Category: Session Locations

How I Scout Every Session: A Henry Horton Senior Portrait Behind the Scenes

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Behind the Scenes as I scope out a Session location at Henry Horton State Park

One of my favorite parts of every session happens before my client even arrives. I show up early—often even an hour before our scheduled time—and I walk. I’m looking at light, noticing textures, mentally marking spots that might work beautifully in by the time the session starts, when the sun shifts just a little lower.

For this senior session at Henry Horton Park, I pulled out my phone and captured a few quick snapshots of what I was seeing. That’s the thing about being a photographer—you start to notice potential everywhere. Those tall weeds that most people would overlook? I saw how the evening light would filter through them, creating that dreamy backlit glow. The chain-link fence by the tennis court isn’t exactly a classic backdrop, but I knew the angle of the light would hit it perfectly, adding interesting lines and texture that you can’t get in an open field.

And that old building with the weathered walls? Not traditionally pretty, but those colors and textures were exactly what I needed to add variety to the gallery. Same with the gravel path—perfect for those natural walking shots that show movement and personality rather than just another posed portrait.

The best part? This senior made my job easy. She was natural, relaxed, and gave me so much variety in her expressions. When you’re working with someone who trusts the process and brings genuine energy to the session, those little spots I’d scouted earlier transform into something special. The weeds became a golden backdrop for her laughter. The fence created dramatic shadows. The building’s texture made her vibrant outfits pop even more.

This is exactly why I love what I do. It’s not just about finding pretty locations—it’s about seeing light and possibility in unexpected places, and then watching it all come together when the right person steps in front of the camera.

If you’re ready to book your own senior session and see how we can create something unique together, reach out! I’d love to show you how the ordinary becomes extraordinary when we look at it through the right light.

Stunning Senior Portraits at South 40 in Franklin, TN

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Senior pics with Crystal Freemon Photography at South 40 Farm

I am absolutely in love with everything about this senior session at South 40. When this senior reached out wanting something with flowers and fields, she was originally interested in Harlinsdale. But with Pilgrimage festival prep shutting down the park, I suggested a few other options including South 40 – and I’m so glad she chose it because it turned out to be absolutely perfect.

The timing couldn’t have been better. The flowers were in full bloom, and were a perfect fit for what she was looking for. But honestly? I think I loved the tall weeds and grasses even more. There’s something about that natural, untamed look that just speaks to me, especially when the light hits them just right.

I’ll admit I got a little nervous when I spotted some sprinkles on my drive to the farm, and we could see storm clouds building in the distance. But sometimes the best sessions happen when you embrace a little uncertainty. As we were wrapping up, that approaching storm delivered the most incredible dramatic clouds and wind that made her hair dance perfectly against the moody sky.

Her outfit choices were spot-on. That blue dress looked absolutely stunning against the dramatic sky we lucked into, and I loved how the color popped against all the natural tones around us. Her second look with the vintage camper and old car was so perfect– sometimes those rustic elements just complete the whole vibe of a session.

What made this session even more special was getting to work with a family I’d photographed before. I had captured their family photos a few years ago during her older brother’s senior session, and there’s nothing quite like working with clients you genuinely enjoyed the first time around. We even snuck in a few family shots during this session, minus big brother who’s away at college.

If you’re considering South 40 for your senior session, just know there is a location fee of $75 per hour. I typically recommend booking two hours so I have time to scout the light before we start shooting, plus it’s a big farm and we need time to move between all the gorgeous spots. The flowers won’t always be in bloom like they were for us, but honestly, I love this location even when everything isn’t in bloom.

Ready to capture your senior year in a setting that feels authentically you? Let’s chat about creating something beautiful together – whether that’s at South 40 or finding the perfect location that speaks to your style. I’d love to help you tell your story. Book Now.

Seeing Through a Photographer’s Eye: A Downtown Franklin Senior Session

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Senior Session in Downtown Franklin TN and Pinkerton Park

There’s a saying in photography that you should always “get it right in camera.” While I mostly agree with this philosophy, I’ve learned that sometimes the most beautiful shots come from seeing potential where others might not – and knowing what magic you can create later.

