RECENT WORK FROM ERIN LEE ALLENDER PHOTOGRAPHY.
Nashville Family Photographer | In-Home Winter Newborn Session
This in-home winter newborn session in Nashville features a baby, parents, and quiet, personal moments captured with natural window light. Perfect for families looking for timeless newborn photography.
As a Nashville family photographer, I’m finally taking the time to share some of my favorite families and sessions from over the years. This in-home winter session took place in the baby’s grandmother’s home while the family was visiting, which made it extra special. This little one isn’t a baby anymore, but I love revisiting these moments.
The session used natural window light in a darker room with plenty of fall-off, giving the images a classic, timeless feel. Because the family was only in town briefly, we focused on simple, gentle poses and quiet interactions that felt comfortable and authentic.
Sessions like this — in-home and personal — allow me to document real family life. From soft snuggles to the tiny details that make each baby unique, these images preserve memories that families can return to for years.
To see more newborn and family sessions in Nashville, visit my Nashville Family Photographer page.
Nashville Family Photography | Vanderbilt Campus Golden Hour Session
This Vanderbilt family session features a four-month-old baby, parents, and family dogs at Vanderbilt campus. Golden hour light and natural interactions make this Nashville family photography session full of real moments and smiles.
In honor of their little boy turning four months, I met E’s family at Vanderbilt campus for a Nashville family photography session. The family’s dogs joined in, reminding us that pets are part of family life too.
Since the baby wanted to stay close to their parents, I adapted the session with poses that kept him in their arms while still using different areas of the campus — from the stone buildings to the park-like spaces nearby. The golden hour light gave a warm, soft glow to the moments we photographed, from snuggles and giggles to small bursts of laughter.
We also managed a few individual shots of the baby smiling on his own, giving the family images that show this stage of his life. Shooting in a place that’s meaningful to a family always makes a session feel personal, and Vanderbilt at golden hour offered a mix of light and scenery that worked well for this family.
The session included parents holding and playing with their baby, dogs exploring, and natural interactions that make each family session unique. To see more family photography in Nashville and the surrounding areas, visit my Nashville Family Photographer page.
Nashville Family Photography | Open Field at Sunset in Gallatin
Sometimes the perfect light and a beautiful field are all you need for a memorable family session. See how the Iten family’s golden hour session in Gallatin captured playful toddlers, candid laughs, and unforgettable moments.
Sometimes the grass is just the right height and the light is exactly what you’ve been waiting for in a Nashville family photography session. I had driven past this field in Gallatin day after day, watching how the sun set in just the right direction. Finally, one fall evening, I met the Iten family there to photograph their sweet family of four — some of my favorite people.
Everything comes down to light, whether it’s natural or created. We waited for the sun to dip low enough to give us those wide, glowing images I had envisioned. In the meantime, we captured closer moments, chased toddlers, and managed to tire out everyone except the toddlers.
Once the light was right, I stepped back and captured the full scene. It came together exactly how I had hoped — some of my favorite images from the entire year.
If you’d like to see more outdoor sessions like this, you can explore more on my Nashville Family Photographer page.
Nashville Family Photography | In-Home Porch Session
Sometimes the most meaningful family photography sessions happen right at home. In this Nashville session, natural light, familiar spaces, and a cozy front porch helped capture authentic, lasting moments.
Sometimes your own home is exactly where your Nashville family photography session should take place. There’s no commute, the kids are already comfortable in their space, and snacks or a quick outfit change are always within reach. But more than anything, your home holds meaning. It’s where your everyday life happens, and that’s what makes the photographs feel personal.
Clients often worry their home isn’t tidy enough for a session. First, I promise I’m not judging — my own house is usually in a constant state of chaos. Second, I only need a few good spots with light to create beautiful images.
For the Kelly family, we ended up using their front porch for most of the session. It had beautiful natural light, a fenced-in yard, and steps that gave their two-year-old a place to sit (at least for a few seconds before running off). Years from now, those same steps will mean even more as they see just how small their kids once were in that space.
