There’s something incredibly special about family photo sessions, especially when they take place during a weekend getaway in the Smoky Mountains. The Spann family, who chose to capture their memories while visiting the area, made for an unforgettable session. From the perfect location to the natural chemistry they shared, it was truly a joy to photograph this wonderful family.

The Spann family decided to take a break from their getaway to do a photo session, and after some thought, we chose Emert’s Cove Covered Bridge as the backdrop. This location holds a special place in my heart for many reasons—it offers such variety in one spot. The charming bridge, the gentle creek, and the majestic mountains all come together to create a stunning array of backgrounds. I knew it would be the perfect setting for their family photos, and I was right.

Right away, it was clear that this was an adorable family. The warm smiles and the easygoing vibe made my job effortless. Brandon and Collin are both outdoorsmen through and through. They were more than happy to explore the area and venture down to the creek, which added a fun, adventurous element to the session. I loved how they embraced the surroundings, turning what could have been a simple photo into a more dynamic experience. The creek provided the perfect backdrop for some candid shots, with Collin making the most of his time outdoors.

Anna Grace was the perfect model. She had such a natural grace about her, knowing exactly how to move for the camera. Her ability to strike just the right pose or create beautiful action shots was impressive. I found myself capturing so many moments of her laughing, twirling, and just enjoying the session. It’s not always easy to get that perfect balance of movement and stillness, but Anna Grace made it look effortless, bringing a certain energy to the photos.

As I was working through the session, something unexpected happened—a small stumble on my part! As I was shooting a group shot of the Spann family, I ventured a bit too confidently onto a rock to get a better angle. Little did I know, the leaves covering the ground weren’t hiding solid earth underneath, and I ended up taking a tumble!

I’ll admit, I wasn’t exactly graceful, but thankfully, no harm was done. No injuries to myself or my camera equipment, and I was able to shake it off with a laugh. A lesson learned for future fall sessions—when there are leaves covering the ground, it’s always best to be cautious!

Despite my little mishap, the session continued without a hitch. The Spann family’s warmth, kindness, and laughter more than made up for any unintentional comedy on my part. They were so understanding, and I couldn’t have asked for a sweeter group to work with.

As the session wrapped up, I felt so grateful to have been part of such a memorable experience. The photos we captured at Emert’s Cove Covered Bridge beautifully reflect the Spann family’s bond—strong, adventurous, and full of love. Whether they’re hiking through the Smokies or simply enjoying each other’s company, their connection is undeniable, and I’m honored to have documented it.

Thank you, Spann family, for allowing me to capture these special moments during your Smoky Mountain getaway. I hope these photos will serve as a reminder of your wonderful time together, the stunning scenery, and the laughs we shared—especially the one about my unintentional stumble!