There’s something magical about the Foothills Parkway.
This winding scenic drive offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Great Smoky Mountains, making it the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable engagement session.

As a Pigeon Forge photographer, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the Parkway’s overlooks and hidden pull-offs.
Every turn offers a new perspective - rolling mountains fading into the distance, layers of mist at sunrise, or golden light spilling across the ridges at sunset.
It’s a location that truly captures the romance and beauty of the Smokies.

Early mornings are the most peaceful time in the Smokies - especially if you’re heading to a popular swimming spot for a photo-session.

​When the forecast says 90 degrees, you can bet that by 10 a.m., almost any river will be filled with swimmers.

And honestly, I can’t blame them!

I love cooling off at swimming holes all over the Smokies myself. ​There’s nothing quite like the refreshing chill of a cold mountain river on a hot summer day!

Jessica and Tyler chose one of the most spectacular rivers in the Great Smoky Mountains for their anniversary session -Greenbrier river.
​To keep the setting quiet and serene for their Greenbrier couple photos, we planned an early morning start.

It worked perfectly!

​We had the river almost entirely to ourselves, with only one swimmer in sight—and they were tucked behind the rocks out of view. I’d call that a win for the Greenbrier beach swimming hole!

We began at one of the Parkway’s iconic overlooks, where the rolling ridges of the Smoky Mountains stretched endlessly in every direction.

The soft breeze carried the scent of mountain air, and the clouds floated gently over the peaks, adding depth and drama to the Foothills Parkway pictures.
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Every time Sydney and Charles looked at each other, you could see the love and joy radiating between them - it made capturing their couple pictures at the Foothills Parkway an absolute joy.

As a photographer, one of the things I love most about the Foothills Parkway is the variety it offers.
We moved between wide-open overlooks for sweeping landscapes and more intimate spots along the road where the trees framed them in glowing light.

​Whether it’s a grand wedding celebration or an intimate wedding on the Foothills Parkway, the scenery adapts beautifully to the moment.

Here are some of my favorite Cades Cove locations for maternity sessions—and why each one is so special:

• Historical Mill – The rustic texture of the old mill and its surrounding wooden structures add a timeless, storybook feel to Cades Cove maternity photos. 
• Old Churches – These preserved churches offer simple yet striking backdrops, with white wooden walls and mountain views beyond. 
• Meadows – Wide open spaces filled with tall grasses and seasonal wildflowers give a dreamy, romantic atmosphere to your photos, especially during golden hour.
• Mountain Streams – Cool, clear water winding through the Cove creates a refreshing, peaceful setting. 
• Scenic Views – The mountain ridges surrounding Cades Cove make for breathtaking backdrops, especially when framed by the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.
• Barns – Rustic wooden barns offer texture, depth, and a touch of Smoky Mountain history to your maternity portraits.
• Old Cabins – These preserved pioneer cabins feel like stepping back in time, adding a unique historic charm to your session.

Last October, Jaylinn traveled to Gatlinburg with one special goal - to have her senior photos taken in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, at the old Daisy Town, or Elkmont.

On the way to our location, we got separated and it took us more than two hours to finally reconnect. But once we found each other, everything fell into place, and the session turned out beautifully.

Elkmont was the perfect backdrop for her senior pictures.
In October, the Smoky Mountains transform into a painter’s dream - rolling hills draped in shades of gold, crimson, and amber. The crisp air, the gentle rustle of leaves underfoot, and the way the sunlight filters through the trees all combine to create pure magic.

As a Gatlinburg photographer, fall is one of my favorite times to work in the Smokies. Every location feels alive with color, and every turn in the road reveals another breathtaking view.

Elkmont, with its historic charm and variety of scenic spots, offers endless opportunities for senior portraits that are warm, vibrant, and full of life.
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Whether it’s senior photos, family portraits, or just capturing a special moment in time, autumn in the Smoky Mountains gives you a backdrop you’ll never forget.