a dream, realized

For two decades, Chelsea envisioned a space where clients could feel at home, surrounded by beauty and comfort. Chateau Chelsea brings this vision to life, offering a unique setting that combines the sophistication of indoor studios with the natural allure of outdoor environments. A place where kids can run around safely, change clothes, and have an actual experience while getting photographed.

What more?

it’s got an English Garden Vibe

One of the standout features of Chateau Chelsea is its meticulously designed English garden. This outdoor space is adorned with a variety of flora, pumpkins to find, flowers to pick, a pool, bbq, dining area, green house (with a studio backdrop inside!), and quaint seating areas, providing a picturesque backdrop for any photo session. The garden’s timeless beauty adds a touch of enchantment to every photograph, making each session a unique experience.

capturing raw, unfiltered joy in the fleeting moments we have with young children

Photographing children in an environment where they can play and explore offers numerous benefits:

• Authentic Expressions: When children are engaged and having fun, their genuine smiles and emotions shine through, resulting in more authentic and heartfelt photographs.

• Enhanced Creativity: A playful setting encourages children to express themselves freely, leading to creative and spontaneous moments that are a joy to capture.

• Positive Associations: Combining photography with enjoyable activities helps children associate being photographed with fun, making future sessions more enjoyable.

Studies have shown that engaging children in photography, especially in natural settings, can boost their confidence and mindfulness. It allows them to connect with their surroundings and express themselves creatively. 

plans & inspiration

Grand Opening, June 7th, 2025

in MOUNT JULIET, TENNESSEE

Urban Bay Photography is proud to introduce Chateau Chelsea, an innovative photography studio that seamlessly blends indoor elegance with outdoor charm. This studio has been a 20-year dream in the making for founder Chelsea Erica Smith, reflecting her passion for creating memorable experiences through the art of photography.

Outdoor photography has been Chelsea’s core since she was 11. She loved shooting pretty much anything, out in nature. She hiked cliffs, woke early for sunrises, waiting for blooming flowers, traversed gardens, visited parks, sought out the perfect backdrops… but now, she is bringing it home. All of it. All of the nature, right in one place that she can make her own overflowing nature-field, just for her photos.

What will it feature in the interactive space? 6 Areas

• The Outdoor Deck + Play Area (with gorgeous play house w/ slides, decked with florals for photos), garden, wild and crazy amounts of flowers in an English Garden style, pool, bbq, seating area, bonfire, and tons of room for dogs to run around in an enclosed area.

• The Indoor “Getting Ready" Area for Hair & Makeup with assorted imported wines for wine tasting (hence the chateau!) #MamaNeedsADrink

• The Studio Editing Room (for all of those detailed edits!)

• The Indoor Playroom (for kids if it gets too hot or they just want to play “kitchen” inside or watch Ms. Rachel)

• The Indoor Backdrops (for rainy days or more basic photo needs)

• The Nap Room (a certified quiet area with beds + pack n' plays for kids who need to nap it out)

*the best memories happen surrounded by God’s glory, in nature.