The Smoky Mountains are always a special place to visit, but they seem to hold a little extra magic during the holiday season. The Rambo and Manning families, who were in the area for Thanksgiving, decided to make their time here even more memorable by scheduling a family photo session the morning after Thanksgiving. While the chilly weather and overcast skies might have made some families hesitant, it didn’t stop this wonderful group from making the most of it. In fact, they did an incredible job braving the cold, and we ended up with some truly beautiful photos.

The session was a special Christmas gift from Michelle to her mother, Phila. What a thoughtful and heartfelt present, capturing memories that would last a lifetime. It’s clear how much family means to Michelle, and it was such an honor to be part of this thoughtful gesture.

We met up early in the morning, and while the air was crisp and the sky was overcast, the spirits of the Rambo and Manning families were high. The beautiful backdrop of the Smoky Mountains’ serene creek added a touch of calm to the otherwise brisk day. Despite the cold, the families were full of warmth—both in their smiles and their patience. They did such a great job, from the young kids to the adults, as we worked through the session.

After our time by the creek, it was clear we needed to warm up. Fortunately, the Apple Barn and Cider Mill in Sevierville was just across the street, and it turned out to be the perfect spot to explore. Not only did it give us a much-needed break from the cold, but it also provided a cozy, festive atmosphere for more photos. The barn’s rustic charm, along with the warmth of the cider mill, created a beautiful setting for more family shots. The kids had a great time, and the family’s easy-going nature made for some truly adorable photos as we wandered through the store and enjoyed the atmosphere.

The time spent at the Apple Barn brought out some wonderful candid moments. There’s something so genuine about families relaxing together in a warm, inviting space, and I was able to capture so many sweet interactions between the Rambo and Manning families—laughter, love, and a sense of togetherness that’s always special during the holidays.

By the end of the session, despite the chilly morning and the initial nerves of taking family photos, everyone seemed to feel at ease. It was clear this was a family who cherished their time together, and I was honored to be there to document it. The photos we captured that day will not only serve as a gift for Phila this Christmas but also as a reminder of the love and joy they share year after year.

A huge thank you to the Rambo and Manning families for such a wonderful session! You made it easy to capture beautiful moments in the Smokies, even on a chilly Thanksgiving weekend. I hope these photos bring you joy for many years to come, and that your time in the Smokies was filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Happy holidays!