Cozy, Scenic, and Full of Heart:
East Tennessee Engagement Photos 🐾💛📸
– May 23, 2025
There’s something incredibly special about getting to photograph the people you love — and when it happens in one of the most beautiful places in East Tennessee, it’s pure magic. I recently had the joy of spending a cozy afternoon with my little cousin, Austin, and his gorgeous fiancée, Elizabeth, and their sweet pup, Lady, for a casual shoot at Chapel in the Hollow. Even though they already had an official engagement session scheduled, we couldn’t pass up the chance to capture some East Tennessee engagement photos while they were in town!
This mini session turned out to be full of laughter, golden light, woodsy backdrops, and one very photogenic dog. 🐶📸
These East Tennessee engagement photos quickly became some of my favorites. Between their natural chemistry, the gorgeous light, and the peaceful surroundings of the Smoky Mountains, everything just clicked. Add in their adorable pup, Lady, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect photo adventure. 🐶🌿
A Forest Walk Through Chapel in the Hollow 🌲📍
We started the afternoon at Chapel in the Hollow, one of the most romantic and intimate venues in the Smokies — and not just because it’s close to my heart. It’s a dream location for couples who want East Tennessee engagement photos that feel authentic, relaxed, and connected to nature.
The highland area gave us that soft forest light we all love, and it made the perfect setting for Elizabeth’s outfit: a breezy, flowy dress in soft neutrals and yellow tones that fluttered beautifully in the breeze. Her hair was curled to perfection, and she looked radiant from every angle. ✨
Austin rocked a classic look with khakis and a crisp white shirt, letting their sweet connection — and that early spring glow — shine through in every frame. These two were so easy together, constantly laughing and slipping into their own little world, which is exactly what makes for the best kind of engagement shoot.
From Woodsy Trails to Wide-Open Views 🏞️💫
Once we wrapped up our time at the chapel, we made our way to the Foothills Parkway — one of the most iconic photo spots in East Tennessee for a reason. With breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s the perfect way to add a little drama and grandeur to an otherwise cozy session.
The contrast of the intimate forest setting with the wide-open mountain vistas gave us the best of both worlds. These East Tennessee engagement photos capture the spirit of the couple, the season, and the beautiful region they love so much.
Ending the Day at The Abbey in Townsend 🍽️🍻
Of course, no perfect afternoon is complete without a delicious meal, so we wrapped up with dinner and drinks at The Abbey in Townsend — one of our favorite local gems. If you’re planning your own photo adventure or wedding in the Smokies, definitely put this place on your list. Great food, relaxed atmosphere, and just minutes from the Foothills Parkway and Chapel in the Hollow? Yes, please.
Planning Your Own East Tennessee Engagement Photos?
If you’re newly engaged and dreaming of a photo session that feels natural, intimate, and a little adventurous, East Tennessee offers the perfect setting. Between the lush forests, quiet trails, and epic mountain views, it’s no wonder so many couples are choosing to take their engagement photos in the Smokies.
Whether you want to bring your pup, explore the woods, or add a few dramatic landscapes into your gallery, venues like Chapel in the Hollow and locations like the Foothills Parkway offer endless possibilities.
Let this be your sign to grab your partner (and maybe your dog), throw on something you love, and document your love story surrounded by the magic of the mountains.
Location + Details:
📍 Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
📍 Scenic Views: Foothills Parkway
📸 Photography: Star Noir Studio
🍽️ Dinner Spot: The Abbey, Townsend TN
🐾 Special Guest: Lady the Dog
To Austin and Elizabeth — your love is effortless and full of joy, and I can’t wait to see what your wedding day brings. 💍✨