This senior guy’s session was the perfect example of how a photographer’s eye works differently. We started in downtown Franklin, and I’m sure my perspective looked a little unusual to anyone watching. While most people see the bustling street with too many cars, crowds of tourists, and trash cans scattered everywhere, I’m scanning for that perfect light hitting a brick wall or the way shadows fall across the architecture.

Yes, I could wait for the exact moment when no cars are driving by and no people are walking through my shot. But that’s just not practical when you’re trying to capture genuine expressions and keep the energy flowing. Instead, I strategically position myself so that any distracting elements fall in areas I know I can easily clean up later. I might be aiming for the dreamy way afternoon light pours over a building, fully aware that I’ll need to remove that delivery truck in the background during editing.

We had planned to end the session at the bridge at Pinkerton Park. His mom suggested we park on the opposite side of the bridge from Pinkerton Park. I’m so grateful she made that suggestion because it led me to discover this little patch of weeds that became absolutely perfect for our final shots. Now, I’ll be honest – to anyone else, this spot probably looked like nothing special. It was in a dingy gravel lot right next to some dumpsters. Not exactly scenic.

But that’s where the photographer’s eye comes in. I could see that the patch of weeds was just large enough to create a beautiful natural backdrop, and the light was filtering through in the most gorgeous way. Sometimes the most unexpected locations give you the most stunning results.

This is what I love about photography – constantly looking beyond the obvious to find those hidden gems. Every session teaches me to stay flexible with my plans while keeping my eyes open for something even better than what I originally envisioned.

Ready to create some senior portraits that capture your unique personality? I’d love to work with you to find those perfect moments and unexpected beautiful spots that tell your story. Contact me to book your session – I promise we’ll find the magic, even in the most unlikely places!

Spring Hill Family Photos at Sarah Benson Park | Fall Sessions Available

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Family photo session at Sarah Benson Park in Spring Hill TN

I absolutely love photographing families with older kids and young adults. There’s something so special about capturing these connections during this unique season of life—when everyone’s personalities have really developed and the family dynamic has this wonderful depth to it.

Let me tell you, I know from personal experience just how challenging it can be to coordinate schedules when you have teens and college students. Between work schedules, school commitments, sports, and social plans, finding a time when everyone can be in the same place feels nearly impossible sometimes. But when it all comes together? It’s everything you hoped it would be.

This Sarah Benson Park session was exactly that—everything I love about photographing families at this stage. The golden hour light filtering through the trees, genuine laughter instead of forced smiles, and those natural interactions that happen when everyone’s relaxed and just being themselves. These are the moments that make all the scheduling coordination absolutely worth it.

Speaking of timing and coordination, I’ve just added another Fall mini session date—Thursday, October 9th! If your young adults will be home for fall break, this could be the perfect opportunity to finally get those family photos you’ve been talking about. Mini sessions are especially wonderful for families who don’t have little ones to wrangle. We can focus on connection and conversation without worrying about naptime or meltdowns.

I still have several dates available for full fall sessions too, but honestly, these won’t last long. Fall is always my busiest season, and I’m already seeing my calendar fill up faster than usual this year. If you’ve been thinking about family photos, don’t wait too much longer.

Family photo session at Sarah Benson Park in Spring Hill TN

Ready to coordinate those schedules and create some beautiful memories together? I’d love to chat about which session option would work best for your family. You can book directly through my website or send me a message—I’m here to help make this as easy as possible!

Late Summer Family Session at Harlinsdale Farm

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Late Summer Family Photo session with Crystal Freemon Photography at Harlinsdale Farms

Looking at this beautiful family session at Harlinsdale Farm, I’m reminded why I absolutely love working with repeat clients. There’s something so special about watching children grow and change from year to year – seeing their personalities develop and capturing new dynamics as families evolve together.

This particular family has been coming to me every September, and I’ve had the joy of photographing their kids since they were tiny. It’s fascinating to see how each child’s personality shines through differently as they get older.

Harlinsdale Farm continues to be one of my absolute favorite locations to shoot. The variety is incredible – from the historic buildings to the open fields, white fencing, and gorgeous old barns. Every corner offers something different, and the light there is just magical, especially during golden hour.

