or bright sunshine for beautiful photos. All you really need is a great location, the people you love, and a willingness to embrace the season for what it is.

Senior Session at the Factory at Franklin

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When it comes to capturing senior portraits, finding the right location is key. I was thrilled to return to The Factory at Franklin for this session after not having shot there in a while. I’m happy to report that the new owners still allow photography with a paid permit, which is great news because The Factory remains one of my favorite spots for its endless variety of stunning backdrops and unique charm.

We began the session at Studio TN, to celebrate this senior’s love of the theater. The theater provided a meaningful and personal setting that beautifully reflected his passion for performing. The dramatic lighting and intimate atmosphere made it a fantastic place to start, and it set the tone for a creative and fun shoot.

Next, we headed to the colorful and eclectic shops within The Factory. A big thank-you to Luna Record Shop and CR-71 for letting us take photos in their stores. These spaces were a perfect fit for this senior’s personality. Whether posing among the vinyl records or exploring the treasures at CR-71, these indoor locations added such a unique and personalized touch to the session.

We wrapped up the session with The Factory’s gorgeous outdoor spaces, which I have always loved. The industrial brick walls, large glass panels, and beautiful architectural details provided a classic and timeless backdrop. I think the overcast day added a depth and contrast to the photos that is just beautiful.

What makes The Factory at Franklin so special is its versatility. From its creative indoor locations to the stunning outdoor settings, it’s a photographer’s dream. Every corner offers something unique, and it’s the kind of location that helps bring a senior’s personality to life in every shot.

This session was a wonderful mix of creativity, fun, and meaningful moments. Huge thanks again to Studio TN, Luna Record Shop, and CR-71 for being part of this incredible experience!

Tips for Coordinating Outfits for Extended Family Photo Sessions

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It was such a joy to reconnect with this family! I first met them last year for their oldest daughter’s senior portraits. This year, they decided to include the grandparents in a session while she was home from college for the holidays. We gathered at the lovely Smith Park in Brentwood, and we were lucky to enjoy beautiful weather and lingering fall leaves.

One of the most common questions I get, especially for extended family sessions, is, “What should we wear?” Coordinating outfits across multiple family members can be a challenge, but this family nailed it. They kept their wardrobe simple and cohesive by choosing neutral tones:

  • Neutral Palette: The mom wore black, and the children were dressed in varying shades of brown and cream. This creates a timeless, polished look.
  • Subtle Pop of Color: Grandma added a pop of personality with her burgundy jacket. It complemented the neutral tones beautifully while giving the photos a touch of visual interest.

Here Are My Tips for Your Extended Family Session:

  1. Stick to a Color Scheme: Neutral tones, earth tones, or deep jewel tones work beautifully in outdoor settings. Avoid bright patterns or clashing colors.
  2. Add Texture Over Pattern: Sweaters, scarves, and layered fabrics add depth and interest without overwhelming the photo.
  3. Incorporate a Pop of Color: A single accessory or outfit piece (like Grandma’s burgundy jacket) can make your photos visually dynamic without distracting from the group.
  4. Coordinate, Don’t Match: Outfits that complement each other—rather than perfectly matching—help keep the group looking cohesive but natural.
  5. Consider Comfort: Make sure everyone, especially grandparents and young kids, feels comfortable in what they’re wearing. Comfortable people take the best photos!

A Senior Session at Yanahli Park: Finding the Perfect Outdoor Location

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I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting this family in person before, but we’ve crossed paths through mutual friends and shared Facebook groups. It was such a joy to finally connect and spend a gorgeous fall day together at Yanahli Park in Columbia. Their senior session turned out beautifully, and it got me thinking about one of the most common questions I get from clients: Where should we do the photos?

Choosing the Right Location for Your Session:


When planning a portrait session, selecting the right location is key. I offer a variety of parks and outdoor areas to choose from, and I always encourage clients to browse my portfolio on my website to see examples of past sessions. If they’re not sure what they’re looking for, I’ll ask a few guiding questions:

  • Do you prefer an urban backdrop with buildings, like Downtown Franklin or Columbia, or would you rather be surrounded by nature?
  • How do you feel about crowds? Some locations, like Downtown Franklin, can be lively, while quieter spots might feel more comfortable.

For this session, nature was the clear winner. That’s why I suggested Yanahli Park. It has so many elements I love in a location: beautiful fields, textured trails, and even access to the river, which many clients enjoy as a serene feature in their portraits.

