Category: Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson’s Station Park)

Santa Minis at Sarah Benson Park: A Holiday Tradition

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Santa Photos with Crystal Freemon Photography in Spring Hill TN baby crying on Santa's lap.

My Santa Mini sessions have become one of my favorite traditions over the years. Sunday at Sarah Benson Park was absolutely gorgeous—though I have to admit, nothing will ever quite top the time it snowed during my Santa Minis back in 2020. That was pure magic.

It’s hard to believe I’ve been photographing Santa pictures in some form since 2015. It started when I volunteered to shoot photos at the elementary school Santa Breakfast that I helped organize through the PTO. My own girls were little then—now one is in college and the other starts next year. Time really does fly. As my kids moved on to middle school, my friend Michelle and I shifted gears and started doing Santa photos for the middle school band’s holiday marketplace fundraiser.

But 2020 changed everything. That year, I started these outdoor mini sessions with Nashville Santa. I wanted families to have a safe way to visit with Santa during the pandemic, so we took everything outside. What began as a solution to an uncertain time has turned into something I look forward to every single year.

The best part? So many of the same families come back year after year. I get to watch these kids grow up, see the little ones who were shy and unsure become confident and chatty. It’s become woven into their Christmas traditions, and honestly, it’s become part of mine too. These sessions are how I officially kick off my own holiday season—surrounded by families who trust me to capture this fleeting moment in their lives, with a Santa who truly embodies the spirit of the season.

A Peek Behind the Magic

Here’s a little secret about Santa photos with the youngest ones: sometimes they want absolutely nothing to do with sitting on Santa’s lap. And you know what? That’s completely okay. I’ve gotten pretty good at a little Photoshop magic to make it all come together. We’ll get sweet shots of the kids on their own, capture Santa being his wonderful self, and then blend them together so families still get that classic Santa photo they’re hoping for. It’s all part of making sure every family walks away with images they’ll treasure, even when the littlest ones aren’t quite ready to embrace the jolly man in red.

There’s something about seeing familiar faces come back, about being a small part of how they mark the passage of time and celebrate together. It reminds me why I love what I do.

Fall Family Session at Sarah Benson Park

Posted in Big Kids, Family, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park), Seniors & TeensTagged , , , , , Leave a comment
Family portraits in Thompson Station Tennessee

There’s something really special about photographing families that I’ve worked with before. When this family reached out to book another session—eight years after their first—I was genuinely excited to capture them again.

We met at Sarah Benson Park on one of those perfect fall evenings where the light just does all the work for you. The golden hour sun filtered through the trees, and I was thrilled that we still had gorgeous color on the leaves. Sometimes mid-November can be hit or miss with foliage here in Tennessee, but this was absolutely worth the wait.

The entire session was just so easy. The boys have grown so much since our last session, but the connection between all of them is exactly what I remembered—easy laughter, genuine smiles, and that relaxed energy that makes my job feel less like work and more like hanging out with friends.

I came away from this session with images I absolutely love. There’s something about photographing return clients that feels like coming full circle—I get to see the story continue, and these families become part of my own journey as a photographer. I’ve included their photo from eight years ago below so you can see just how much has changed.

I can’t believe it’s been 8 years since I took this photo.

If it’s been a few years since your last family session, there’s never been a better time to update those photos. I’d love to photograph your family’s next chapter—reach out and let’s plan something beautiful together.

Sarah Benson Park Family Session – Spring Hill, TN

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , Leave a comment
Sarah Benson Park Family Session – Spring Hill, TN

Is it weird to have favorite trees? Not the ones in your yard, but specific trees out in the world that you go out of your way to visit? Because I absolutely do, and several of them are clustered together in one perfect spot at Sarah Benson Park. This is exactly why I love photographing families here in the fall—there’s this cluster of trees that light up with the most gorgeous colors, and when the late afternoon sun streams through their leaves, it’s pure magic.

We had the most beautiful day for this session with a sweet family of three. After the super cold snap earlier in the week, it felt like we’d sprung back to life just in time to catch those last bits of fall color still clinging to the trees. The weather was perfect, the light was dreamy, and this almost-two-year-old brought all the personality you’d expect from someone on the cusp of turning two.