If you’re on the fence about using your home, I’m always happy to talk it through and help you decide what will work best for your family. And if you’d like to see more sessions like this, you can explore more on my Nashville Family Photographer page.
Nashville Outdoor Family Photography | Edwin Warner Park Fall Session
Last fall, I photographed the Schiftan family at Edwin Warner Nature Center in Nashville. Their session included their two daughters and beloved dog Maddie, making it especially meaningful. Because of a recent diagnosis, the family wanted to capture these memories with Maddie, celebrating the joy she has brought to every stage of their lives.
Last fall, I photographed the Schiftan family at Edwin Warner Nature Center in Nashville during their seasonal family session. Their two daughters and beloved dog Maddie joined the session, creating moments full of connection, laughter, and play. Because of a recent diagnosis, the family wanted to capture these moments with Maddie, preserving the joy and love she brings to their lives. Maddie has been part of the family through major milestones—from Beth’s med school journey and their wedding (where Maddie walked down the aisle in a floral collar!) to the births of their children—making this session especially meaningful.
The session included a mix of candid and posed moments, with Maddie joining in the fun—playing alongside the girls, walking with the family, and snuggling as the parents held their daughters close. The girls wore fall floral dresses, played among the leaves, and laughed as Maddie kept close to the family. The golden fall light at Edwin Warner Nature Center provided a beautiful backdrop for these timeless family portraits.
From playful leaf tosses to quiet snuggles with Maddie, these images document the special bonds that make this family unique. Sessions like this highlight the importance of preserving memories—not only of children growing up but also of pets who are cherished members of the family.
Whether you want to capture children, pets, or outdoor fall portraits, family photography sessions like this create lasting memories that families can treasure for years to come. To see more of how I document families in Nashville and beyond, explore my Family Photography page.
Nashville Fall Family Photography | Portland TN Farm Session
Fall family photography is in full swing! I loved capturing the Broadaway family on a rustic farm in Portland, TN. Two moms, their kids, a rustic location, and lots of laughter—this session reminded me that a family is a family. Inclusive, affirming photography for same-sex and LGBTQ+ families in Nashville and Sumner County.
Photographing the Broadaway family in the fall is always such a joy. I’ve known them forever, and now seeing them as parents makes every session extra meaningful. Their daughter is just a few weeks younger than my son, so I’ve loved watching our kids grow up.
The Broadaways chose a beautiful farm in Portland, Tennessee for their fall session. It had everything—rolling hills, a gravel road, a rustic barn, and even a rusty vintage truck that their oldest was immediately drawn to. He’s the strong, quiet type with the best head of hair, while his younger sister is ready for every moment, full of joy and adventure.
What I loved most about this session wasn’t the backdrop (though it was gorgeous) but the way this family shows up for each other. From little sibling hand-holds in front of the cabin, to the laughter of swing rides under the fall trees, to quiet hugs with each mom, every photo reflects the truth that a family is a family. Love, connection, and belonging are what matter most—and this family has all of that in abundance.
Fall is one of the most popular times for family photos in Nashville and the surrounding areas. The golden light, the changing colors, and the cozy layers make the season magical. But what makes these photos timeless is capturing how a family loves each other, in their own authentic way.
If you’re a LGBTQ+ family looking for an affirming photographer in Nashville or Portland, TN, I would love to help tell your story. Because at the end of the day, every family deserves to be celebrated, seen, and remembered just as they are. To see more of how I document families in Nashville and beyond, you can visit my Family Photography page.
Nashville Fall Family Photography | Ellington Agricultural Center
The Arteaga family of 4 embraced the beautiful fall colors at Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville. From playful moments in the leaves to cozy family portraits, this session was full of laughter, love, and fall vibes. Perfect inspiration for your own family session!
