Sometimes a perfect combination of setting, subject, and light comes together in a way that’s nearly impossible to replicate. Grace Bailey’s fall photography session was just that. On her grandmother’s picturesque farm in central North Carolina, surrounded by fall foliage, this shoot was a dream. Inspiration for this photo session came from the imagery of Taylor Swift’s folklore and evermore albums. With autumn light filtering through the trees and the earth-toned hues of fall, it felt like a wonderful afternoon to embrace a whimsical, vintage vibe that evoked a similar sense of nostalgic beauty found in Taylor Swift’s music.
images by jeffery minnish
I was in awe of the stunning landscapes surrounding me. The farm, with its wide-open fields, dense woods, and small serene pond, felt like a secret world tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A gentle breeze rustled through the leaves, making the setting feel alive and full of possibilities. The rustic barn, friendly horses grazing nearby, and a curious cat weaving in and out of the scene, added to its charm.
Grace was a joy to photograph, and she embraced my vision for the shoot every step of the way. Dressed in a flowy, vintage-inspired dress, her soft blonde hair braided in a simple yet charming way, and her sparkling blue eyes made it effortless to capture the vibe I envisioned.
I wanted to capture photos to make you feel as if you had taken a step back in time. A little grainy, with soft golden light casting a dreamy glow on everything. The late daylight, with its golden hues, was the perfect tool to help create this nostalgic feel. The light would shift throughout the afternoon, casting long shadows, illuminating the foliage, and adding warmth. The natural beauty of the farm, combined with this effect, gives the photos a quality that matches the inspiration for the session.
As we spent the afternoon capturing these beautiful images, it was impossible not to feel a sense of wonder at how everything seemed to fall into place. The cool breeze carried with it the unmistakable scent of autumn, and the sounds of nature—rustling leaves, bird calls, and the whinny of the horses—contributed to the overall sense of serendipity. The day felt like it belonged to another era, and it was easy to get lost in the beauty of the moment. It was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things—beautiful landscapes, a wonderful subject, and a fall day—can come together to create something truly magical.
The session was everything I envisioned: an ode to nostalgia and old-time charm, and to the beauty found in ordinary places.
