Tag: Franklin TN photographer

A Golden Evening at Harlinsdale Farms | Gold Hope Session | Spring Hill, TN Family Photographer

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I had the honor of photographing a Gold Hope session at Harlinsdale Farms in Franklin, and from the first few minutes I could tell this family was something special. The energy between these four kids — twins who are ten, a spirited three-year-old, and the sweetest six-month-old — was exactly the kind of beautiful chaos I love to capture.

We kept things simple — one beautiful spot at Harlinsdale with gorgeous evening light doing most of the work. I didn’t need to move this family all over the property to get variety. Connection does that on its own. A family hug that turns into a pile of giggles. A big sister holding her baby brother. Twins whispering secrets. A three-year-old doing three-year-old things. Every combination told a different part of their story.

The editing for this one felt intentional too — I leaned into warm, golden tones throughout the gallery to honor the Gold Hope mission and the golden hour light we were given that evening. It just felt right.

I’m so grateful this family trusted me with these memories. This is the kind of work that fills my cup and reminds me exactly why I picked up a camera in the first place.

The Gold Hope Project provides free portrait sessions for pediatric cancer patients to bring awareness to childhood cancer and provide funding for a cure. You can learn more about Gold Hope at goldhope.org.

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.

Senior Guy Session at McEwan Northside | Franklin TN Senior Photographer

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Senior Guy Session at McEwan Northside Jenis Ice Cream

I absolutely love when seniors choose locations that actually mean something to them, and this session at McEwan Northside in Franklin was exactly that. When I learned this was where he and his friends hang out after school – especially at Jeni’s Ice Cream – I knew we’d capture something authentic.

I’d never shot at McEwan Northside before, but I knew it would work beautifully. I’m always up for considering a new location when clients suggest it, but I do sometimes worry if the lighting will be OK. But I knew this location had lots of taller buildings, creating open shade and opportunities for the sun to peek around corners or reflect off windows. I could already envision the variety of lighting we’d get to play with.

This place is a photographer’s playground – modern architecture with clean lines, vibrant murals that add instant personality to any shot, and thoughtful landscaping that softens all those urban edges. The only real challenge was trying to focus while the smell of North Italia’s kitchen kept wafting over. I’m definitely planning a dinner date there soon because those aromas were torture!

We centered several shots around Jeni’s since that’s where he spends the most time, and I couldn’t help but get excited at how perfectly his Tennessee orange coordinated with their branding. The murals were another unexpected bonus – that vibrant artwork gave us such dynamic backgrounds to work with.

There’s something about photographing someone in their element that just works. The modern vibe of McEwan Northside paired with the golden hour light created exactly the look we were going for. Between the architecture, the murals, and that perfect afternoon light, these images were so much fun to create.

I’m already excited to come back to McEwan Northside with future clients. It’s got everything I look for in an urban session spot, plus that bonus of actually meaning something to the local seniors who spend time there.

Ready to book your senior session at a location that’s meaningful to you? I’d love to capture your story! Contact me to get started.

Stunning Senior Portraits at South 40 in Franklin, TN

Posted in Seniors & Teens, South 40 Farm, UncategorizedTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
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.

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.

Finding the Light and the Magic: A Harlinsdale Family Session

Posted in Big Kids, Family, Little Kids, The Park at Harlinsdale FarmsTagged , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Sometimes, even the most well-planned photo sessions throw you a curveball. This one started with a little adventure. I arrived early, as I always do, planning to meet the family near the canoe launch at Harlinsdale Farms. But when I got there, the main gate was closed. There’s been ongoing construction at the park for a while, but I’ve never seen it completely closed off.

With no way to drive to my planned location, I parked near the dog park and took a moment to reassess. The spot I’d originally chosen was all about the light—the way the sun filters beautifully through the trees. Luckily, I found a similar area on the other side of the park. It was a reminder of why I always say that lighting, followed closely by texture, is the most important element in choosing a location. The backdrop matters, but the true focus of any portrait should always be the people. (It was also a great reminder of why I always show up super early, even when I’m very familiar with a session location.)

And speaking of the people—this family was an absolute joy to photograph. The youngest member of the family completely stole my heart. My favorite photos from any session are often the less posed, “messy” moments—the ones where not everyone is looking at the camera but instead are caught up in genuine connection. Those moments are harder to capture with larger families. It’s a delicate dance: getting everyone in the frame, bathed in beautiful light, while looking natural and relaxed.

We often say we love candid photos, but true candids would mean I just follow you around, documenting life as it unfolds. What I actually do is more like planned candids. I guide everyone into the frame, in the right light, and then encourage them to interact as they naturally would. It’s a tall order—unless there’s a two-year-old leading the way.

That’s where the magic happens. Adults and older kids often feel self-conscious in front of the camera, not knowing what to do with their hands or where to look. But a two-year-old? They just are. They haven’t been weighed down by the world’s expectations. They know how to live in the moment, and when you let them take charge, everything else falls into place.

This session was proof of that. From playful moments to heartfelt hugs, the little one led the way, and the result was pure, joyful magic. Two-year-olds really are the best of us.

Here are a few of my favorite images from this beautiful evening at Harlinsdale Farms.

Senior Session at Eastern Flank Battlefield Park | Franklin, TN

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There’s something incredibly special about photographing the children of close friends—kids you’ve watched grow up over the years. It’s such an honor to be able to capture these big milestones in their lives. This session was particularly meaningful, as I’ve known this amazing senior for quite some time. Watching her prepare for the next chapter in life has been so exciting, and it was truly a joy to photograph her at this pivotal moment.

We chose Eastern Flank Battlefield Park in Franklin, TN for the backdrop, and it did not disappoint! The weather was perfect, and the golden light gave us the most beautiful setting. But I have to give a big shout-out to her mom, who stepped up as our very own wind machine, adding just the right amount of movement to those gorgeous shots.

I love how this session turned out. She absolutely nailed it, and I can’t wait to see what her future holds!

If you’re looking to book your senior session or family portraits, now’s the time! I have a limited number of spots left, so don’t wait—schedule today! You can book here or contact me directly to chat about your vision.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on my latest sessions and see more of my work!