If you’ve ever tried to wrangle grandparents, siblings, in-laws, and all the kids into one photo—you know it’s no small task. But when you finally do get everyone together in one place (hello, Smoky Mountain vacation!), there’s nothing more meaningful than booking a professional extended family photo session in the Great Smoky Mountains to capture it all.
Recently, I had the joy of photographing a multi-generational family in the heart of the Smokies, and it was everything these sessions are meant to be—joyful, chaotic, full of belly laughs, and packed with memories they’ll treasure forever.
The Location: Smoky Mountain Views & Family-Friendly Vibes
We met at one of my favorite photo spots near Gatlinburg—easily accessible for grandparents and toddlers alike, with a panoramic view of the Smoky Mountains that makes every photo feel like a postcard.
This family was in town for a summer vacation and wanted to document their rare time all together. From grandparents down to the newest baby cousin, everyone showed up looking great (even the toddlers held it together for longer than expected!).
The light was soft and golden, the mountain layers in the background were doing their thing, and we spent the evening capturing every combination possible:
👵 Grandparents with grandkids
👩👧 Siblings with their own families
👨👨👧👦 All the cousins together
👨👩👧👦 Full family shots
❤️ Sweet couple portraits for each generation
Why You Should Book an Extended Family Session During Your Smoky Mountain Vacation
Let’s be real—getting everyone together doesn’t happen often. A trip to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville is the perfect time to slow down and capture this season of life. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, taking your annual family trip, or just soaking up time in the mountains, a professional family session is the souvenir you’ll actually cherish forever.
Here’s why the Smokies are ideal for your next extended family photoshoot:
Scenic mountain backdrops without a long hike (great for all ages!)
Gorgeous golden hour light for that warm, glowing feel
Close to major cabin rentals in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Wears Valley
Local photographers (like me!) who know how to work fast with big groups and keep things fun
Tips for Planning a Smooth Family Photo Session in the Smokies
📍 Choose a location that’s easy for all ages to access—flat ground and bathrooms nearby are a win.
🕐 Opt for golden hour—about an hour before sunset—for the dreamiest light.
🎨 Coordinate outfits in soft, earthy tones (think dusty blues, warm neutrals, olive greens) to complement the mountains.
🎉 Bring snacks, water, and patience—especially for the littles!
And don’t stress if the kids are a little wild. Candid moments usually end up being everyone’s favorite.
Let’s Make Family Memories in the Mountains
As a Smoky Mountain family photographer, these extended sessions are some of my absolute favorites. There’s just something about seeing generations come together—telling stories, laughing at inside jokes, passing babies around—that makes these sessions feel like so much more than photos. They’re legacy moments.
If you’re planning an extended family vacation in the Smokies, let’s capture your crew in all its glory—chaos, love, and everything in between.
📍 Serving Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Wears Valley & surrounding areas
📸 Specializing in extended family photography in the Great Smoky Mountains
📅 Now booking fall and holiday family sessions—spots fill quickly!
Click here to inquire!
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