Focusing on moments that capture the emotions you want to feel for a lifetime. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender has been photographing families, newborns and milestones since 2009. Grumpy dads, crying kids and a little bribery — all welcome.
Nashville Family Photographer - Erin Lee Allender
Focusing on moments that capture the emotions you want to feel for a lifetime.
Family & Newborn Photography in Nashville
I’ve been photographing families since 2009, but everything changed when I had my son in 2020. I couldn’t fully grasp the preciousness and fleeting nature of childhood until I experienced motherhood myself. Suddenly, I understood the desire to freeze these moments and revisit them through photographs.
I would be honored to document your family—whether you’re welcoming a newborn, celebrating milestones, or capturing everyday life. Sessions are guided yet relaxed, with posing, candid moments, games for kids, and direction for adults. Grumpy dads, crying kids, or a little bribery? All welcome and expected. From newborns to 80th birthday parties, I’ve photographed it all.
What to Expect
Whether it’s in your home or at a local park, I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way. Feeling nervous in front of the camera is normal, and I’ll provide clear direction to make each pose feel natural. Kids will be kids—and that’s expected! With patience, energy, and playful prompts, we’ll capture the images you’ve been hoping for.
Pricing & Booking
Sessions are simple, flexible, and designed to capture your family’s story while keeping the energy high and the mood light. Fill out the form below to receive your quote. I look forward to working with you!
Recent Sessions
See examples of newborn and family sessions in Nashville.
Years ago Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender photographed identical twins Anna and Sarah on their separate wedding days. Now, with a bunch of grandkids added to the family since, they surprised their mother with the gift of a session with everyone together — at the Nashville family farm where they grew up.
Baby C is the third brother in this family, and his two big brothers had all the usual chaos — until the baby was in the room. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender captures an in-home newborn session with soccer jerseys, sibling energy, and two big brothers gone quiet and gentle around their new brother.
Baby E was wide awake for this whole session — no sleepy newborn curls, just smiles and new personality. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender photographed this in-home 3 month session with Samantha and Graham, catching a milestone they almost skipped.
I've photographed this family every year since A was born, starting with Amy and Adam's engagement session and wedding before that. Last summer I met up with them again for A's 4-year session in Franklin. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender.
Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender photographs baby K's in-home newborn session in East Nashville — all from one beautifully lit master bedroom, proof that you don't need a perfectly staged house to get stunning photographs of your new baby.
Samantha and Graham got married at Long Hollow Gardens in Gallatin, Tennessee. When it came time for maternity photos, they wanted to go back. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender | Golden hour on the grounds where it all began.
Nashville senior session — senior in burgundy dress at golden hour, downtown Nashville sunset in the background
A second birthday and a baby on the way — Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender documents a combined maternity and two-year milestone session at Ellington Agricultural Center, one of Nashville's best spots for outdoor family portraits.
Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender documents an in-home newborn session welcoming baby E — a new little girl, an expressive two-year-old big brother, and proof that your home doesn't need to be perfect for your photographs to be.
Ten years in the making. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender has been photographing this family since the very beginning — and Amari's senior session at Walton Ferry Arboretum is the most beautiful chapter yet. A field, a lake, harsh light, and a school uniform that started it all.
From engagement portraits to wedding day to a family of four — some families you photograph and never forget. This spring session at Walton Ferry Arboretum in Hendersonville, TN was pure, joyful chaos in the best way possible.
Celebrate a 1-year milestone in a spring tulip session at Cheekwood Botanical Garden with a Nashville family photographer. Morning light, umbrellas, and authentic family moments make this session unforgettable.
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.
This Nashville in-home maternity session captures a couple at home with their poodles. Using natural light and familiar spaces the session highlights their real environment and everyday routines before baby arrives.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
An in-home newborn session in Nashville for a longtime client family — their new baby girl, her two-year-old big brother, and the family dog, all photographed at home. Nashville family photographer Erin Lee Allender on returning to the same family for an engagement session, a wedding, and now two newborn sessions.