There’s something incredibly special about photographing families in the comfort of their own home—especially when that family is full of joy, energy, and connection like the Hunleys. This lifestyle family session in Knoxville, TN was the perfect example of how beautiful real life can be.

From couch-jumping and tickle fights to trampoline tricks and backyard exploring, this session was a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful photos often come from simply letting families be themselves.

Now if there were three words to describe the Hunley family, it certainly would be warm, wild and wonderful. 🙂 And I like to think these photos exude that. This mid-day summer session took place in the Hunley family’s Knoxville home, and it couldn’t have been a better fit for their dynamic. I hadn’t met them prior to their session, but I immediately felt apart of the crew because of their hospitably and warmness. Photographing a large family can feel intimidating, but this session was anything but.

Hannah, the mom, is truly an absolute gem. I lowkey want to be like her when I grow up. 😉 She homeschools all five kids, and the love, patience, and excitement she pours into her family is evident in every interaction. Girlfriend clearly has her hands full, and yet she’s one of the most down to earth people Ive ever met. She welcomed me in, and again, her hospitality and warmness was so evident the moment I walked in their front door. When we planned this session together prior to it, Hannah referred to her family as a circus. I think she was trying to warn me, but honestly it only fired me up for this session. I always love when children have so much spirit. And their children certainly did in the best way possible! Not only that, these siblings had such a close bond. Again, upon my arrival, this was my first time meeting them but their kindness to each other, the way big sis helped little bro poor his cereal, the tickle attacks, and graciously taking turns jumping off the couch all were evidence of how tight-knit these guys were.

Their house was filled with massive windows, allowing warm, natural light to pour in and wrap every moment in softness. That light (chefs kiss!) paired perfectly with the family’s bright, joyful energy. Thankfully jumping off the couch and rearranging the furniture a bit wasn’t an issue because a little bit of that happened. 🙂

We ended our session with some homeschool work, sourdough bread making, munching on some cereal, and backyard hangs. Really, all of my personal favorite things! From cereal spills to (very) muddy toes, real life was captured. But it couldn’t have been cuter.

If you’re considering a lifestyle family session in Knoxville, this one is full of inspiration—and proof that chaos and calm can exist beautifully together.