Why Yanahli Park Was a Perfect Fit:


What I look for most in a location is great lighting and texture. Yanahli Park offers warm, backlit areas with tall grasses and fields that create the perfect dreamy look at golden hour. Honestly, one of my favorite spots for portraits is simply a patch of tall weeds with the sun streaming through. Yanahli has plenty of those (as long as the fields haven’t been freshly mowed!).

For this senior, the natural setting was a perfect match.


Sessions like this remind me why I love what I do—capturing authentic moments in beautiful, meaningful places. If you’re considering a senior session or family portraits, let’s talk about what kind of location speaks to you. Whether it’s urban charm or rustic nature, we’ll find the perfect spot to tell your story.

A Perfect Senior Session in Downtown Columbia

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I am absolutely in love with this senior session! I loved her style and her clothing choices were just fantastic for the location. Her pup was such a trooper and so well-behaved—it’s always a treat to include pets in senior photos, and he was an especially cooperative dog for the entire photo session.

Downtown Columbia is one of my favorite spots to shoot, and this session reminded me why. I just love all the different buildings and textures. I know many of my seniors love Downtown Franklin, and it’s always a great choice, but I personally prefer the slightly edgier look of Columbia.

She wanted photos with her car and had liked the ones I recently took at Columbia Motor Alley. These were probably my favorites of the session, particularly the ones of her just standing in front of the wall of the Motor Alley with the orange light in the background.

Her mom booked a last-minute spot in what I think is the best month of the year for photos. Since she was able to take a weekday slot, we had a prime session during the gorgeous fall light. Weekday sessions after the time change are often a hidden gem for seniors—especially those who get out early for online classes or study hall. The earlier sunset can be tricky for some, but for those who can make it work, weekday sessions offer beautiful golden-hour light and a little more availability during the busy fall season.

If you’re looking to book a photo session before the end of the year, there are still a few spots left. I’m also offering $50 off sessions in January and February if that works better for you. Just use coupon code “WINTER2025” when booking on my website, or just shoot me an email at crystalfreemonphotography@gmail.com.

If you want to see more sessions and keep up with my latest work, follow me on Facebook and Instagram.

A Unique Senior Session at Hidden Seed Plant Co. and Fischer Park

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This senior session was such a treat! When this senior mentioned her love for Hidden Seed Plant Co. and asked if we could do part of her session there, I thought it was a great idea. Hidden Seed is this cozy little shop tucked away near Duplex and Main Street, right behind Groove Life. The owner was kind enough to let us take some photos in the shop, which made for a beautiful and unique backdrop.

I actually have a plant from Hidden Seed myself—a gift from friends for my birthday in August. I’m notorious for having a brown thumb, but three months later, it’s still alive and thriving, so I’m convinced this shop is a little bit magical. If you haven’t been there, you really should check it out!

For the second half of the session, we headed over to Fischer Park. It’s a place I know well, since it’s close to home, and we often walk our dog Mars there. While Fischer Park is mostly known for the playground, splash pad, and paved walking track, there’s a lovely little weeded area along the trail and even a hidden path down to the creek. I’d been wanting to try it as a photo spot for a while.

The path down to the creek is pretty steep—I usually slide down it on my bum—so I’d been hesitant to take families there. But I knew this senior was up for an adventure. She came prepared with sneakers to help her navigate the slope, and once we got down there, the setting was perfect. I’m so glad she was game because the photos turned out beautifully.

If you’re local to Spring Hill, I can’t recommend checking out these two spots enough. Hidden Seed is a fantastic little business to support, and Fischer Park is perfect for a walk or some fresh air. It was a pleasure to incorporate both places into this session, and I’m thrilled with how everything turned out!

Winter sessions can be a beautiful and unique way to capture your senior year! I’m offering a special discount for January and February bookings (use coupon code ‘WINTER” when booking), so if you’re ready to create something unforgettable, let’s chat!

Senior Session at Yanahli Park

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Photographing seniors is always a special experience, but when it’s someone I’ve watched grow up, it takes on a whole new level of meaning. I still can’t believe it’s time for this one to have her senior session. Since her mother and I served on the PTO together almost ten years ago, I couldn’t tell you how many pictures I’ve taken of her.

