This lifestyle family session was such a sweet reminder of just how much I truly love what I get to do.

As an East Tennessee lifestyle family photographer, I get to meet so many wonderful families. But there’s something especially meaningful when a family invites me back to photograph them again and again. It’s one of the greatest compliments I can receive because it means they trust me with their memories, their family, and the way I see and capture them.

So when the Rank family reached out again, I was absolutely thrilled! I’ve had the privilege of photographing Sarah, Caleb, and their sweet family several times over the years. Sarah and I actually went to high school together in Ohio, so our roots run deep. They now vacation in Tennessee every couple of years, and I’m always excited when they reach out for updated family photos while they’re here.

Before their session, we hopped on a design call to talk through what they wanted their photos to feel like. Sarah envisioned a mix of candid family moments, beautiful East Tennessee scenery, sweet photos of their newest little guy, who was about 6 months old at the time, and a few classic family portraits. Sarah trusted me with the photos and gave me free rein to lead the session, which I appreciated so much. And I’m happy to report, they loved their images! (That’s my kind of feedback!)

We met at Seven Islands State Birding Park in Kodak, Tennessee, which offers gorgeous rolling hills and mountain views. If you’re in the area, it’s a bit of a drive but totally worth it! Now I’ll be honest, this session did come with a few hiccups. The specific spot I wanted to take everyone to was a bit of a hike. But since it had been a few years since I had photographed here, my memory left out that one important part, and I told them it wasn’t that bad! Oops! Thankfully, they were such good sports, and their stroller helped tremendously.

Once we arrived, everything came together beautifully. The kids ran, played, snuggled, and soaked up every bit of their parents’ attention. We captured sweet nursing moments, family cuddles, and those classic smiling-at-the-camera portraits. By the end, I was hot, sweaty, and completely exhausted, but my heart was so full. Sarah and I talked and gabbed with each other for quite a bit while Caleb loaded up the kids in the car and sat in the AC. I’m incredibly grateful not only that the Ranks continue to trust me with their memories, but also for our friendship. Even though Sarah is younger than me, I look up to her in many ways.

If you’re looking for an East Tennessee lifestyle family photographer to document your family just as you are, I’d love to work with you! Head over to my inquire page and let’s start planning your dream session.