I have to admit, I was getting a bit frustrated over the past year with all the construction happening at Harlinsdale. Some of my go-to spots around the historic buildings were blocked off, and I felt limited in where I could take families. But I’m thrilled to say that the construction seems to be finished now, and I have full access to all those beautiful architectural elements again.

This session reminded me why I fell in love with this location in the first place. We started in the softer light near the buildings, then moved out to the fields and the pond as the sun got lower.

The results speak for themselves. These images capture everything I love about family photography – genuine connection, beautiful natural light, and that perfect balance between environmental storytelling and intimate moments.

Ready to create your own timeless family memories? I’d love to chat about capturing your family’s unique story at one of my favorite Middle Tennessee locations. Contact me today to start planning your session.

Senior Session at Centennial High School Baseball Field

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Senior Baseball themed portraits at Centennial High School

I love when seniors want to include something that actually matters to them in their portraits. When I heard that baseball was important for this session, I immediately started thinking about how we could make that work. We began at Pinkerton Park by the river, but I knew the baseball field at Centennial High School would be where we’d get the shots that really mattered.

I’d never photographed at this field before, so I spent some time on Google Earth beforehand to see how the sun would set. I was right about the light being perfect behind the field, which made all that planning worth it.

What excited me about this location was getting to work with harsh light instead of my usual soft, shaded approach. The dugout shots ended up being some of my favorites because of how the late afternoon sun created those dramatic shadow patterns. There’s something about that contrast between bright sunlight and deep shadows that just works with sports photography.

Once the sun started setting, we got some beautiful silhouettes, and I used my flash to add some dramatic lighting. I love how they turned out.

Baseball has clearly been a big part of his story, and being able to capture that in a setting that holds meaning makes these portraits more than just senior pictures. They’re a genuine reflection of this moment in his life.

Ready to create senior portraits that tell your story? Let’s talk about incorporating what matters most to you into your session.

Capturing Family Magic at Sarah Benson Park

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Family Portrait Session with Crystal Freemon Photography at Sarah Benson Park in Spring Hill TN, baby with adult siblings

I absolutely loved how this session turned out. Sometimes you walk away from a shoot knowing you captured something really special, and this was definitely one of those times. I had such a hard time choosing which images to share because honestly, I was in love with so many of them.

I’ve been photographing at Sarah Benson Park for years during fall sessions because those autumn trees are simply stunning. But after this evening, I’m questioning why I don’t shoot more there year-round. The summer light filtering through the green canopy created the most gorgeous, soft glow along the walking path. It gave me so much variety in such a small area – sometimes the simplest locations surprise you the most.

This beautiful family had such wonderful energy together. Watching everyone interact, you could just feel how much joy and connection filled every moment.

About halfway through our session, the sweet 9-month-old decided it was time for bed. At first, I was kicking myself for not suggesting an earlier time to work around her schedule. But honestly? Some of my absolute favorite images from the evening are of her peacefully sleeping in her parents’ arms. These unplanned moments often end up being the most meaningful ones.

Everyone in this family was such a natural in front of the camera. The genuine laughter and easy connection between them all made my job feel effortless. Whether it was the sweet couple moments, the sibling interactions, or watching the parents navigate life with their sleeping baby, every grouping felt authentic and full of love.

This is exactly why I fell in love with family photography in the first place. When you can see the real emotion, the genuine connections, and the way families naturally interact with each other – that’s when the magic happens. These aren’t just photos; they’re memories of how much love exists in this beautiful family.

I had such a hard time narrowing down which images to share because honestly, I loved how the entire session turned out. But that’s a good problem to have, right?

Ready to capture your family’s beautiful connections? I’d love to document the love and joy that makes your family special. Whether it’s welcoming a new baby, celebrating new relationships, or simply wanting to freeze this moment in time, let’s create something magical together.

A Sweet Summer Evening with Mom and Baby

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Mother and Baby photo session on a beautiful path in the summer in Spring Hill TN by Crystal Freemon Photography

When this sweet mama reached out about a session with just her and her baby girl, my heart was so happy. Like most moms, she was always the one behind the camera, capturing countless photos of baby and daddy together, but she had almost none of herself with her little one.

