Capturing Generations: In Barfield Crescent Park

This past weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing one of the most beautiful families I’ve ever worked with in Barfield Crescent Park in Murfreesboro, TN. They were a big, loving group that included two parents, two grandparents, seven children (two of whom are married), three grandchildren, and their adorable little dog. To top it all off, the family was dressed in a stunning color palette of oranges, navy blue, and cream that truly popped against the green backdrop.

The Family's Vision

From the first consultation, I knew this session would be special. The family wanted to capture not only their connection as a multi-generational unit but also individual personalities within the group. They wanted formal posed shots showcasing their stylish coordinated outfits. Their color scheme of oranges, navy blues, and creams was perfect for the autumn season, providing a beautiful contrast with the vibrant foliage and adding a warm, inviting tone to the photos.

Location, Location, Location

We chose the picturesque park, Barfield Crescent in Murfreesboro with sprawling fields, tall trees,—an ideal setting for the session. The golden hour light filtering through the leaves gave the whole scene a magical glow, and the weather could not have been more perfect for an outdoor shoot.


Outfit Coordination: A Subtle Masterpiece

The family’s wardrobe coordination was spot on! Each person wore a different shade of orange, ranging from soft peach to deep burnt orange, which added depth to the group shots without looking too "matchy." The navy blue elements—seen in sweaters, and dresses, provided a beautiful contrast to the oranges and kept the overall look sophisticated. Cream-colored accents softened the palette, making everything come together in a perfectly balanced, harmonious way.

Capturing the Generations

Everyone gathered together with the grandparents seated at the center, representing the heart of the family. The parents stood behind them, flanked by their children, grandchildren, and even the dog sitting sweetly on Grandma's lap.

Next, we moved on to smaller groups. We took shots of each individual family unit, including the married children with their spouses and kids. One of my favorite moments was capturing the three generations together: grandparents, parents, and grandchildren, all beaming with joy.

For the grandchildren, we got playful! The girls did a few spins and posed in their favorite pose. The spontaneity of these shots brought so much life and laughter into the gallery, providing a perfect balance to the more posed, formal shots.

Posed and Candid Moments

After the group shots, we made sure to focus on individual and smaller family portraits. The grandparents posed together, with their sweet little dog. The parents had a few romantic shots of their own, walking hand in hand.

I made sure to capture each couple in their own unique way—whether it was a sweet embrace, a playful glance, or simply holding hands as they walked through the park.

A Timeless Collection

At the end of the session, we had a beautiful collection of images that truly reflected the family’s love for one another, their individual personalities, and their stylish, coordinated outfits. From the grandparents’ wisdom-filled smiles to the grandchildren’s playful innocence, each photo told a story of connection and joy.

This session reminded me of the beauty of family—how each member brings something unique to the table, but together, they create something truly special. It’s these moments that make family photography so rewarding, knowing that these images will be cherished for generations to come.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a family portrait session, take a cue from this wonderful family. Thoughtfully coordinated outfits, a beautiful location, and a willingness to embrace both posed and candid moments can lead to an unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to include the family dog—they’re part of the family too, after all!


Capturing generations is a privilege, and I hope this family’s photos serve as a lasting reminder of their love, joy, and unity.