When this sweet family booked their session, mom was excited for their first ever professional family photos with their four month old baby boy - and they brought their adorable dog along, too!


One of the first things we talked about was how to make the session work best for their baby. Instead of a golden-hour sunset session, we chose an earlier time of day to align with his schedule. Flexibility like this is so important—especially when little ones are involved! I always say: a happy baby in good light is way better than a fussy baby at sunset.


Golden Hour Photos with a Baby


I love to shoot at golden hour, (the last hour before sunset) - The light is deliciously golden and soft and flattering, it is a dream! Some ways you can keep your littles up past their bedtime would be to push naptime later for a couple of days leading up to your session, making sure they are well fed, and being sure to be extra engaged and playful with them during the session.


But, if you know your baby won't be able to handle those adjustments, it is okay to move your session earlier in the day.


Something to keep in mind if you need to move your session earlier is that light plays a significant part in how your photos look, so just know that the final results might look a little different than your photographer's usual work in terms of color and sunflares.



Family sits on a blanket for sequoya hills photos
Knoxville family pictures Sequoya Hills
Baby being held by dad
Family sits on a blanket on a spring day
dogwood family photos family sits under dogwood tree in knoxville
Baby looks up under dogwood tress while sitting on his parents' lap


A Personalized Experience


Another thing that helped us plan? Their personalized questionnaire. This is a really intentional piece of my pre-session experience that I believe is so important. I curate the posing and prompts around the answers you share with me!


For example, this mama shared that one of their favorite things to do together is go for walks at parks—it’s a simple, joyful part of their routine that makes them feel connected as a family.


That little detail inspired me to envision their session with walking shots highlighting the natural aspects of the park, playful picnic style moments, and cozy snuggles in a natural, relaxed setting. Sequoyah Hills Park was the perfect choice: beautiful trails, open spaces, and plenty of spots to soak in the sweetness of a family afternoon.


What I loved most about this session was how true it felt to their everyday life, but with an artistic flair and strategic outfit styling!


It’s why I always ask questions ahead of time: to help me understand what your family loves and to design a session that feels authentic to you. Whether it’s working around nap schedules, including your furry family member, or choosing a location that means something to you, my goal is to tell your story in a way that feels real and beautiful.


I’m so grateful to this family for trusting me to capture such a sweet season for them!


Family of three smiles together happily in Sequoya Hills
Detail shot of mom's hand on baby's foot


Ready to Book Your Family Photos?


Looking to plan your own family session? I’d love to help you choose the perfect time and place to tell your story. Reach out anytime to get started!