I am so glad she made this decision. These images of just the two of them are pure magic, and I know her baby girl will absolutely cherish having these photos of her mama someday.

It has been crazy hot these past couple of weeks, and I’ve had several summer sessions during this heat wave. But for some reason, this particular evening felt like the absolute hottest. We had originally pondered a different location that would have required more walking around, which would have been a complete mistake in that kind of heat.

This location ended up being absolutely perfect. It provided plenty of beautiful shade, which meant we could start the session earlier than I normally would have for the best light. This was so much better for not interfering with baby girl’s bedtime routine. Plus, it offered several different looks all in one compact area with minimal walking required.

That pretty path with the charming lamp posts is honestly one of my favorite photo spots. It’s a place that holds a lot of good memories for me personally, and it’s just so genuinely beautiful. There’s something about that setting that makes every session there feel special.

This sweet baby girl was absolutely perfect during our time together, and getting to spend those quiet moments capturing the connection between her and her mama was such a gift. These are the kinds of sessions that remind me why I love what I do so much.

There’s still time to get a summer session in before the busy fall season kicks into full gear. And it looks like this heat wave is finally coming to an end, so maybe we’ll be getting some milder weather for the rest of the summer sessions!

Mother and Baby photo session on a beautiful path in the summer in Spring Hill TN by Crystal Freemon Photography

A Downtown Columbia Senior Session | Finding Beauty in Unexpected Places

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Downtown Columbia Senior Portrait Session with an edgier vibe.

I’ll be honest—when I heard about the construction happening in downtown Columbia, I was a little bummed. Some of my favorite go-to spots were temporarily off-limits while the city works on enhancing 16 historic downtown buildings with their improvement grant. I might be the only person who actually loves those abandoned buildings exactly as they are, but I’m hoping they’ll preserve that unique character that makes Columbia so special for portraits.

As it turns out, being forced to explore beyond my usual spots led to something pretty amazing. While wandering around looking for alternatives, I discovered what might actually be my new favorite location—this incredible old brick wall with ivy cascading down it, and the best part? The sun was positioned perfectly behind it, creating the most gorgeous backlight.

This senior session was the perfect opportunity to test out this new find, and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. Columbia has always been one of my favorite portrait locations because it offers something different from downtown Franklin. There’s this edgier, more urban vibe with so many fun textures that come with old buildings.

It was a perfect pick for this senior session, and I absolutely love how it turned out. It was SOOOOO hot outside, but she braved it like a champ, and it’s turned out to be one of my favorite sessions. I hope she loves them as much as I do.

This session was a great reminder that while it’s wonderful to have those tried-and-true favorite spots, there’s so much value in continuing to look around and discover new locations. Even when construI’ll be honest—when I heard about the construction happening in downtown Columbia, I was a little bummed. Some of my favorite go-to spots were temporarily off-limits while the city works on enhancing 16 historic downtown buildings with their improvement grant. I might be the only person who actually loves those abandoned buildings exactly as they are, but I’m hoping they’ll preserve that unique character that makes Columbia so special for portraits.

As it turns out, being forced to explore beyond my usual spots led to something pretty amazing. While wandering around looking for alternatives, I discovered what might actually be my new favorite location—this incredible old brick wall with ivy cascading down it, and the best part? The sun was positioned perfectly behind it, creating the most gorgeous backlight.

Columbia has always been one of my favorite portrait locations because it offers something different from downtown Franklin. There’s this edgier, more urban vibe with so many fun textures that come with old buildings.

It was a perfect pick for this senior session, and I absolutely love how it turned out. It was SOOOOO hot outside, but she braved it like a champ, and it’s turned out to be one of my favorite sessions. I hope she loves them as much as I do.

This session was a great reminder that while it’s wonderful to have those tried-and-true favorite spots, there’s so much value in continuing to look around and discover new locations. Even when construction temporarily changes your plans, it might just lead you to something even better than what you had before.

Downtown Columbia Senior Portrait Session with an edgier vibe.

Ready to capture your senior year with portraits that reflect your unique personality? I’d love to help you create images you’ll treasure forever. Let’s find the perfect location that speaks to who you are and tells your story.

