Some sessions are about picture-perfect poses. Others? They’re about the in-between moments—the ones that sneak up on you and stick around long after the camera’s put away.


Corinne and Paolo brought their sweet girl Sophia, 16 months old and full of toddler determination. And let me tell you—she made me earn that smile (and honestly, I kind of love when that happens). She kept a solid grip on her parents and was not about to trust the strange lady with a camera.


We didn’t need a fancy setup or perfect posing—just some sticks, a still pond, and a little explorer who wasn’t about to let her parents out of reach. Sophia stayed close, especially with Dad nearby while she investigated every stick within reach. From clinging to Mom’s hand to crouching near the water’s edge, it was the quiet, genuine moments that told the story of this sweet family.


This session wasn’t about getting every shot perfectly posed—it was about connection. And when Sophia finally let her guard down and gave me that hard-earned grin? That was the moment I knew we got it.

A happy family shares a joyful moment together while standing in a peaceful wooded forest setting.
An adult in a green shirt carefully supports a small toddler in a white dress exploring tall grasses outdoors.
A parent wearing a navy dress sits on a blanket outdoors while holding a baby in a white outfit against a lake backdrop.
A baby in a white dress stands outdoors while being supported by someone wearing green.
A heartwarming outdoor portrait of a caregiver in a navy dress kneeling beside a baby wearing a white lace dress.
Young family shares tender moment together on wooded trail with towering trees in background.
A tender moment between parent and young child outdoors as they embrace while sitting on a blanket.
A tender moment between parent and child outdoors in a wooded area, with the little one wearing a white dress.
A family of three shares a tender moment together on a wooded forest path.

Battle of the Backyard Legends


Just when Sophia was starting to warm up to me, she found someone even better—my son, Piersen. The two of them bonded over their shared love of… sticks. (Clearly the VIP item of the day.) Before I knew it, they were fully engaged in what can only be described as the most adorable toddler vs. teen stick duel ever.


No one was harmed. Many sticks were waved. And I’m pretty sure Sophia won.

A small child in a white dress takes tentative steps on patchy grass while reaching for someone's outstretched hand.
Series of photos showing small child in white dress learning to walk with parental support on grassy ground.
A person in white dress stands in grass while holding a stick with someone outside the frame.
A parent in a dark t-shirt interacts with their small child being held in a forested outdoor setting.
A small toddler in a white lace dress holds a stick while standing outside in grass near a rustic structure.
Toddler in white dress holds stick while standing on patchy grass field with another person.
A small child in a white dress bends down to touch the dry ground while an adult's hand points nearby.
A photographer in a light sweater smiles while holding a camera against a rustic wooden wall.

Hey there! I'm Krystie, a passionate and dedicated photographer based in Smithfield, North Carolina. With a knack for capturing life's most precious moments, I specialize in family, children, pet, maternity, and portrait photography. My goal is to create a comfortable and enjoyable experience for my clients, resulting in stunning, authentic photos you'll cherish forever.


I take pride in my patience and ability to make everyone feel comfortable, from our first meeting until long after the session ends. Whether I'm entertaining a lively one-year-old or capturing precious moments with your family, I approach every session with a calm and friendly demeanor.


Communication is key to a successful photo shoot, and I make sure my clients know what to expect every step of the way. My quick turnaround times and attention to detail ensure you receive beautiful, high-quality images promptly. I love seeing the joy and happiness on my clients' faces when they see their photos for the first time.


When I'm not behind the camera, I enjoy exploring new places with my family. This sense of adventure and love for life's little moments inspires my photography, allowing me to see the beauty in every situation.


Get to know  more about me  or  send me an inquiry. Let's create some amazing memories together

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