A Full-Circle Session in Cades Cove | Eliza’s Session
Nine Sessions. Three Golden Sessions in Cades Cove. One incredibly kind and beautiful soul
Over the past year, I’ve had the absolute honor of photographing Eliza more than anyone else. Session after session, season after season—she’s stood in front of my camera with a quiet confidence and an open heart that never cease to inspire me. What began as a senior portrait shoot quickly blossomed into a creative journey filled with laughter, growth, and some truly unforgettable moments.
From the very beginning, Eliza brought something special. There’s a gentleness to her spirit, a calm, grounded energy that makes you feel like everything’s going to be okay. She's graceful in the way she moves, thoughtful in the way she engages, and joyfully present in every frame. Each time we’ve worked together, I’ve been struck by how naturally she steps into herself—no performance, just presence.
Over the course of this past year, we’ve created so many beautiful memories. We started with her senior photos—capturing that exciting season of endings and beginnings—and then marked her graduation with a classic cap and gown session. Later, in the studio, we went for a simple and timeless look: a crisp white button-down paired with a bouquet of fresh flowers. It was effortlessly elegant, and honestly, one of my favorite studio moments to date. Clean, soft, and striking—just like her.
One of our most playful shoots took us back to Cades Cove for a western-themed session that was as fun as it was picturesque. The wild spirit of the landscape paired perfectly with Eliza’s natural ease, and we laughed our way through tall grass, golden light, and boots with personality. Those kinds of sessions remind me how photography can feel like storytelling and adventure all at once.
And then came this most recent session—a full-circle moment. Back again in the beauty of Cades Cove, only this time it felt different. The light was golden and soft, the kind that seems to know it’s saying goodbye to summer. The mountains stood quietly in the background like old friends, and Eliza, standing on the edge of a brand-new chapter, seemed to shine more brightly than ever.
There was something unspoken about that evening. Maybe it was the culmination of all our shared moments, or maybe it was the significance of this next season of her life—heading off to college, stepping boldly into independence. Whatever it was, it felt deeply meaningful. Like we were honoring not just where she’s going, but everything it took to get there.
Eliza is one of those rare people who leads with heart. She shows up fully, listens deeply, and lives with intention. Her work ethic, her quiet strength, her kindness—they’re not just admirable, they’re magnetic. I have no doubt that she’s going to leave a lasting impact wherever she goes, simply by being who she is.
Eliza, thank you. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. For trusting me to hold these memories with you. For showing up, every time, with grace, vulnerability, and joy. It’s been such a privilege to document this season of your life, and I’m so excited to see the beauty you’ll create in this next one.
Cheering you on with so much love as you begin your freshman year. The best is yet to come.
