Meet Elizabeth Nord of Franklin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Nord.

Hi Elizabeth, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
From a young age, I was captivated by the power of a photograph to preserve a memory, especially as I experienced significant losses in my life. Photos became a way to hold onto those I loved, to keep their stories alive and tangible. This personal connection to memory-making is what continues to fuel my passion for photography today.

While studying Economics at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, I began taking night courses in photography, not knowing how profoundly they would shape my path. It was there I met my mentor, who saw something unique in my style and encouraged me to pursue photography fully.

My first camera, a Christmas gift, was what kicked things off. I started taking photos for $50 a session — $240 for my first wedding. Back then, that felt huge. But as I kept shooting, I started booking more sessions and refining my style. The big turning point came during a wedding at the Peninsula Hotel in Chicago. It was one of my highest bookings at the time, and I was working alongside some of the best in the industry. That experience made me realize that I belonged in the luxury market.

Today, my style is all about natural light, timeless colors, and capturing people in a way that feels authentic and real. After having my first baby, I reintroduced family photography and created a full-service experience that includes wardrobe, studio space, and hair and makeup. My clients now invest in heirloom albums and custom wall art — the kind of pieces that tell a story and last for generations.

It’s been 14 years since those early days, and my love for capturing memories hasn’t changed. Whether it’s a wedding day or a family session, my goal is to create something that feels true to who my clients are — something they’ll hold onto forever.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve made my fair share of mistakes along the way — we all do. Even now, fourteen years in, I’m still learning, still growing. Just this week, I made a mistake but quickly found a way to resolve it. We’re only human, right? I’ve learned that the key is to keep going, to adapt, and to use those moments as stepping stones for growth, both personally and professionally.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in creating heirloom photography that tells a story — one that’s timeless, sentimental, and true to who you are. From luxury weddings to family portraits, my work is all about capturing the beauty of real moments in a way that feels authentic and natural.

I’m known for my ability to put people at ease in front of the camera, creating a comfortable space where genuine moments can unfold. My signature style is bright, romantic, and classic, with true-to-life colors and soft, warm light that never goes out of style.

What I’m most proud of? The trust my clients place in me to preserve their most meaningful moments — from the first dance on their wedding day to the everyday beauty of family life. I’ve had the honor of photographing some truly unforgettable weddings, both in my home state of Tennessee and in the city that will always have my heart — Chicago. I’ve been honored to photograph all over the United States as well including cities like Atlanta, Philadelphia, Miami, Knoxville, Memphis, Lake Geneva, Columbus OH, and many more.

What sets me apart is my commitment to a full-service experience. From wardrobe and styling for my family sessions to a beautifully curated album or wall art gallery for my wedding clients, I handle every detail so that my clients can be fully present in the moment, knowing that every part of their story is being thoughtfully documented and preserved for years to come.

What makes you happy?
Capturing genuine connections and seeing the joy on my clients’ faces when they see their photos and hold them in their hands for the first time. There’s something so powerful about creating tangible keepsakes that will be cherished for generations. It’s more than just images — it’s preserving legacies, telling stories, and giving people a way to relive their most treasured moments over and over again.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.elizabethnord.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/elizabethnordphoto (weddings) www.instagram.com/elizabethnordstudio (portraits)
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethnordphoto
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethNordphotography

Image Credits
My headshot credit: Shannon LeBlanc