When heat settles in, many of popular locations by the rivers will be taken over by swimmers as early as 10 am. If you like this spot by mountain river in Greenbrier, you may need to be there as early as 8 am in the morning, but it's worth it!
Another great early morning location is Gatlinburg overlook. Spectacular views! Although mountains look better on the overcast days

Considering eloping? Here’s why tying the knot in a charming chapel and then capturing memories in a national park is a fantastic idea for you. 
​Imagine exchanging vows in a peaceful, intimate chapel. It’s just the two of you, sharing a moment of pure connection without the distractions and stress of a big wedding. It’s serene, meaningful, and deeply personal. After your ceremony, head to a Great Smoky Mountains National Park for your photos.
Think of the stunning backdrops—majestic mountains, roaring mountain rivers, and lush forests. These natural settings will elevate your wedding photos, making them breathtaking and unique. 
Combining the intimacy of a chapel with the awe-inspiring beauty of a national park creates a perfect blend of tradition and adventure. It’s a wonderful way to start your life together, with unforgettable memories and incredible photos to cherish forever.

Introducing play into the photoshoot guarantees that everyone will have the best time! 
Take a look at a few photos from recent family photo session. The weather was great, and we even got  to splash in the mountain river!

Elopement style session for just two of you is a wonderful idea! You get an adventure and a lot of photos in your wedding dress
You can get married back home and just bring your dress for more photos, or you can get married here in the Smokies. Remember, that if you like to get married (to have your ceremony) at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you have to file for a special wedding permit with the Park, which cant take at least 2 months to proceed
If you are just brining the dress, no additional permits are required, as I am a licensed photographer for Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Most of my clients travel to the Smokies and often not sure what location would work best for their family. Here's a list of my favorite family session locations with the best time to take photos at
On overcast days, any time of the day will work, but on sunny days there are better times for each location
I hope you find the location you like!

Foothills Parkway offers many beautiful locations that are not only spacious enough for larger families, but also safe to take photos at with smaller children.
​Best time photos here is closer to sunset on the sunny days. 

With a cute bridge and a small rock beach, this location is great with small children - we can either keep them away from the water, or let them play near river for additional fun shots! 
Gatlinburg trail is a pet friendly trail. If you have a dog that you'd like to bring to the session, make sure to mention that and we can schedule an early session while the trail is mostly empty!
For families without pets, best time to shoot is either early in the morning, or 4-6 pm in the summer time and may vary throughout the year 

Views of Gatlinburg Overlook show best with overcast or moody weather. Although, on the sunny days i would recommend either sunrise or sunset

Mountain river really shows off in the sun, with the best time between 8 am to 11 am, depending on the time of the year. Evening sessions are also available, with best time between 4-6 in the summer

There are so many different spot to take photos at the Cades Cove! So there is no best time particularly. For the best light, I prefer to either start at the sunrise, or come closer to the sunset. Cades Cove is a magical place, and attracts a lot of tourist. Being first or last can help beating the crowds