I absolutely adore working with toddlers. They’re so authentic, so completely in their own world. This little guy was completely fascinated by the dump trucks working somewhere in the park (does anyone know what they’re doing over there?). Every time he heard one rumble by, everything else took a backseat to truck-watching. Those genuine reactions are exactly what make toddler sessions so real and memorable.

This was my first time photographing this family, and I loved capturing all the in-between moments—the ones where parents are just being parents, wrangling a busy toddler while still managing to connect with each other. We wandered through the park, followed his lead when he wanted to explore, and grabbed those fleeting moments of connection when they happened. There’s something about that golden light filtering through fall leaves that makes even the chaotic moments feel warm and beautiful.

I left this session with a camera full of real moments—the kind that show exactly what life with a toddler looks like right now.

Ready to capture your family’s story at Sarah Benson Park or another beautiful Tennessee location? I’d love to work with you! Book your session today and let’s create something beautiful together.

A Multi-Generational Family Session at the Perfect Fall Moment in Spring Hill

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , Leave a comment
Multigenerational Photo Session in Spring Hill TN

There’s something incredibly special about photographing multiple generations together. When this family reached out to schedule a session that would include not just mom, dad, and their adorable six-year-old daughter, but five of her grandparents as well, I knew it would be meaningful. What I didn’t know was that the timing would work out so perfectly.

I first photographed this sweet girl when she was just a baby, so getting to see her again—now full of personality and energy—was such a treat. But having the opportunity to capture her with all of her grandparents together? That’s the kind of session that reminds me why I love what I do.

We lucked out with the weather in a big way. This session happened right before the cold snap we’re experiencing now, on one of those perfect fall days where the temperature is just right and the leaves are at peak color. The lighting was gorgeous, and everyone was relaxed and happy to be together.

The real fun happened at the end of the session when this little one asked me to join her at the playground for some photos. How could I resist? We spent those final minutes capturing her joy and energy as she played, and honestly, it was the perfect way to end the session. Sometimes the best moments happen when you let kids just be kids.

Ready to capture your own family’s story? I’d love to work with you to create authentic, joyful images that you’ll treasure for years to come. Reach out to schedule your session, and let’s find the perfect time to document your family’s connections and crazy, beautiful mess.

Fall Family Mini Session in Spring Hill, TN | Perfect November Colors

Posted in Big Kids, Family, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Fall Family Mini Session in Spring Hill, TN | Perfect November Colors

One of the trickiest parts of scheduling fall mini sessions is dealing with unpredictable Tennessee weather. When I set November 2nd as my original date with a backup weekend, I had no idea just how much that flexibility would matter.

As the original date approached, the forecast started looking questionable. There was a real chance of rain, and while I thought we’d probably be okay, I also know that waiting until the last minute to make weather calls can be incredibly stressful for families. Some people are comfortable taking the chance, while others need more certainty to arrange their schedules and outfits. That’s exactly why I give clients the choice—reschedule early to the backup date, or wait it out and see what happens.

I had six families scheduled for the original mini date. Five decided to chance it, while one family chose to reschedule right away, which allowed them to coordinate work schedules to make the backup weekend work. And wouldn’t you know it—November 2nd turned out to be absolutely beautiful. The family who rescheduled expressed some regret when they saw how nice the weather was. But here’s the thing—that apprehension turned out to be completely unfounded because the backup date was even more perfect.

Here’s what I’ve learned after 10 years of doing this: you simply cannot regret your weather-related rescheduling decisions. We all make the best choices we can with the information we have at the time, and weather forecasts are notoriously unreliable. That’s why I try to be as flexible as possible and let each client decide their own comfort level with uncertainty. While I want to offer clients as much flexibility as possible, I also don’t have the capacity to endlessly reschedule in pursuit of perfect weather conditions. That’s especially true with mini sessions, which is exactly why I build in that rain backup from the start.

(Note: While I absolutely allow flexibility for rain chances or extreme cold, I can’t reschedule because it’s cloudy. Some clients get apprehensive about overcast weather, thinking they need bright sunshine for gorgeous photos. But that’s not the case at all—overcast skies can create beautifully moody, soft light that’s incredibly flattering.)

