Downtown Columbia Senior Session | Spring Hill, TN Senior Photographer

Senior girl photos in Downtown Franklin

Downtown Columbia never gets old for senior sessions. The textures, the brick, the way late afternoon light hits those old walls — it works every single time, and this session was no exception.

This senior was a dream to photograph. She came ready to just go with it, and that kind of energy makes everything easier. We wandered, we played with light, and found some genuinely fun spots — including a peeling concrete wall that I almost walked past and am so glad I didn’t.

My favorite moments were the ones where she stopped thinking about the camera. The laugh against the texture wall, the eyes-closed shot with the sun on her face, the shadow playing off the concrete behind her — those felt real, and that’s always what I’m going for.

Ready to book your senior session? I’d love to work with you. [Book here] or reach out through the contact page.

Navigating the Chaos: A Day in the Life of an Extended Family Photoshoot

This week, I had the pleasure of embarking on a whirlwind adventure at Yanahali Park in Columbia, TN, capturing the beautiful chaos of an extended family session. As always, it was a rollercoaster ride of laughter, love, and a whole lot of photos.

When it comes to photographing large groups, having a solid structure in place is key to ensuring we capture all the essential photo combinations. But let’s be real – with kids running around and grandparents trying to corral them, sticking to a rigid plan isn’t always feasible. That’s why I like to approach these sessions with a loose plan, ready to improvise and adapt at a moment’s notice.

So, how do I tackle the madness? Well, it all starts with the grand finale – the big group photo. Wrangling everyone into position and getting them to smile simultaneously is no small feat, but hey, I love a good challenge!

Next up, it’s all about the grandkids. I mean, who can resist those adorable little faces? I aim to capture the sweet bond between grandparents and grandkids, freezing those precious moments in time for generations to come.

And then there’s the individual family shots. From the rowdy toddlers to the camera-shy teenagers, each family brings its own unique energy to the table. I always start with the family that’s likely to be the trickiest to photograph – usually the one with the two-year-old tornado in tow. You know they are my favorite, but also the most likely to take some extra time.

As I work my way through the session, I keep my eyes peeled for those spontaneous moments that truly capture the essence of the family. Whether it’s a sibling group hug or a playful exchange between generations, these candid shots often end up being the real gems of the day.

Of course, no extended family session would be complete without a few snaps of the “original family” – the adult children with their parents. It’s a beautiful reminder of the ties that bind us together, across generations and miles.

And finally, as the session draws to a close, I aim for one last group photo. By this point, everyone is usually feeling more relaxed and at ease, resulting in some of the most genuine smiles of the day. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an incredible session and send everyone home with memories to cherish forever.

But remember, this is just a loose plan. I’m constantly adapting and adjusting on the fly, allowing for breaks, wardrobe changes after the baby spits up, etc. . After all, photography isn’t just about capturing poses – it’s about capturing moments, emotions, and memories that will last a lifetime.

So, there you have it – a day in the life of an extended family photoshoot. It’s chaotic, it’s unpredictable, but above all, it’s filled with love and laughter. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Fall Family Photo Sessions: Embracing Jewel Tones and Textures

Family portrait session in Columbia TN with gorgeous fall colors. Crystal Freemon Photography

Fall is a magical season, filled with vibrant colors and a crisp, refreshing air that makes it the perfect time for family photo sessions. While the backdrop of nature’s beauty is set, choosing the right clothing can be an essential aspect of capturing stunning and memorable portraits. In this blog post, we’ll explore the delightful world of rich jewel-toned colors and how they can transform your fall family photos.

1. Jewel Tones: A Symphony of Elegance

Gone are the days of everyone wearing matching outfits in family photos. A more modern and visually appealing approach is to have each family member wear a different rich jewel-toned color. Consider deep wine red, royal blue, emerald green, and other luxurious hues. These colors bring an immediate touch of elegance to your photos and create a vibrant, yet harmonious, composition. The play of distinct colors can reflect your family’s unique personalities and dynamics.

2. Coordination Over Matching

To achieve a coordinated look without looking too uniform, it’s helpful to establish a color palette in advance. Discuss and choose a range of complementary jewel tones that everyone will incorporate into their outfits. By sticking to this color scheme, you’ll create a harmonious look without the need for identical ensembles. This approach adds depth and individuality to your family portraits.

3. Texture and Layers: Adding Dimension

Fall is all about cozy comfort, and this can be translated into your wardrobe choices. Incorporating different textures in clothing adds visual interest to your photos. Sweaters, scarves, and cardigans can provide that much-needed texture and warmth. The interplay of different fabrics against the backdrop of autumn’s natural textures, such as falling leaves and bark, creates a visually appealing contrast.

4. Accessories: The Final Flourish

Don’t forget about the little details that can make a big difference. Statement jewelry, cozy hats, and scarves can elevate your family’s look. These accessories can add individuality and create focal points within the composition.

5. Express Yourself

Lastly, it’s essential to be comfortable and feel like yourself during the photo session. Clothing choices should reflect your family’s unique style and personalities. When everyone feels good in their chosen outfits, it shines through in the photos.

In conclusion, fall family photo sessions are a perfect opportunity to capture the beauty of the season alongside your loved ones. By embracing rich jewel-toned colors, choosing coordination over matching, adding texture and layers, and incorporating accessories, you can create memorable and visually striking family portraits. Remember to select your clothing with intention, ensuring that it represents your family’s authentic spirit while adding a touch of elegance to your photos.

At-Home Newborn Photo Session in Columbia TN

Columbia TN Newborn Portrait Photography

I first met this lovely family a little over two years ago for their maternity photo session, and then shortly thereafter had the honor of shooting an at-home newborn session for their first baby.

This week I got to return for baby #2. It is such a joy and a privilege to be able to capture a newborn session and then to be able to return a couple years later and see that newborn growing into the BEST big sister. Congratulations to this new family of four.

Family Portrait Session in Columbia Tennessee

Family portrait session in Columbia TN

These sweet girls were the best. We had so much fun at their family photo session in Columbia. Yanahli Park has become one of my favorite locations for portrait sessions. There is a field there where the sun sets in just the right spot.

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.