Family walking towards the great smoky mountains during visit to Cades Cove
Family plays together during fun family photo session in Cades Cove Townsend TN
Family smiles and picks flowers during Smoky Mountains family photography session

Great Smoky Mountains Photographer

Relaxed and playful — intentional family photography


because remembering how this stage felt means the world




Family stands under clothesline at the holmstead studio for family photos in Karns
Parents give smooshie kisses to their toddlers
Family plays in Cades Cove photography session

Great Smoky Mountains Photographer

 

Hi, I'm Susannah!

 


Connection focused family photographer based in Maryville serving the surrounding Smoky Mountains area.


Maryville photographer smiles as she stands and smiles

Artful and emotion filled family photography

for every stage of life.



Whether you're laughing with your teens and soaking up undistracted time with them again under the golden glow of sunset, or chasing toddlers playfully through a grassy field, or soaking in the quiet wonder of your newborn baby in the comfort of your home - you'll look back on your gallery and remember how this season felt.



I'm a photographer, mother, and lifelong romantic (thank you, Anne of Green Gables). I love showing up to your session feeling like we're already friends from the chatting we've done beforehand. Getting to know you and your story is seriously one of the best parts of my job.


I'm hands-on before your session, help you prepare with access to my curated Client Closet, styling guidance, and location recommendations. And when you need moral support or reassurance that you made the right outfit choice? I am here for that too!




 


The way your newborn curls into you. The sparkle in your toddler’s eyes. The precious little melt as they snuggle against you during bedtime stories.


You’re not just looking for photos; you’re looking for a way to remember what these days felt like.


Your session will be relaxed, playful, and centered on connection. No stiff poses here, your gallery will be filled with real moments and genuine emotion.


 

Mom embraces her little girls while sitting in Oakes Farm tulip field
Family plays together on a blanket during fun family photos

How it works

 

 

1

Book the Session

 

Book here to choose a date from my calendar or send me a message if you want to chat before booking.

2

I'll help you get prepared!

I am here for you every step of the way, helping you choose the perfect location and outfits for the whole family. Check out my Client Closet that you can borrow from for your session!

3

Enjoy the Experience

Come ready to play and snuggle with your kiddos and your hubby, I'll guide you the whole time!

 

4

Receive your Images

 

Within a couple of weeks, you'll receive a beautiful gallery of high-resolution images to download, share, and order prints.

Design element
knoxville photographer with personal experience
family photographer in knoxville tn with heartfelt and playful approach
family photographer knoxville with personal experience

 

Between snack time, naps, and the never-ending laundry pile, planning outfits can feel impossible. That’s why I offer easy, personalized styling help and a closet full of flattering, photo-ready dresses just for moms.


 

Family on great smoky mountains vacation laughs together

 

 

• Intentional planning assistance •

•Personalized styling assistance •

• Prompt and thorough communication •

• Access to my growing client closet

 

 

FAQs

What should we wear for our family session?


I love warm tones like caramel, browns, mustard yellow, jewel tones, and neutrals that complement the natural outdoor setting. You'll also have access to my carefully curated client closet (for mom and the girls) if you want to add a dramatic flair to your session, and personalized styling assistance with every session to simplify the whole process and ensure a cohesive and coordinated look.



Do we have to use your client closet?


Not at all - I love having a client closet to offer to moms who want to add a poetic and creative flair to their photos, but I totally get that some women want to wear something that feels more like you!


I help with styling in either case to make sure that the outfits chosen all flow together well, but I want you to feel beautiful and comfortable in whatever you choose.


Think of the client closet as a resource, not a requirement—it's here to serve you, not the other way around!


What is the client closet, and how does it work?


My client closet is a curated collection of beautiful, high-quality dresses for moms that photograph beautifully and complement my signature style. You'll have access to flattering options in tones that create a cohesive look for your session.


Once you book, I’ll help you choose the perfect dress and help coordinate outfits for the rest of the family to keep the whole process seamless and convenient.


FAQ

When is the best time to schedule our session?


I shoot during golden hour, just before sunset, for that beautiful, soft glow that makes your photos feel warm and timeless.


I recommend booking your session as early as possible so that you have plenty of time to plan for your session, buy any extra pieces for your outfits, and nothing feels rushed or thrown together.

How long does a family session last?


Family sessions typically last 45-60 minutes, allowing plenty of time for playful moments, sweet connections, and a relaxed experience.


I never want to put any family in a box - Especially with young children, sometimes sessions are a little shorter (or maybe a little longer if things are going great!) Basically, it is flexible so that we have just the right amount of time to get beautiful photos, while keeping everyone happy and having fun!





What's the best way to display out photos at home?


You'll have direct access through your gallery to the professional print lab that I work with to easily purchase gorgeous wall art, albums, and other professional print products to help you turn your images into treasured home decor.


If you want me to do the work for you, I also offer that in the store and I'd love to create an heirloom album from your session for you.



FAQs

What if the weather is bad on our session day?


If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule to the next available date that works for both of us. I always keep an eye on the forecast and will be in touch if we need to adjust plans.




What locations do you recommend for our session?


I have a list of beautiful  pre-scouted outdoor locations to help you choose the perfect local spot - From mountain views, adventure sessions, to parks, or quiet country lanes - Based on your questionnaire and family dynamics, I'll help you select the perfect spot for your family's session while you're on vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains.




How do we prepare our kids for the session?


Keep things light and fun—let them know we're going to play, explore, and have a great time! I’ll guide the session with prompts and games to keep them engaged and happy.



Want the ultimate guide to Cades Cove family photos?

Check it out on my blog!

On vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains and looking to take family photos in the mountains, or more specifically in Cades Cove? Cades Cove can be a little tricky, so I wrote a guide just for you to give you all the local tips and tricks!

Check it out!