What I’m most thrilled about is that the fall colors were absolutely stunning on both weekends. Many people assume the most gorgeous autumn color happens in October, but I’ve consistently found that early November is the real sweet spot here in Tennessee. The leaves were perfect on the original date, and they were still perfect the following weekend.

And this past Saturday, November 8th? I’m calling it—that was officially the most perfect day of the entire year. The light, the temperature, the colors—everything came together beautifully. This family’s session was filled with genuine smiles, cozy fall vibes, and that golden hour glow that makes my photographer heart so happy. Getting to capture these moments when everything aligns is exactly why I love what I do.

Ready to book your own family session? I’d love to photograph your family and capture the connections that make you unique. You can contact me through my website or follow along on Instagram and Facebook for updates on availability and upcoming sessions.

Fall Mini Sessions at Sarah Benson Park: Why the Right Clients Make All the Difference

Posted in Big Kids, Family, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park), Seniors & TeensTagged , , , , , Leave a comment
2025 Fall Mini Sessions at Sarah Benson Park with Crystal Freemon Photography

Wanna know a secret? I still get nervous before sessions, even after 10 years. I always worry about doing a good job and really want clients to love their images. It’s definitely less so than in the beginning, but I find myself especially nervous before mini sessions.

I’ve made no secret of the fact that I don’t love mini sessions, but I acknowledge they’re a great choice for certain families. I just hate that I’m not able to chat more with clients at a mini—it’s very hurried so there isn’t that same time to leisurely get to know everyone. My favorite photos have always been the more “messy” ones that show emotion. You might think those are easier to get than more posed photos, but I’ve found we’re all preconditioned to pose for photos, so it takes time to get people to relax enough to capture those genuine moments.

Also, I have just never been one for small galleries. I know I over-deliver on the number of photos and I can’t help it. I’m just never going to be the photographer who delivers 5-10 mini session images—it’s just not who I am. I think the biggest problem I have with minis is I’ve never been able to accept that they’re supposed to include fewer photos, less variety, etc. So I get extra nervous going into minis worried if I can still give clients everything I think they deserve in that shorter timeline.

A big part of whether or not I succeed is if the right clients are the ones booking minis. These are not, for example, for the family of five with three children under five. Please don’t do that to me. LOL.

Another reason minis are challenging is that it’s really complicated when the weather doesn’t cooperate. I had set a rain date for this session for Sunday, November 9th. As of early Saturday morning, there was a pretty decent chance we might have been rained out yesterday, but also a pretty good chance the rain would be gone by afternoon. I wasn’t sure what to do because I know it can be really stressful for clients to wait and see what happens with the weather. Some are fine waiting until the last minute, and others really aren’t. I don’t want photos to be a stressful experience, so I gave clients the option to either switch to next week’s rain date or wait it out. One client chose to wait until next week, which I totally understand. The weather turned out to be lovely, but it’s never wrong to make the best decision for your family given the information available.

The great news for anyone who wanted Fall Minis but didn’t get booked in time is that I’m going to open up some last-minute mini spots along with the client who rescheduled for Sunday, November 9th, with the caveat that I don’t have a rain day planned, so if we do get rained out, we’ll have to figure out another option.

Now, let me tell you about these families and why they were perfect choices for a mini session.

The first family was one I photographed several years back—I don’t even remember how long it’s been, but at that time the children were quite young, and we had a lovely full session at Yanahli Park. So they were a perfect fit for minis because we had worked together before and I knew them, but now they were much older so a mini was exactly what they needed.

The second family of five was new to me, but all teenagers, and as mom said, “no one is shy.” They were quick to warm to the camera and easy to photograph. Mom wanted family photos but also wanted some senior shots of the oldest daughter, so I focused on getting more individuals of her than the rest. This can be a good choice for seniors as long as you’re okay with no outfit changes, not choosing your location, and generally having less variety of poses and backdrops. Though I do feel like Sarah Benson allows us to get decent variety all in one little area. I’m pleased with how they turned out and hope mom was able to get everything she wanted.