Nashville Golden Hour | Class of 2026 Senior Session at the Parthenon

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Nashville Senior Pictures of girl sitting on steps of the Parthenon

I don’t often make the drive to Nashville for sessions since I live on the south side of Spring Hill and charge extra for the distance. But when this senior asked about shooting at the Parthenon, I was super excited because I knew it would be a fabulous spot for senior pictures.

This is my first senior from the Class of 2026, which I’m not completely prepared for because my youngest baby girl is also Class of 2026. We’re beginning my last year of a child at home, which is just crazy. #dontblink

The timing worked out perfectly for golden hour, and the Parthenon delivered exactly what I hoped it would. First, I found this beautiful little flower garden for the first part of the session. Then the architecture of the building itself gives you so many options – those massive columns create incredible leading lines, and the light filtering through them was just beautiful. We moved around the entire structure, finding different angles and perspectives that kept the session feeling fresh.

I love how locations like this seem to bring out something special in seniors. Maybe it’s the grandeur of the setting, but she just owned every pose and seemed completely at ease in front of the camera. The variety we captured was impressive – everything from dramatic wide shots that show the full scale of the building to more intimate portraits tucked between the columns.

As I’m working through these images, I keep thinking about how this kicks off my Class of 2026 sessions. If this is any indication of what’s coming, it’s going to be a great senior season. There’s something about this particular moment in their lives that I find so compelling to capture – they’re right on the edge of everything changing.

I’m grateful this family was up for the Nashville adventure and trusted me to document this important time. Sometimes stepping outside your usual routine leads to the best sessions.

Interested in planning your senior session? I’d love to talk about your ideas and help create something special for this milestone. Get in touch to start planning!

Downtown Columbia Senior Session | Class of 2025

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Downtown Columbia TN Senior Pics - Senior girl browsing records at Variety Record Shop

With graduation parties filling up my calendar these next few weeks, I’ve been thinking about all the parents of this year’s seniors. Last year, I was in your place with my oldest graduating, and I’ll be there again next year with my youngest. It’s definitely an emotional time.

I miss my oldest, but seeing her grow and experience new adventures during her first year of college has been one of the great joys of my life. The next stage is different, but it has its own kind of awesome too.

I’ve enjoyed getting to know so many seniors from the Class of 2025 this year. Each one has their own unique personality and interests, which makes every session different.

This session downtown was particularly fun. When she mentioned wanting photos at Duck River Books and Variety Record Shop, I was immediately on board. Her mom contacted both businesses ahead of time for permission (which I always require when shooting in local businesses), and I’m glad they said yes.

I love how each location showed a different side of her personality. The bookstore had a quieter vibe while the record store brought out more energy. She brought along a favorite book and record to include in her portraits, which I loved. I’m not into elaborate props, but meaningful personal items that tell something about who someone is? Those always make for better photos.

After our indoor locations, we moved outside to capture some portraits at a few of my favorite downtown Columbia spots. The light was perfect, and she moved easily between poses and genuine smiles.

What I appreciated most was how her personality came through in every photo. Whether she was surrounded by books, looking through records, or standing on the downtown streets, she was just being herself.

If you have a senior heading into their final year of high school, I’d love to create a session that captures who they really are at this point in their lives.

Downtown Columbia TN Senior Pics - Senior girl browsing records at Variety Record Shop

Together Again: A Chilly Spring Session

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Family pics at Marcelle Vivrette Smith park in Franklin TN

I love when families come together for photos, especially when it involves someone traveling from far away. This session brought me together with a couple and their adult sons who came together from different places, with one making the journey from overseas where he now lives.

Mother Nature had other plans for our May session, surprising us with an unseasonably chilly Tennessee day. But this family didn’t miss a beat. They quickly adapted, switching up their planned outfits for warmer options that would keep them comfortable throughout our time together. I’m always impressed when clients can roll with the unexpected – it speaks volumes about their flexibility and focus on what truly matters: the connection, not the perfect conditions.

