Family Photo Session in Thompson’s Station

Golden hour, a lakeside path, and a sweet family with a toddler AND pup—this Thompson’s Station family photography session had everything I love about capturing authentic, joy-filled moments.

One thing was clear from the start: this toddler was determined to run, and their pup was equally determined to sniff everything along the way. Watching them both embrace the neighborhood park in their own way made for the most fun, candid moments—tiny legs moving as fast as they could while their golden happily joined them or took his time, stopping at every interesting scent. It was the perfect reminder that the best family sessions happen when everyone gets to just be themselves.

The magic of a family session isn’t just in the perfectly posed shots—it’s in the moments in between. The ones where a parent pauses to fix a tiny, untied shoe, or instinctively brushes back wispy hair before placing a gentle kiss on their toddler’s cheek. It’s in the quick hand squeezes, the whispered words of encouragement, and the little redirections when curiosity takes over. These are the fleeting, everyday interactions that don’t always make it into the frame on your wall, but I love to capture them and deliver them with photo sets all the same. They hold just as much meaning—the quiet proof of love, patience, and the sweet rhythm of parenthood.

Including pets in family shoots always brings a little extra joy and unpredictability, which I love. There’s something so real and heartwarming about a dog’s endless curiosity paired with a toddler’s unstoppable energy... and the parents who just have to laugh and go with the flow. Having a toddler and dog of my own, I understand how that love for your "first-born" pup only deepens when you see them bond with your baby. Watching this sweet golden retriever take that same transition from the "only child" to the beloved family dog pulled on my heartstrings—proof that their special connection remains just as strong, even as the family grows.

With the stunning natural backdrops that Thompson’s Station and Franklin, TN, offer, this session was an absolute dream. Between the lush greenery transitioning into fall colors, the soft evening light filtering through the trees, and the sheer happiness radiating from this family, I couldn’t have asked for a better evening of family photography in Middle Tennessee.

If you’re looking for a Franklin, TN, family photographer or a Thompson’s Station photographer to capture your family’s special moments, I’d love to help! Dogs are always invited.

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