Photographed by Tina, the cover captures Whitney Miller’s warmth and charm.
The Spring issue of Pretty came to life through the talents of many creative voices—including photographer Tina Cornett, whose beautiful cover images of Whitney Miller captured both warmth and joy. With a background that includes nearly two decades at Southern Living, Tina brings both technical expertise and an intuitive sense of what makes an image feel truly “pretty.”
We asked Tina to share a little about her approach, her experience photographing Whitney, and what inspires her work.
Q&A with Tina
What was your vision when you began planning the cover photography?
I wanted to capture Whitney in a way that felt natural, warm, and joyful—something that reflected both her personality and the welcoming, uplifting tone of Pretty.
What was your favorite moment from the shoot?
It was so nice to meet Whitney and hear her story. I really enjoyed her fun attitude when we photographed the “sprinkles confetti” photo—it was such a joyful moment.
Tina cites this joyful image as one of her favorite moments from the shoot—a playful photograph that perfectly captured Whitney’s fun spirit.
Were there any unexpected challenges during the day?
The location was so lovely, and lots of people were enjoying the beautiful day, so the challenge was making sure not to get extra folks in the photo.
What makes Whitney especially photogenic as a subject?
Whitney is very friendly and kind, which is reflected in her photos. She was also very relaxed and good-natured, willing to do some motions over and over again to get a great shot.
How would you describe your photography style?
I like to think that my style is natural, relaxed, and pretty with beautiful light.
Do you prefer natural light or controlled lighting—and why?
Honestly, I enjoy working with both. I do love natural light, but sometimes it’s just not available, so trying to create a natural feel with lighting is a fun challenge.
What makes a photograph feel “pretty” to you?
Light! Settings and locations are a huge component, but light makes it sing.
“Settings and locations are a huge component, but light makes it sing.”
—Tina Cornett
What inspires your creativity?
Looking at the work of other talented photographers.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about being a photographer?
It’s hard physical work that doesn’t end with the photo shoot. Then there is the edit time. It’s so much more than “just snapping a picture.”
Coffee or tea on shoot days?
Coffee!
About Tina
Tina has been taking photographs for about as long as she can remember. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a degree in Art (photography emphasis), she began working as an intern at Southern Living magazine. That internship soon turned into a full-time role—and eventually into an 18‑year career.
As Senior Foods Photographer, Tina worked alongside the magazine’s talented test kitchen, food stylists, and prop stylists, learning invaluable techniques and refining her eye for detail. In addition to food photography, she also photographed gardens—capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to delicate plant details.
After stepping away from full‑time photography to raise her children and relocating several times—from Birmingham to Orlando, then Columbia, South Carolina; Carmel, Indiana; and now Franklin, Tennessee—Tina returned to photography working with Studiobuell, photographing home interiors and architectural design in Nashville.
Today, Tina continues to bring her signature style—natural, relaxed, and filled with beautiful light—to her work.
On a personal note, Tina is a mom to two wonderful young adults and wife to a supportive and encouraging husband. She’s also a dog mom, coffee drinker, gardener, and—as she describes herself—“a country girl loved and redeemed by a good God.”
Life is beautiful—and through Tina’s lens, it certainly looks that way.
Photography by Tina Cornett
Spring 2026 Issue of Pretty Magazine
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