I always encourage clients to “dress to feel like yourself” – it’s a core part of my photography philosophy. This approach pays off in multiple ways, especially when facing unexpected challenges like our chilly May weather. When you choose favorites from your closet rather than stressing over something new, it’s much easier to adapt while still feeling comfortable and authentic in front of the camera.

This family embodied that flexibility perfectly. They quickly adjusted their clothing choices for comfort while maintaining their personal style. I was particularly impressed by how their sweaters in deep, rich tones complemented each other so beautifully against the field’s natural backdrop – creating a cohesive look without feeling overly matched or forced. This natural coordination is exactly what happens when everyone chooses pieces they love and feel good wearing.

If you have loved ones visiting from afar, I’d love to help you preserve those precious moments together. Reach out to book your session!

Downtown Franklin Senior Session: Timing is Everything

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Senior pics in Downtown Franklin, close up of Senior guy with chin in his hand.

Sometimes the best photo sessions happen because of a last-minute save! I was all set for a senior guy session in downtown Franklin this past weekend when my friend Chelsea casually mentioned the Franklin Main Street Festival. Cue the immediate panic! I had no idea this was happening, and trying to navigate senior portraits in the middle of festival crowds definitely wasn’t the plan.

The festival was scheduled to end at 6 PM with our session starting at 6:30, but I was still nervous about the lingering crowds, vendors packing up, and general chaos. Downtown Franklin was really what this senior wanted for his location, and I was determined to make it work for him.

Luckily, he was super flexible (something I always appreciate in clients!) and easily moved the session to Monday instead. And what a perfect decision that turned out to be – we had gorgeous weather, empty-ish streets, and and a perfect night for pictures.

This session reminded me that sometimes the backup plan turns out even better than the original. Monday evening in downtown Franklin offered us quieter streets and more flexibility to use different spots without navigating around festival cleanup. We even managed to grab a few shots by the theater marquee, which would have been impossible during the festival.

If you’re a senior (or parent of a senior) looking for portraits that capture this important milestone with a natural, relaxed approach, I’d love to chat about creating images that truly represent who you are. Your session doesn’t have to be downtown – we can find the perfect location that tells your unique story!

[Contact me here to start planning your senior session]

Why Rush? The Benefits of Booking Your Senior Session Early

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Senior Guy Photos on a road at Yahnali Park in Columbia TN

I spent yesterday evening with this amazing senior guy at Yahanali Park in Columbia – one of my absolute favorite natural spots for senior pictures. The park put on quite a show for us with these gorgeous patches of yellow and red wildflowers (weeds? I don’t know, but I love them anyway) creating the perfect natural backdrop. And that newly paved road? What used to be a quiet gravel drive has transformed into what looks like a major highway with fresh paint and all. It made for some surprisingly cool and unique backdrops that really pop in his images!

This session was extra special because we also captured a few shots of his little sister during our time together. This is something I’m always happy to accommodate! Sometimes I even combine senior sessions with full family sessions – it’s really up to you how you want to use your session time. These moments of siblings together during such a milestone year are often some of the most treasured images from the session.

This past week has been filled with senior sessions, and my calendar for next week is just as packed, even though we’re already into May and just weeks away from graduation day. All these families had perfectly good reasons for scheduling their sessions this late in the year, and the photos are turning out beautifully, but I’m noticing something too – there’s definitely an added layer of stress when we’re working this close to the wire.

The biggest challenge? Weather. Since my sessions are exclusively outdoors, we sometimes need to reschedule for rain or storms. This is normally no big deal, but when you’re already down to your last few weeks before announcement orders need to go in, having to reschedule can create some serious stress. Plus, these seniors have so much happening right now – prom, awards banquets, final exams, graduation preparations – finding another time slot that works can be like solving a complex puzzle!

While spring senior sessions are absolutely beautiful and I’m happy to accommodate them, I want to make a gentle case to those of you with rising seniors (yes, parents of juniors, I’m talking to you!): Summer is actually the perfect low-stress time for senior portraits.

I know what you’re thinking – “But Crystal, it’s so hot in Tennessee summers!” And you’re absolutely right. But here’s my promise: I’m completely open to rescheduling for extreme heat within reason. We won’t be shooting on those 100-degree days, and we schedule for evenings when the light is magical and the temperatures are more bearable.

