Knoxville TN Family Photographer | Hayley Howard Photography

Hi, I’m Hayley — a Knoxville TN family photographer who’s also a mom. I know exactly how fast life moves. I know how quickly tiny fingers grow, how fast giggles change, and how fleeting these little moments can feel. I believe that family photography is one of the most meaningful ways to press pause and hold on.

Whether this is your first family session or your fifth, I’m here to make it easy, fun, and full of heart. I photograph real families being their real selves — laughing, snuggling, playing, and just being together.

Knoxville, TN: The Perfect Backdrop for Family Photography

As a family photographer in Knoxville, I feel lucky to live in a place with so much natural beauty. Knoxville has it all — rolling hills, scenic overlooks, wooded trails, riverside views, and historic charm.

Spring and fall are my favorite seasons for outdoor family photography. The weather is mild, which makes it much easier for little ones to stay happy and comfortable. And the scenery? Absolutely stunning. Spring brings blooming dogwoods and fresh greenery, while fall offers golden light and colorful leaves.

No matter your style — playful, peaceful, earthy, or refined — there’s a spot in East Tennessee that will feel like home for your photos.

What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session

Styling can have a big impact on the final look of your photos. Here are my top tips to help your family look and feel amazing:

• Stick with neutral colors like cream, tan, soft gray, muted greens, or earthy tones.
• Avoid distracting prints or large logos. They can pull attention away from your faces and your connection.
• Coordinate colors instead of perfectly matching. Think complementary tones and textures across outfits.
• Choose clothing that is comfortable and allows you and your kids to move, sit, and play freely.
• For moms, long flowy dresses photograph beautifully and add movement to your images.

If you’re unsure what to wear, I’m happy to help you plan. I’ll even send you visual examples.

What to Bring to Your Session (Especially With Kids!)

Family sessions are all about fun, connection, and a little bit of chaos (in the best way). To help everything go smoothly, I always recommend bringing:

• An extra change of clothes for the kids — just in case!
• Snacks and drinks (something mess-free like puffs or fruit snacks works great).
• Baby wipes, burp cloths, and tissues for quick clean-ups.
• Your child’s favorite toy or comfort item — these often help shy little ones warm up.
• A light blanket to sit on, if we’re photographing in a field or park.

Being prepared for the unexpected helps everyone relax and enjoy the session, even when things don’t go perfectly (because let’s be honest — real life with kids rarely does!).

My Style: Movement, Emotion, and Real Life

My sessions aren’t about stiff poses or forced smiles. They’re about creating space for your family to just be. I use gentle prompts and playful movement to draw out real connection.

We’ll walk, snuggle, spin, laugh, and maybe even play a game or two. I keep things light and active, especially for little ones who don’t want to sit still — and honestly, I don’t want them to either!

This approach keeps kids engaged and allows their personalities to shine. It also helps parents relax, which leads to more authentic moments.

From One Mom to Another: I Get It

As a mom myself, I know that family sessions can feel overwhelming. You’re trying to get everyone dressed, out the door, and in a good mood — and that’s before the camera even comes out.

I want you to know: I’ve been there. I bring patience, flexibility, and empathy to every session. If your baby needs to nurse, we pause. If your toddler throws a tantrum, we regroup. No judgment, ever.

Some of my favorite photos come from those “in-between” moments — when your child runs to you for comfort or rests their head on your shoulder. That’s real life. That’s what I love to capture.

Why Family Photography Matters

Family photography isn’t just about the pictures. It’s about freezing time and preserving memories you’ll cherish forever.

Your kids are changing fast. One day, they’ll want to see what life looked like — how you loved them, held them, laughed with them. These images will show them.

They’ll remind you too.

I talk more about this in another post that’s close to my heart: Why You Should Invest in Family Photos

Some Favorite Knoxville Locations for Family Photos

If you’re wondering where to shoot your session, don’t worry — I’ll help you pick the perfect spot. A few of my go-to locations include:

• Lakeshore Park – Beautiful views, walking paths, and lots of space for kids to explore.
• Sequoyah Hills – Peaceful, timeless, and filled with natural charm.
• Ijams Nature Center – Great mix of wooded trails and riverside views.
• Mead’s Quarry – For a more adventurous, scenic feel.
• Downtown Knoxville – Urban charm with brick textures and fun murals.

Each location offers something different, and we’ll find the one that suits your family best.

Additional Resources: My Favorite Photography Locations in and Around Knoxville, Tennessee

Why Tennessee is a Dream Location

Let’s Capture Your Family’s Story

If you’re still looking for a Knoxville TN family photographer, I would love to talk with you. Whether you’re brand new to family photography or you’ve worked with photographers before, I promise to make this a meaningful, stress-free experience.

As a Knoxville family photographer, I bring heart, patience, and a focus on connection. I care deeply about the families I work with and consider it a true honor to document their love.

If you’re searching for a family photographer Knoxville TN locals trust — someone who values authenticity and timeless images — I’m here. Let’s start planning a session that celebrates your life, just as it is.

Ready to Book?

You can learn more about what it’s like to work with me right here:
The Hayley Howard Experience

Or you can reach out now to reserve your date:
Contact Hayley

Don’t wait to capture this season. These are the days you’ll want to remember.

With love,
Hayley
Knoxville TN Family Photographer | Hayley Howard Photography
hayleyhoward.co