The Arteaga family of four joined me again this fall for their annual family photos, and I always look forward to seeing them. I’ve had the privilege of photographing them for several years—starting right before their youngest was born—and it’s such a joy to watch their boys grow from year to year.
For this session, we met at Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville. Since it was already mid-November, we weren’t sure if the fall color would still be around, but the leaves held on just long enough to give us the perfect backdrop. The trees were glowing, the ground was covered in leaves, and it created just the right mix of color and texture for a family session.
The boys were full of energy and playful from start to finish. Whether they were running through the leaves, lying on the ground with a giant maple leaf, or hugging each other in the middle of their laughter, their personalities came through in every single photo. Photographing siblings who genuinely enjoy being together is always a highlight, and these two brought plenty of fun to the afternoon.
We also took time to capture the family together in more relaxed portraits—mom and dad with each of the boys, and everyone sitting close in the leaves. Those simple moments of just being together often end up being the most meaningful. The Arteagas always bring a mix of joy, connection, and play to their sessions, and it makes documenting their family such a rewarding experience.
Fall continues to be one of the most popular times for family photography in Nashville and Franklin. The weather is comfortable, the light is soft, and the colors bring everything together beautifully. This session with the Arteaga family was the perfect reminder of how special it is to document this season, both in nature and in family life.
If you’ve been thinking about scheduling fall family photos, now is the time to reach out. These sessions always fill quickly, and I’d love to capture your family’s story in a way that reflects both your connection and your personalities. You can see more of my family photography sessions in Nashville by visiting my family photography page.
Nashville Family Photography | Edwin Warner Park Gingham Fall Session
Fall family sessions in Nashville are the perfect chance to update your family photos in a relaxed and natural way. This family of four, with two adorable blonde girls in gingham dresses, spent an afternoon at Edwin Warner Park laughing, hugging, and exploring the woods. From silly faces to sweet snuggles, these photos capture the kind of family connection that makes fall sessions so worthwhile.
Fall is one of the most popular times for family sessions in Nashville, and it’s easy to see why. The light is softer, the weather is cooler, and the parks offer plenty of room for kids to run and play.
The Helfrich family of four brought so much energy and joy to their session at Edwin Warner Park. Their two daughters—ages two and four—were full of personality. The oldest was a little shy at first, but she quickly warmed up and shared some of the sweetest sister moments. The youngest was fearless, friendly, and even surprised me with a hug during our time together.
With toddlers, the best approach is to keep sessions playful. We captured plenty of movement—upside-down giggles, hand-holding walks down the wooded paths, and a lot of snuggles in between. The result was a gallery that reflects who the Helfrich family is right now: busy, joyful, and connected.
Fall is also a great time for parents who want updated family photos before the holidays. Edwin Warner Park and other Nashville spots provide a natural backdrop that works beautifully without feeling overly posed or formal. Sessions like these remind me why I love family photography so much—they’re not about perfect smiles, but about capturing real connection.
If you’ve been thinking about scheduling a family session this fall, now is the time. My calendar fills quickly this season, and I’d love to create images that reflect your family just as you are. You can see more of my Nashville fall family sessions by visiting my family photography page.
Nashville Family Photography | In-Home One Year Milestone Session
Capturing Lillian’s first-year milestone in her Nashville home was full of playful energy and genuine family moments. From giggles to cuddles between sisters, this in-home session highlights the joy of childhood and the love of family. Perfect for families looking for natural, lifestyle photography that celebrates milestones.
Capturing Lillian’s first-year milestone in her family’s home was pure joy. I’ve had the honor of photographing Lillian since she was born, starting from her parents’ wedding, and watching her grow has been incredible.
This high-energy in-home session embraced the chaos and joy of childhood. I didn’t expect Lillian or her sister to hold still, so I followed their lead—chasing giggles, capturing curious expressions, and letting their personalities shine. We used fun spots like the bed, chairs, and crib to naturally gather the girls for a few pictures, letting them play and be themselves in between shots.
