Josh + Tanya :: Engaged, Knoxville Engagement Photographer

There’s something timeless about the way water moves — calm, steady, and full of life. That’s exactly how this engagement session felt as I had the joy of photographing a sweet couple at a beautiful little river just outside of Knoxville, Tennessee. The natural setting, with its soft flowing water, lush greenery, and warm golden light, created the perfect backdrop for capturing their love story.

When couples choose to have their engagement photos in Knoxville, I always encourage them to consider locations that reflect their personalities. For these two, the river was more than just a pretty spot — it was peaceful, romantic, and allowed them to simply be themselves. From playful laughter on the riverbank to quiet moments hand in hand in the water, every image reflected their joy, connection, and the anticipation of the life they are building together.

As a Knoxville engagement photographer, I’m always inspired by how love shows up in the little things. The way he looked at her with complete adoration. The way she laughed with ease in his arms. And the way they both lit up when they stopped for a quiet moment to pray together, grounding their relationship in something deeper than just the excitement of wedding planning.

Outdoor sessions like this remind me why the Smoky Mountains and East Tennessee are some of the most beautiful places for couples photography. The blend of natural beauty and authentic love stories creates images that feel timeless and true.

At the end of the day, these two didn’t just walk away with stunning engagement portraits — they walked away with memories of a sweet evening spent celebrating their relationship in a place that felt like home. Because after all, a couple who prays together, stays together.

Sunflower Portraits :: Knoxville Photographer

Photographing Lauren in the sunflowers was a dream! I mean, how can you not be happy in the middle of thousands of beautiful sunflowers??!! It’s so sad that they only last maybe 2 weeks in July, if we are lucky.

Little River on Tremont, Townsend

This spot on the Little River just outside of Townsend is so quiet and picturesque. It’s a great location if you’re wanting something a little different than the mountain views. It really feels like you’re in a magical rain forest!

Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Family Session

Ahhhh, Foothills Parkway, you are my favorite in the Smoky Mountains! Yeah, we got a little rain during our session, but we just waited it out in the car until it passed. When we arrived, though, this fantastic double rainbow was on display, and I quickly got everyone together and started snapping! We started at Townsend Overlook, then made our way to “The Wall” which makes you feel like you’re on top of the world! And we ended at one more lookout with a slightly different view. It was a beautiful day with this beautiful family who was visiting from Illinois.

If you’re visiting Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain area, scheduling a photo session is a MUST!

Honeysuckle Hills Wedding + Events :: Pigeon Forge, TN

Honeysuckle Hills (https://honeysucklehills.com/) in Pigeon Forge, just outside of Gatlinburg, TN. It’s really a slice of heaven!! They host elopements and small weddings as well as host events like family reunions, and all of her packages include a wedding coordinator. Regina is the owner, and she is a fun and wonderful woman who takes so much pride in what she has built (with good reason!), and has really thought out every detail to her property as well as what she offers to her couples. She has graciously opened up her property to my clients to be able to book their family sessions here for a fee.

If you’re looking for something unique and private to elevate your family photo session or to elope to, I highly recommend booking Honeysuckle Hills! Scroll down to see all the beauty, including the mountain views!