These photos of the third family might be some of my top favorites of all time, but I feel like it needs a very big disclaimer. I think it’s fair to say that almost no one should bring three dogs to a mini session. 😂 (Though I absolutely welcome all your dogs, cooperative or not, to a full family session. We will make it work…they are family.) That being said, this isn’t a normal family and these dogs are just the most amazing professionals. And I knew that already because I follow them on Instagram. This mom is actually a fellow photographer who I admire and have become colleagues with—we exchange discussions on locations, Lightroom errors, etc. So these children and dogs are literally professional subjects. She also knew exactly what to expect from a mini session. I actually didn’t take any individual photos of the girls because that’s something they already had plenty of. The focus was on family photos with the dogs, because that’s just too darn hard to get with a tripod and timer.

The last family is one of my closest friends, who has two teen boys. So another perfect choice for minis—older kids who know what they’re doing and a mom who gets it.

All of these sessions reminded me why having the right clients for mini sessions makes such a difference. When families understand what minis are about and come prepared, it really can work beautifully.

2025 Fall Mini Sessions at Sarah Benson Park with Crystal Freemon Photography

If you’re interested in those last-minute mini spots for November 9th, message me! Just remember—no rain backup plan, so we’ll be crossing our fingers for good weather.

When 25 Minutes is All You Need: Early Fall Mini Sessions in Spring Hill, TN

Posted in Big Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park), Seniors & TeensTagged , , , , , , Leave a comment
Fall Minis with Crystal Freemon Photography in Spring Hill TN

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not particularly good at the “mini” part of mini sessions. When I look through the images from this early fall session, I realize I took just about as many photos as I would during a full session. But you know what? That’s actually taught me something important about who mini sessions work best for.

This session was a bit of a last-minute addition. My November 2nd mini session date had completely filled up, and when another family reached out really hoping for a mini, I knew I wanted to make it work. The only catch? It was definitely early for peak fall color. But I also knew something else—the way the light filters through the trees at this location has this magical quality that, combined with a little editing warmth, creates that perfect autumn feeling even before the leaves have fully turned.

Here’s what I’ve realized through sessions like this one: 25 minutes is actually plenty of time to capture a full, beautiful gallery—but only for exactly the right family. Families with older children, no toddlers who need extra patience and coaxing, and not too many people wrangling for camera attention. For those families, mini sessions are absolutely perfect. We can move quickly, the kids cooperate beautifully, and everyone leaves happy without the time commitment of a full session.

These two families were exactly that sweet spot. With all teens, we moved through poses efficiently, captured genuine connection and beautiful portraits, and ended up with way more images than a typical mini session delivers. I couldn’t help myself.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “That sounds like my family”—I have great news. A last-minute schedule change just opened up ONE spot for my November 2nd mini sessions. If you act fast, you can still get in for fall mini sessions this year. I also have a few openings left for regular full sessions if you’d prefer more time and an even larger gallery.

Fall Minis with Crystal Freemon Photography in Spring Hill TN

Ready to book your fall session? Whether you’re perfect for a quick mini or want the full experience, I’d love to photograph your family this autumn. Head to my contact page or check my scheduling calendar to grab one of these last remaining spots before they’re gone!

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

Posted in Family, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
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!

Capturing Family Magic at Sarah Benson Park

Posted in Family, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park), UncategorizedTagged , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
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.

Finding the Magic in Simplicity: Santa Minis

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Every year, Santa Minis remind me of the beauty of simplicity and connection. Writing this blog post is my way of reminding myself to stay true to my style and vision as a photographer.

I’ve never been someone who gravitates toward elaborate props or highly stylized backgrounds. Give me sunshine and a field of weeds, and I’m in my element. For me, the focus of any session is always the people—their personalities, connections, and stories.

Now, to clarify: when I say “props,” I mean objects that are solely decorative and don’t hold personal meaning to the people in the photo. Items like cherished toys, musical instruments, or “lovies” are different—they’re part of the story and help tell who my subjects are.

I’ve embraced this minimalist approach for most of the year. I admire the creative sets and adorable props other photographers use, but they’re just not my style. That said, there’s something about Christmas that makes me second-guess myself when it comes to Santa Minis. I start to wonder, Should I add more Christmasy elements? Do I need props to make these sessions special?