I especially love the black-and-white images from this session. Lillian’s big eyes really pop, adding a timeless, emotional touch. From playful moments with her older sister to family giggles at the stairs, these photographs capture genuine love and connection.
Whether it’s a milestone session, a candid in-home moment, or a portrait, family photography is about capturing life as it happens—filled with energy, joy, and memories to treasure for years to come. If you would like to see more milestone sessions you can visit my Nashville Family Photographer Page.
Nashville Family Photography | In-home Milestone Session
Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender captured a heartfelt in-home family photography session with the Schneiders, a family she’s photographed for years. From mitzvah portraits to college milestones, this session celebrated love, laughter, and their dogs — all in the comfort of their Nashville home.
In-Home Family Photography in Nashville | Celebrating Years of Memories
There’s something magical about photographing a family in their own home. The familiar spaces, the way the light falls through the windows, the cozy corners that tell their story — it all creates an environment where everyone can relax and truly be themselves….after you have to stress clean it.
This recent in-home family photography session in Nashville was extra special for me. I’ve been photographing the Schneiders for years — starting with the oldest child’s mitzvah portraits. She’s now in college, but every time I see her, I can still spot the spunky 13 year old I first met.
We spent part of the session inside, capturing everyday moments that feel like them — snuggling with their dogs, relaxing in the living room, and hanging out in the kitchen. Then we headed outside near their home to take advantage of their Nashville neighborhood. The dogs happily joined in, adding a touch of chaos and a lot of joy.
As a Nashville family photographer, these kinds of sessions are my favorite — real, relaxed, and full of genuine connection. I’m honored every time this family invites me back to document their lives. Watching the kids grow up while still recognizing the same personalities I met years ago is the most rewarding part of my job.
If you’ve been thinking about family portraits, consider an in-home session. It’s a beautiful way to capture your family just as you are, in the place you love most. You can see more of my in-home sessions by visiting my Nashville family photography page.
Nashville Family Photography | Outdoor Extended Family Session
An extended family session photographed with both sides of the family at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center.
Next time you have the whole family together you should consider trying to squeeze in a family session or have the gathering photographed. Around Thanksgiving I am often hired to photograph extended family photographs for families that have all their kids and grandkids in town for the holiday. I’ve photographed families on vacation together, milestone birthday parties, and just regular old sessions that people do when everyone is in town. This session was different in that we had both sides of the family represented. How cool is that Goldie has pictures with BOTH of her grandmas. On this warm summer day we photographed Goldie with her favorite people at Shelby Bottoms in East Nashville! Please enjoy a few of my favorites.
Here are some other occasions that I’ve photographed that brought extended family photography sessions:
70th Birthday Session in Franklin
Parker’s Studio Session in Germantown
70th Birthday Party Kentucky
Brentwood Extended Family Session
Dollywood Vacation Reunion
80th Birthday Party
75th & 80th Birthday Party at Noah Liff Opera House
Thanksgiving Edwin Warner Extended Family Session
You can see even more of my family photography by visiting my Nashville Family Photography page.
Nashville Family Photography | Belle Meade Mansion Milestone 10 Year Anniversary Session
A 10 year anniversary and family session photographed at Belle Meade Mansion where the couple was married.
More than 12 years ago I had a first date with my now husband and on that same day I photographed an engagement session for Kristen & Tim. I photographed their wedding at Belle Meade Mansion and when their daughter was born, I photographed her newborn session. Every year since I have photographed a family session and every. I love this family. On their 10 year wedding anniversary we returned to the place where they were married and I photographed their family session there. Tim even surprised Kristen by wearing his wedding suit and a bouquet that was a replica of the same one she had on their wedding day. So much has changed at Belle Meade Mansion since then and so much has changed in all of our lives, but it was wonderful to revisit their wedding day and to include their daughter, who will always be one of my favorite clients. It is not lost on me what a honor it is to document so many stages of a couple’s life. I will forever be grateful to be the one chosen to do so.
