Some sessions are more than just pretty pictures—they’re threads in a much bigger story, stitched together with memory, meaning, and love. This heirloom session for Jennifer and Scott was one of those stories.
On a beautiful November afternoon, we met in the Rose Garden at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a session that was truly full-circle. Jennifer wore a handcrafted heirloom dress lovingly sewn by her grandmother for her mother, Naomi, when Naomi was just five years old. The dress is a work of art—timeless, intricate, and so clearly cherished. Naomi had her own portraits made in that same dress decades ago, and those photos still hang in her parents’ home. Now, it was time for Jennifer to carry on the tradition.
In every image, you can feel the love and care that surrounds this family. Naomi even tracked down the very same florist who made her original rose and baby’s breath floral crown—and had her recreate it for Jennifer. That little crown was like a bridge through time, connecting mother and daughter in the most special way.
Of course, we couldn’t leave out Jennifer’s little brother, Scott. He brought so much personality and fun to the session. Both kids were barefoot, which felt so fitting—free, playful, and completely themselves. One of my favorite moments came at the very end, when the “official” photos were over, and they ran barefoot through the garden together. It was the kind of joy you can’t pose or plan—it just is.
I’ve known Naomi since college and had the honor of photographing her wedding in 2020. She is the absolute kindest person, and seeing her as a mother, carrying forward these traditions, makes documenting these moments even more meaningful.
This session was a reminder that portraits can be more than photos—they can be legacies.
Naomi,
Watching you mother your babies with such intention and love is an absolute joy. The care you put into honoring your family’s legacy and creating new memories for Jennifer and Scott is inspiring. Thank you for trusting me with this piece of your story. It means more than I can say.With so much love,
Savannah
Session Details
📍 Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens – Rose Garden
📅 Date: November 17, 2024
👧 Outfit: Heirloom dress handmade by Naomi’s mother, originally worn by Naomi at age 5
🌸 Details: Custom floral crown recreated by the original florist using roses and baby’s breath
👣 Notes: Both children were barefoot the entire session
📸 Favorite Moment: Jennifer and Scott running barefoot through the garden at the end of the session
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