When the Gaylord family reached out to plan a photo session during their Smoky Mountain vacation, I knew it was going to be something special. With 25 family members traveling from near and far to come together, this session was all about celebrating connection, togetherness, and the kind of love that spans generations.

We met on a peaceful riverside spot surrounded by the lush green beauty of the Smokies—an absolutely perfect setting for capturing big family moments. With the sky teasing us with rain all day, we worked quickly but never felt rushed. Everyone was so cooperative, relaxed, and full of genuine joy. It made my job easy (and so much fun)!

We wrapped things up just in time—literally minutes before a shower rolled in—but not before one of my favorite moments of the day: the kids playing in the river. These candid shots of little feet in the water, giggles echoing off the rocks, and siblings exploring together? That’s the magic right there. Those are the moments that go beyond posed portraits and turn into real memories.

A big thank you to April for organizing such a beautiful session and trusting me to capture it all. Extended family sessions can be a challenge to coordinate, but this one felt effortless, thanks to her care and planning.

Here’s to the Gaylord family—may the memories made on this trip and in these mountains stay with you always.