We chose Yanahli Park for this special session, and let me tell you, it couldn’t have been a more perfect day. I know that in Miss Congeniality, it’s said that April 25 is the most perfect date, but I disagree. November 3 is where it’s at. The colors on the trees were in full glory, the air was crisp but comfortable, and the light was simply magical. It’s one of those days that feels like nature itself is celebrating with you.

I had so much fun photographing this session, and she really nailed it. She was so easy to work with, and her outfit choices were fantastic.

I don’t really get emotional during sessions. I’m in work mode, making sure I capture every important shot. But editing is a different story. That’s when the emotions hit me. As I worked through her gallery, I felt fine until I got to the photos of her with the book. Something about those images brought all the feelings rushing in. Probably because I’m also a book nerd.

This session was a beautiful reminder of why I love what I do. Watching her grow up through my lens has been an honor.



Thank you so much for letting me capture this special moment! If you’re interested in booking a session or have any questions, feel free to reach out. I’d love to hear from you! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @crystalfreemonphotography and on Facebook to see more of my wrk and stay updated on upcoming sessions and promotions.

Senior Session at South 40 Farm

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I’m thrilled with how this senior session turned out at South 40 Farm. The whole vibe of this shoot came together perfectly, from the location to the outfits. We started with a gorgeous teal blue dress, which looked incredible against the fall colors around the farm. Later, the senior switched into jeans and a lacy top—simple, but so fitting for the natural, cozy feel of the location.

One thing I really appreciate about this session is how much thought the client put into choosing a photographer with the right style. Too often, people pick a photographer because they were nearby, had an opening, or came recommended, without really looking at their work. But this senior’s mom did the research, and it made all the difference. She found a style that matched her daughter’s vision and was willing to make the drive from Hendersonville to work with me.

When picking a photographer, my best advice is to start by finding a portfolio you genuinely love. Customer service and reliability matter, but none of it is worth it if the style doesn’t align with what you’re looking for. I’m grateful to have worked with clients who understand that, and it makes sessions like this even more rewarding.

If you’re looking for a senior session that reflects your personality and style, I’d love to work with you! Visit my website to learn more about session options and availability. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram to see more of my recent work and stay up-to-date on seasonal mini-sessions, tips, and inspiration.

Senior Portrait Session at Eastern Flank Battlefield

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I still have a few weekday sessions available in November. If you’re looking to fit in a last-minute senior session, these weekday spots can be a great option—especially for seniors who get out of school early due to online classes or flexible schedules. These spots tend to not fill up completely because they have to be so early in the day because of the early sunset. But the lighting is beautiful this time of year, and if you can make it to the session early, you’ll be rewarded with some gorgeous shots.

If November doesn’t work for you, January and February are also great times for senior photos without the hustle and bustle of the fall season. I’m currently offering a discount with the coupon code “WINTER” for $50 off when you book ahead for these months, and I’m always flexible about rescheduling if it’s too cold outside.

I had so much fun photographing this young woman recently at one of my favorite spots. We started by the creek and ended at the Eastern Flank Battlefield, where we were blessed with the prettiest pink sky as the sun was setting.

If you’re thinking about booking, don’t wait! Spots fill up fast, and now’s a perfect time to lock in a date.

Senior Guy Session in Downtown Franklin

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This week, I had the pleasure of photographing a senior session in downtown Franklin, and it was a fantastic time! This senior was really easy and fun to photograph, and we even got to incorporate some skateboarding shots.

His mom was fortunate to grab this session date last minute after another client rescheduled, and I’m so glad it worked out. So many people want fall photos and it’s just hard to accommodate everyone.

If you’ve been trying to get a last-minute fall session, I’ve got great news for you. I just added several new dates to my calendar! For weekends, I have openings on November 23 and December 7 & 8. Plus, there are some weekday slots available in November as well. I know weekday sessions can be tough because of the early sunset, but if you can take some time off work or if your senior gets out of school early, these spots are perfect for capturing fall’s golden hour.

I’m also offering a discount on January and February sessions. Use the code “WINTER” when booking to receive $50 off. Winter sessions bring their own unique magic, and I’d love to help you capture those moments. Reach out soon if you’re interested—these dates are sure to fill up fast!

Looking forward to hearing from you! 🙂



If you’re looking to schedule your own senior session or know someone who is, check out my updated calendar for availability! Fall dates are filling up fast, and I’m offering a special discount for January and February sessions with the coupon code “WINTER.” Share this post with your friends who might be interested in booking a session as well! Book a Session.