This year, I decided to keep it simple with just a single wrapped gift and a lantern next to Santa. That plan lasted for about half of the first session. I quickly found myself moving them out of the way—they felt like distractions when I zoomed in on my subjects. I realized (again!) that simplicity is what feels most authentic to me.

By keeping the focus on the kids and their interactions with Santa, I’m able to capture moments that feel timeless and genuine. My favorite shots are often the unscripted ones: Santa walking hand-in-hand with a little one, or the quiet moments of a child deep in conversation with him. These photos pull at my heartstrings every time.

And, as always, Nashville Santa did not disappoint—he’s truly the real deal.

One of the things I love most about these sessions is the tradition. Every single family who booked this year was a repeat client. I’ve watched these kids grow over the years, and it’s so special to see how their relationships with Santa evolve. We’ve gone from Santa reading The Night Before Christmas to little ones, to older kids reading the book to Santa.

This year also brought new additions—babies born to families who’ve attended for years. While the first six sessions were miraculously tear-free, the littlest ones in the last two sessions brought some (adorable) tears. When that happens, I try to capture them from a distance, with Santa in the background. It’s not about forcing smiles; it’s about honoring the moment for what it is.

What I’ve learned is this: I don’t need elaborate sets or staged perfection to create meaningful photos. My goal is to document the magic of childhood and family in a way that feels real and unposed. And giving kids room to explore and roam during these sessions only adds to that magic.

For me, Santa Minis mark the start of the holiday season, and this year was no exception. I feel so grateful to be a part of this tradition for so many families, and I can’t wait to see what next year brings.

Save Your Spot for 2025!

If you’re interested in booking next year’s Santa Minis, make sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter for early booking announcements. These sessions fill up quickly, and I’d love to see your family there.

Fall Mini-Sessions at Sarah Benson Park 🍁

Posted in Big Kids, Family, Little Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , Leave a comment

Once a year, I offer fall mini-sessions, and this past weekend at Sarah Benson Park. Even though I generally prefer the relaxed pace of a full session—getting to know each family in-depth and allowing everyone time to feel comfortable in front of the camera—mini-sessions offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces in a short, fun burst of energy.

I always try to book these mini-sessions on a late October weekend, when the leaves are usually at their peak for fall color. This year, I was lucky enough to have all three mini-session slots filled by families I already know and love working with, which is always my hope for mini-sessions.

The first family I photographed was one I got to know earlier this year while capturing senior photos for their oldest. Seeing the whole family together was such a joy, and their teens were perfect for a mini-session—they’re at that age where they understand the flow of a photoshoot, which helps keep things moving smoothly.

The second session was with a family I’ve been photographing for years. Watching their girls grow up has been such a joy, and I can hardly believe how big they’re getting. Mini-sessions are a great way for families like this to update their family photos regularly without committing to a full session each year. And oh my goodness, the giggles. I just love these girls.

The final session was with one of my dearest friends from college and her family. Despite the limited time of a mini-session, we found a few moments for her little ones to run, play, and capture some natural, candid shots. Those small moments make even a quick session feel meaningful.

Interested in Booking?

If you’re ready to capture your own family memories, head over to my booking page or follow me on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on available sessions and seasonal offers.

Capturing Timeless Bonds: The Value of Family Photography Beyond Childhood

Posted in Family, Portrait Sessions, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park), Seniors & TeensTagged , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Family of four with grown children photo session at Sarah Benson Park

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

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

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

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

Capturing Genuine Moments: The Value of Full Portrait Sessions

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Newborns & Babies, Portrait Sessions, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Crystal Freemon Photography Fall Portrait Session with a family of five

This wonderful family initially considered booking a mini-session this year but opted for a full portrait session instead. I couldn’t be happier with their choice. It allowed us to spend more time together, which is something I truly cherish, especially when working with little clients.

In many cases, some of my favorite shots come toward the end of the session. At the outset, families often arrive with a sense of, “We’re here for photos, so let’s smile and pose.” But as we progress, my aim is to create an atmosphere where they’re there to have fun, connect, and express their love for one another, all while I capture those genuine moments.

One of the risks with mini-sessions, particularly with little ones, is that due to their back-to-back scheduling, there’s minimal flexibility when it comes to time. If it’s your allotted slot and a child is feeling cranky, shy, or experiencing a totally age-appropriate meltdown, there’s very little room to let them reset or warm up.