Booking your senior’s session in the summer means:

  • No competition with busy school schedules
  • Plenty of time for any weather reschedules
  • Zero stress about meeting announcement deadlines
  • More flexibility with dates and times
  • A relaxed experience rather than one more thing on an already-packed senior year to-do list

When your teen comes back from their summer session with me, they’ll have their entire senior year to enjoy their images, share them with friends, and you’ll have all the time you need to thoughtfully select announcement photos without rushing.

While I’m absolutely loving these May sessions (those spring blooms are worth it!), I just want to plant that seed for those of you with juniors at home. Let’s make your senior’s portrait experience as stress-free as possible by planning ahead!

And now, I can’t wait to share some of my favorite images from this recent Yahanali Park session.

Smith Park Senior Session: Thoughts on Photography and Privacy

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Senior Pics at Marcelle Vivretee Smith Park - Senior Guy in Cap & Gown on tree lined path

What a relief when the rain finally stopped just in time for our senior session at Marcelle Vivrette Smith Park! The ground was still wet, but we made it work with a step stool for sitting poses.

This park is perfect for spring sessions with its tree-lined path, small pond, and stone springhouse. We got so many different looks without having to trek all over the place.

During our time together, we talked about how I handle privacy on social media. I wanted to share my approach since it might not be obvious to everyone.

First and foremost, I completely respect when clients prefer not to have their photos shared at all. While I do appreciate the opportunity to showcase my work (it’s how future clients find me!), your comfort is always the priority. I actually include a question about sharing on socials in my client questionnaire. But especially with teens, I try to remember to ask them directly too, not just their parents. Their comfort with being featured on my business page matters just as much to me, and they possibly have different preferences than their parents expect.

For the clients who do allow me to share their images, I’ve developed some personal guidelines that I follow consistently. The big one is that I don’t tag clients or use their names in my posts. This isn’t because I’m not proud of the amazing people I photograph – quite the opposite! It’s simply my way of giving clients control over their online presence. You’re absolutely welcome to tag yourself, share the images, and tell the world about your experience if you choose to, but I wanted that decision to remain firmly in your hands.

It’s especially important to me when photographing young people that their full names aren’t directly connected to their images in a way that makes them easily searchable. I want my posts to focus on the artistry of the photography and the genuine moments we captured, rather than creating a digital footprint someone might not want down the road.

I’m not sure if this is common practice among photographers, but it’s the approach that feels right to me. It’s just one small way I try to balance sharing my work with respecting the privacy of the amazing people who trust me to capture their memories.

If you’re interested in booking your own spring session at this beautiful location (or any other spot around Spring Hill), I’d love to hear from you!

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.

Springtime Family Photo Session at Smith Park in Brentwood

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Springtime Family Pictures at Marcella Vivrette Smith Park

I had the best time with these two adorable sisters (ages 5 and 8) at Marcelle Vivretee Smith Park in Brentwood last week! We instantly connected over our shared love of Wicked, Barbie movies, and blowing dandelions. They even chatted about their teachers at Chapman’s Retreat – always sweet to hear kids who love school! (My own daughters went there too, and I was even PTO president there for a while. The teachers at Chapman’s are truly something special!)

As a mom of two girls myself (now almost grown!), these sessions with young sisters always hold a special place in my heart. There’s something about capturing that unique bond between siblings that takes me back to when my own daughters were this age – those fleeting moments of childhood wonder that pass by so quickly.

The biggest challenge with these two wasn’t getting them to smile or pose naturally – it was trying to narrow down their gallery to a reasonable number of photos! Every shot captured something special about their relationship and personalities.

What made this session extra meaningful was that it was actually a gift from Grandma to the girls’ parents for their anniversary. I love this idea! Instead of another household item that eventually becomes clutter, she gave them something that will last forever – captured memories of their beautiful children at this precious age.

This reminds me – gift certificates for photo sessions make such thoughtful presents. They’re available on my website for birthdays, holidays, new babies, or just because. In a world full of stuff, sometimes the most meaningful gift is preserving a moment in time.

Looking to give something special? Check out my gift certificates page!

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.