An early morning photo stroll down Gay Street before the first storm rolled in made for a moody experience. I was glad the street lamps were still on, contrasting with the darkening skies. Timing is everything, and while walking through the quiet streets, I aimed to capture the light from the lamps against the stormy clouds.
Buy prints of this photo and others of Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee here!
In the midst of nature’s breathtaking autumn display, family photo sessions become an opportunity to capture cherished moments against a backdrop of vibrant colors. The warmth of family bonds, combined with the season’s rich palette, creates timeless images that not only reflect the beauty of Fall, but also encapsulate the love laughter, and connection shared among family.
Early morning, when the leaves are beginning to change and there is a cool breeze and an overcast sky, make the ideal conditions for my favorite time to hike. When I saw these Junipers, I knew that these photos would be my favorite. Hall Bend Loop is a 5-mile trek located near TVA’s Tellico Dam that meanders along the lake for a good portion. At some points along the trail, the buzzing sound of traffic fades and you feel as f you are miles deep in the woods.
It was an absolutely gorgeous day to have a wedding overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains!
With 183 scenic acres, Lakeshore Park is Knoxville’s most visited park. The East Tennessee Hospital for the Insane, later renamed Lakeshore Mental Health Institute, operated for over 125 years and closed in 2013. The city worked with the conservancy to preserve the park and the building and now there are walking trails, sports fields, a playground, and beautiful monuments and pavilions. The rolling hillsides make for a perfect picnic area with a beautiful view of the Tennessee River.
Pictured below are the institute and the gorgeous Marble Hall that hosts parties, weddings, and other special events.
I love when I come across photos that I have forgotten about and never posted! This was taken near the end of the summer in 2022. This is on the Tennessee side of the infamous Dragon at the Calderwood Dam Overlook. Bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this roadway is a motorcyclist’s and speed racer’s dream with 318 curves in 11 miles! Personally my favorites part is stopping for dinner at the Tapoco Tavern near the end of the highway on the North Carolina side. They truly have the best burgers and grilled chicken sandwiches. The outdoor patio has such a warm and inviting atmosphere with a nice view of the river running by (cell phone photo below. Peep the moon!)
What a beautiful day for a family photo session in the Great Smoky Mountains! I found a new, beautifully manicured location, plush with roses, a fun bridge and a water fountain! I can’t wait to use this little place more often. These girls were the best models! I can’t get over that twirl in the tutu<3
Contact me for information and pricing for your next fun family photo session!
All rights to photos are included with each session
I am so fortunate to love in the Great Smoky Mountains! The national park just completed one of the most beautiful parkways that Tennessee has to offer. The views this drive offers is absolutely amazing! Usually driving in the park, traffic gets jammed because there is a bear in sight. On this road, traffic stops for the unbelievable mountain views! The entrance to this section of the parkway is only 20 minutes from my home, so this is such a treat. I cannot wait for a cloudy day!
I am always trying to find new editing styles and I came across this vintage-y one to try on a nature shot. What do ya think??
>>Don’t forget to like my Facebook Page
and follow my active Instagram<<
One of my favorite feelings is being on the TIP-TOP of a mountain. Specifically miles deep into the woods and up the ridges of these peaks. There is absolutely nothing like being on the tip-top crest, maybe 3 feet wide, and a view opposite of this.
Thankfully, I have a special spot close to home that gives me that “top of the world” feeling 🙂
Hidden behind the lush green, and deep down in the valley, is a view of Pigeon Forge to the left and Wears Valley Road travels all along the right.
Mary Davis Photography 