Full sessions, on the other hand, provide ample time to accommodate the natural shifts in a child’s mood or disposition, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

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

Capturing Autumn Magic: A Glimpse into My Fall Mini Sessions

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Newborns & Babies, Portrait Sessions, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , Leave a comment
Fall Mini Sessions at Sarah Benson Park in Thompson Station with Crystal Freemon Photography

I hope you’re as excited about autumn as I am. The fall season is like a breath of fresh, crisp air, filled with warm colors and cozy vibes. 🍂

Now, if you’ve been following my photography journey, you might know that I’m all about capturing those candid moments, the real emotions, and the true essence of each family I work with. Mini sessions have never been my go-to, but sometimes, they’re exactly what a family needs. This time around, I had the pleasure of capturing some beautiful moments with four fantastic families.

Three of them were familiar faces, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their continued trust in my work. It’s always a pleasure to see how the little ones have grown and to catch up with the parents. Plus, working with families I know well always makes the sessions feel effortless, natural, and fun.

One of the families was brand new to me, and I must say, I was thrilled with how well everything turned out. Their little one was an absolute sweetheart and definitely a breeze to work with. It’s a testament to the magic that can happen when the right elements come together – an easygoing baby, fantastic outfits that suit the season, and of course, the picture-perfect autumn backdrop.

Speaking of that backdrop, there’s something truly special about the way the trees transform during fall. Just like I keep an eye on the sun for the best lighting, I’ve also got a pretty good handle on when our area’s foliage is at its most stunning. And let me tell you, it doesn’t last nearly as long as I’d like! The vibrant, fiery colors are such a delight to work with, and the fall season is, without a doubt, my absolute favorite time of the year.

I’m all about capturing the unique beauty and warmth that each family brings to the frame. My approach has always been to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.

I hope you enjoy these snapshots of my fall mini-sessions as much as I did taking them. And remember, whether it’s a mini session or a more extended family shoot, I’m here to create beautiful memories for you. 📷🍁

Fall Mini Sessions at Sarah Benson Park in Thompson Station with Crystal Freemon Photography

Fall Mini Sessions have come to an end. 🍂 But the excitement doesn’t stop there!

As the holiday season approaches, I want to let you know that I still have a few openings for my Santa Mini Sessions on November 19th. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture some magical moments with Nashville Santa, and the photos are perfect for Holiday Cards. Whether it’s your first time in front of my lens or you’re one of my fantastic returning families, I can’t wait to create some enchanting memories with you. 🎅📷

Family Pics in Spring Hill TN

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Portrait Sessions, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , Leave a comment
Family portrait session at Sarah Benson Park in Spring Hill TN

Everyone knows that family sessions with toddlers and little kids are my favorite to photograph, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t challenging. But these three sisters were so easy to work with that it made my job a breeze! We had so much fun exploring Sara Benson Park in Spring Hill.

I’ve been photographing this sweet family since big sister was an only baby, and just love seeing how their family has grown.

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

Extended Family Session – Identifying Priorities

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Extended family session with Grandparents at Sarah Benson Park

I have a love/hate relationship with extended family sessions. I love being able to capture the love and joy in big family groups. I think it is a fantastic idea to capture all of these beautiful relationships. I especially love photographing grandparents with their grandbabies.

What I do not like is that there is never enough time to do what I want. I carry around a list in my head of all the shots I want to try to get at a family portrait session. This includes things like family standing looking at the camera, family standing hugging, family sitting, individuals of each child looking at the camera, candids of each child, siblings, etc. For a typical family session with 2 or 3 children, there is generally time to get all of those photos and have some time to relax and capture candid fun shots.

But when you bring in a large group with multiple individual families, I’ve learned that prioritization is the key. So on my session intake questions, I ask that clients booking a session for a large group let me know what they most want out of a session. That helps me understand what photographs to focus on because we just can’t normally get to everything I’d love to include. And it’s generally not a matter of just extending the session time, particularly if there are small children (and Dads). I find that people generally lose focus after about an hour so making session times longer doesn’t always help.