Please enjoy some of my favorites from their Belle Meade Mansion 10 year anniversary photography session.
You can see more of my milestone family sessions by visiting my Nashville Family Photography Page.
Nashville Family Photography | Franklin Cake Smash Session
An adorable Jack and his 1 year old cake smash session photographed in his grandparents home outside of Nashville, TN.
During the first year of your baby’s life we often schedule photography sessions when they are a newborn, at 6 months and then at 1 year. Sometimes families opt to have me photograph their child trying out their first bit of cake, also known as a cake smash. Kids are so unpredictable and you’ll never know if they will demolish it or hate it. My son hated it. Jack didn’t and could there be anything more adorable than this curly haired baby? Here are some of my favorites from Jack’s 1 year baby photos and cake smash that we took in his grandparents home on a very cold and dreary day.
You can see more 1 year and cake smash sessions by going to my Nashville Family Photography page.
Nashville Maternity Photography | In-Home Milestone and Maternity Session
Greffen’s two year old Nashville family photography session with his baby sister’s maternity shoot mixed in. Special appearance by him Bernese Mountain Dogs.
One of my favorite families added another wonderful human being to to the world! Greffen and company invited me out to photograph his 2 year old photos and his baby sister’s maternity photos at their home. His lovable Bernese Mountain Dogs even sat in on a few (see what I did there?). There’s nothing that burns more calories than running after a 2 year old boy. Here are a few of my favorites from their Nashville family and newborn photography session. You can see more examples of Maternity Sessions by visiting my Nashville Family Photography Page.
Nashville Newborn Photography | In-Home Baby Boy Session
William’s Nashville Newborn photography session in his home with his doodle!
A newborn with hair always gets me. Don’t you just want to stroke that fluffy little head of hair? Here is William’s newborn session in his home! You can see more Nashville newborn photography sessions by visiting my family photography page.
Nashville Family Photography | Outdoor Session at Marcella Vivrette Smith Park
Photographs from Abby’s 2 year old session at Marcella Vivrette Smith Park in Brentwood, TN.
This summer I got to photograph sweet little Abby’s 2 year photos. Full of plenty of 2 year old energy, she was a doll just like always. She just had a much bigger vocabulary! Please enjoy some photographs of this adorable squishy face smile from her session at Marcella Vivrette Smith Park in Brentwood, Tennessee. You can see more outdoor summer sessions on my Nashville family photography page.
Nashville Maternity Photography | Carnton Plantation Session
Maggie and Scott’s maternity session at Carnton Plantation in Franklin, TN,
This spring Maggie and Scott were in town and I was so fortunate to able to photograph their maternity session at Canton Plantation. Maggie looked gorgeous and I enjoyed being able to finally get to work with them. Here are a few of my favorites. If you would like to see more of my maternity sessions visit my Nashville family photography page.
Nashville Newborn Photography | In-home East Nashville Session
Sweet Maeve’s Nashville newborn photography session.
Here’s sweet Maeve’s newborn photography session shot in her home with her parents and her puppy! Red head babies get me every time. You can see more newborn photography by going to my Nashville Family Photography page.
Nashville Newborn Photography | In-Home Hendersonville Session
Photographs from Shea’s newborn and first family session in Nashville, TN.
One of my favorite toddlers got a little sister and boy is she happy about it. Check out Shea’s newborn session and first family session. This family is just too adorable. You can see more of my newborn photography by visiting my Nashville family photography page!
Nashville Family Photography | Nashville Zoo Milestone Session
Lily’s 1 year baby photos photographed at the Nashville Zoo.
This little princess had her 1 year old photos take at the Nashville Zoo. It was so much fun to explore with her and photograph her interactions with the animals. You won’t be able to resist her squishy face smile! You can see more of my lifestyle sessions by visiting my Nashville Family Photography page.
