After nearly 40 years as a teacher, I have a few tricks! I usually begin by redirecting and making the session feel fun. The most helpful thing parents can do is relax and let me take the lead. Sometimes we slow down or let other family members try a playful pose. Once a hesitant child sees everyone else having fun, they often want to join in.

And if we capture a grumpy expression or two, that’s okay. Those photographs often become favorite memories because they show your child exactly as they were during that season of life.

Your clothing should reflect your family and the feeling you want for your portraits. You might choose something dressy and traditional or relaxed and casual. The location can also help guide your choices.

I recommend coordinating rather than matching exactly. Choose complementary colors, and if one person wears a pattern, pull colors from that pattern for everyone else. Soft neutrals such as light gray and khaki work beautifully as neutrals. I’ll also help you make clothing choices so everyone feels comfortable and coordinated.

Absolutely. I have several favorite locations and will help you choose one that fits your family. We might use a beautiful private farm during golden hour, explore the character of downtown Knoxville or meet at places such as the UT Gardens, Knoxville Botanical Garden or another local park. We’ll choose a setting that supports the look and feeling you want.

That is completely normal, especially during the first few minutes. My relaxed, lighthearted approach helps even the most camera-shy person loosen up and enjoy the experience. I’ll guide you throughout the session, so you never have to wonder what to do.

I recommend booking your family session at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Fall dates and weekends fill especially quickly, so reach out several months ahead if you need a specific date or want portraits ready for holiday gifts and cards. If your timeline is shorter, please ask—I may still have availability.

A $200 non-refundable session fee is required to reserve your date on my calendar. This fee covers the planning and photography session itself. Finished artwork and the corresponding digital images are selected and purchased separately after your session.

If illness or weather requires us to reschedule, your session fee will transfer to the new date we choose together.

I don’t place a strict time limit on family sessions. Some sessions may be finished in an hour or less, while sessions involving several locations or a family that is having a wonderful time may last closer to two hours.

With young children, we begin at our most important location while everyone is fresh. If someone needs time to play, rest or have a snack, we take a break. You should never feel rushed.

Yes! Grandparents, extended family members and pets are welcome. Your session includes up to three immediate-family groupings—for example, one nuclear family and two sets of grandparents. Larger extended-family sessions may require an additional fee. We’ll discuss everyone you would like included during your consultation.

Weather and illness are sometimes unavoidable. If rain makes an outdoor session impractical or someone becomes sick, we’ll work together to choose another date. I want everyone to feel well and comfortable, and I want the conditions to support beautiful portraits.

After your session, we’ll meet either in person or by Zoom—whichever you prefer—to view your photographs. Together, we’ll narrow the collection to approximately 30–35 favorite images and decide how you would most enjoy displaying them.

I offer framed portraits, floating and framed metal prints, canvas artwork and custom albums. I’ll guide you through the choices so the process feels manageable and enjoyable.

You’ll receive the finished artwork you select, along with the corresponding digital images. This allows you to enjoy your favorite portraits in your home and share them digitally with the people you love.