Prioritization was definitely important for this session. Even though all five children were under five years old, these kids did an amazing job and were such troopers. But it was so cold. The day before had been in the 70s, but that’s Tennessee weather for you. Rescheduling wasn’t an option because one of the families was visiting from out of town. We ended up having to hurry through and finish earlier than normal because it was so uncomfortable. But thankfully we had already discussed what the priorities were.

For this session, the most important thing the family wanted was a large group shot with everyone. Secondly, they wanted to focus on the grandchildren together with their grandparents. After that, I was able to get some other photos before everyone became too cold to continue. I am really glad I knew ahead of time what was most important to them. So if you are booking a photo session with lots of people, it’s a good idea to be clear about what you want most out of the session.

These beautiful children had me smiling the moment they got out of the car. I am so happy I got to capture this big, beautiful family.

Extended family session with Grandparents at Sarah Benson Park

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

Fall Family Photo Session in Spring Hill TN

Posted in Family, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Spring Hill TN Fall Family Portraits

I’m sure you all know by now that Fall is my favorite season. How could it not be? I love the gorgeous fall color, the pleasant temperature, and meeting lovely families for their fall portrait sessions.

One thing I wanted to note about this family portrait session was the playground photos. Sometimes I shoot at local parks that also have playgrounds. For some little ones, this can be a problem because they immediately want to go to the playground instead of doing photos. This is especially true if the park is somewhere they already frequent and if the kids are quite young. It’s just too much for them to understand we have to do photos before playtime. In those cases, I’ve had parents decide that a location without a playground is better for their session.

But if the children are a little older, like these cuties in this family session, it can work out quite well. Little brother saw the playground and wanted to go. I told him if he managed to give me some time to focus on photos first, we could all go to the playground together. I happen to love playground photos. They are a fun way to get candid photos of kids in their own element. So if we are able to use it as an incentive, then I’m all for it.

The swings are my favorite. Is there anything that symbolizes the carfree wonder of childhood like a swing?

Spring Hill TN Fall Family Portraits

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

Senior Guy Session in Spring Hill, TN

Posted in Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park), Seniors & TeensTagged , , , , , Leave a comment

This is probably too many photos for a sneak peek, but I can’t help it. I have decision fatigue and also I just love this Senior Portrait Session. Everything was perfect…the weather, the leaves, and the subject.

I wish every day could be late October in Middle Tennessee.

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

Family of Four and the Family Dog at Sarah Benson Park

Posted in Family, Little Kids, Newborns & Babies, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Family Photos in Thompson Station Tennessee with Family Dog

Oh my goodness, there is so much sweetness in this family portrait session. These girls were so much fun to photograph. And as a bonus, they brought along their family dog. I am always game for families to include their pooches in family photos sessions, but it’s especially fun now that I’ve added my own puppy to my family. Our pets are so important to us and are part of the family, so it makes sense to include them in family pictures.

Family Photos in Thompson Station Tennessee with Family Dog

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

Family of 3 Portrait Session at Sarah Benson Park

Posted in Newborns & Babies, Sarah Benson Park, (formerly known as Thompson's Station Park)Tagged , , , , , , Leave a comment
Family Portraits at Sarah Benson Park

This family portrait session at Sarah Benson Park turned out so great that it makes me want to schedule more morning sessions. I schedule most of my portrait sessions for magic hour. The hour before sunset is my favorite light for photographing portraits. But sometimes those magic hour sessions are too late for little ones, especially in the summer. While I do love evening light, the MOST important thing is that my little clients are happy.

For clients who can’t manage a magic hour photo session, I am happy to schedule a morning session. The only caveat about booking during the day is that we need a location where there is plenty of shade. Harsh sunlight is not great for photos, so location is particularly important for daytime sessions. Sarah Benson Park (formerly known as Thompson Station Park) is a great spot.

It’s kind of funny because Sarah Benson Park is not one of my favorite spots for evening sessions. There is just one reason. It’s the sunset – the sun sets right behind the recycling station. As someone who likes to shoot into the sun, the recycling station is not my idea of a great backdrop. But in the mornings, the sun is coming through the trees on the other side of the park. That’s why it’s a great spot for morning photos.

I’m so glad it worked out well. Little Easton is the absolute cutest, and it was a great day hanging with this new family of three.

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