There’s something extra special about photographing extended families — and the Long Family’s session was such a perfect reminder of that! This crew came to the Smoky Mountains for their first vacation all together, and I was honored to capture these memories for them.

We met near one of my favorite spots, complete with a rustic covered bridge and winding tree-lined roads that made the perfect backdrop. I arrived a little behind schedule thanks to the inevitable July 4th weekend traffic (it happens!), but thankfully we didn’t lose any light. The heat was no joke, and the gnats were definitely out in full force, but everyone powered through with smiles and great attitudes.

What stood out the most during this session was the energy and connection between the cousins. Watching them laugh, hold hands, and just enjoy being together made the session feel more like a celebration than a photo shoot. The grown-ups were just as fun and easygoing, making this large group feel like a breeze.

Sessions like these remind me why I love what I do. It’s not just about the photos — it’s about the joy, the moments between the poses, and documenting memories that will last a lifetime.

Thank you, Long Family, for trusting me to be part of such a meaningful trip. I hope these images bring you right back to the Smokies every time you look at them. 💛