The Impact of Weather-Appropriate Attire on Your Photo Session

Sarah Benson Park photography session with Crystal Freemon Photography

When it comes to a successful photo session, one of the key factors to consider is wearing weather-appropriate clothing. In Middle Tennessee, we’re accustomed to the ever-unpredictable weather patterns, which is why I always advise my clients to remain flexible and prepared for whatever nature may throw our way (within reason, of course – if it’s too cold and rainy, rescheduling is a perfectly reasonable option).

This week, we’ve experienced an unexpected twist in the weather – unseasonably warm days for Fall photo shoots in November. While it’s not what anyone anticipated, I much prefer it to uncomfortably cold weather, or rain. I want to highlight a fantastic example of flexibility from one of my recent sessions.

The mom had initially planned for her baby to wear a cozy sweater outfit with pants. However, with the sudden shift to warmer weather, she made a last-minute change, opting for attire more suitable for the conditions, ensuring her baby’s comfort.

Having a relaxed and comfortable family is essential to a successful photo session. What that comfort looks like can vary greatly, even within the same season. In early November, it might mean shedding layers in 80-degree weather, but the following week, hats and mittens might become our new best friends.

Capturing Genuine Moments: The Value of Full Portrait Sessions

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 beautiful families year after year

Fall Family portrait session with Crystal Freemon Photography

Since 2016, this wonderful family has graced my lens, bringing their laughter, love, and beautiful energy to my autumn photo sessions. It’s sessions like these that remind me why I fell in love with family photography in the first place.

From the days when these two were mere toddlers, their curiosity and wild spirit have embodied what I love about photographing children. Now, as they are not little kids anymore, I’m reminded of how quickly time passes.

Through every session, I’ve been privileged to document their journey, and I’ve cherished every moment of it. The trust my clients place in me is truly special, and I feel incredibly fortunate to watch each of your families grow.

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.

Morning Photo Session: Joyful Moments at Percy Warner Park

Sweet siblings at a morning photo session at Percy Warner park in Nashville


With its delightful steps, Percy Warner Park set the stage for a heartwarming family photo session with a cherished family I eagerly look forward to photographing each year. We had a wonderful time exploring the park and even made our way to the top of those charming steps. Opting for the morning sun instead of the traditional “magic hour” was a deliberate decision, allowing the children’s happiness and comfort to shine through.

Typically, I lean towards capturing photos during the enchanting “magic hour” in the evening. However, ensuring your children’s joy and comfort takes precedence in family photography. If a morning session is the best fit for your family, I am more than happy to accommodate. All that’s needed is a location with ample shade. Opting for an earlier morning timeframe ensures the most beautiful lighting for your photographs.


Are you in search of a skilled photographer within the Middle Tennessee region, covering Spring Hill, Franklin, and Columbia? My expertise lies in capturing beautiful family moments at every life stage, be it the arrival of a newborn or celebrating the accomplishments of seniors. For detailed information, visit my website or easily book a session through my convenient online calendar. Your support on Facebook and/or Instagram would mean the world to me – stay connected for more!

Family of Five Photos in Franklin TN

Family of 5 photo session in Franklin TN

I’m getting to that part in the annual portrait photography busy season where my neck is stiff from editing and I’ve run out of words. It inevitably happens every year. But I’m never lacking in images.

I loved hanging with this beautiful family. These sweet sisters were so much fun to photograph. The sunset and the giggles were my happy place.

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.

Family Pics at Bowie Nature Preserve

Family portrait session at Bowie Nature preserve in Fairvview TN

I love seeing families year after year at their annual photo sessions, and these sweet kids are some of my favorites. It was a gorgeous morning at Bowie Nature Preserve in Fairview, and it felt like the kickoff to Fall Portrait Season.

Most weekend spots are gone but I still have some open slots for my Fall Mini Sessions and Santa Minis. There are also some weekday fall sessions left. Don’t wait to book!

🍁 I will be shooting Fall Mini Sessions on October 29th. These are best for smaller families with older kids. If you have toddlers or a large family, I highly recommend a full session. The rain date for the mini-sessions is November 9. If interested, book your spot quickly as these will sell out. 

🎅 I am also doing Santa Minis with Nashville Santa on November 19. These will also sell out, so don’t wait to book.

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.

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.

Morning Photo Session at Bowie Nature Preserve

Family photo session at Bowie Nature Preserve

I usually photograph families at magic hour – the hour before sunset. But that time doesn’t always work for my littlest clients, especially in the summertime when the sun sets pretty late. While the best lighting is certainly desirable, the most important thing is for children to be happy and not overly tired. So in those cases, I’m happy to shoot a daytime session.

The one requirement is that the location needs to have plenty of shade because harsh mid-day light isn’t flattering for portraits. (Also, in July in Tennessee it’s unbearable.)

I had never taken pictures at Bowie Nature Preserve in Fairview before, but my husband and our puppy have been hiking there recently. It occurred to me that it would be good for daytime sessions because of all the wooded areas. I am so happy that this lovely family agreed to give it a try with me, because I really like this location. There were even a set of swings nearby for the end of the session. It turns out, that was the first time these siblings had really been in a swing before. (Big brother had tried before but hadn’t been that into it, but at our session he had a great time.) I loved that we captured this sweet little mini milestone in photographs.