Fall Mini Sessions - Minneapolis Family Photographer
I’m Alison, the Spicy Kid Wrangler!
lAhhhh…FALL! It’s just around the corner, and I feel like time continues to fly! Who doesn’t love the season where the leaves are beautiful, the soup is delightfully warm, and the sweaters feel extra cozy? One of my absolute favorite things about fall is the opportunity to photograph so many wonderful families during my mini sessions. Every year, I’m thrilled to see familiar faces return, and I’m honored to watch your kids grow from year to year. Connecting with people is my favorite part of photography, and being able to capture these special moments means the world to me.
I’m especially passionate about working with neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ families. Creating a safe and welcoming space for everyone is at the core of what I do. Whether your child needs a little extra time to warm up or you’re looking for a photographer who understands the unique dynamics of your family, I’m here to make sure your experience is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. I truly believe that every family deserves to see themselves reflected in beautiful, authentic portraits, and I’m committed to telling your diverse and vibrant stories.
Why Choose A Mini Session?
If you’re looking for a session that’s short, sweet, and perfect for capturing the essence of your family without the time and cost of a full session, my fall mini sessions are just what you need. These sessions are designed to document the ages and stages of your family and make getting those holiday cards ready a breeze. I only offer mini sessions once a year, so if this sounds like the perfect fit for your family, be sure to grab a spot!
Due to the shorter timeframe, mini sessions focus on portrait pictures with everyone looking at the camera. If you’re after more interactive and lifestyle images in addition to those posed family portraits, you’ll definitely want to book a full family session. Full sessions allow for more time to capture the unique personalities and connections within your family, making them perfect for those who want a little extra adventure during their shoot!
Hi, I’m Alison!
Thanks for stopping by, I’m glad you’re here 🙂
Check Out My Work!
The Solarium: My Photo Studio in NE Minneapolis
FALL 2024 MINI SESSIONS
Back to School Peace Garden
Nicollet Island Park
The Mill City Museum
My Studio! The Solarium
Back to School- Peace Garden
The Peace Garden is one of my absolute favorite places to shoot, and it’s a fantastic spot to capture those back-to-school memories. Why settle for just picture day at school when you can get the whole family in on the action? These sessions are quick, but they pack a punch—perfect for getting everyone’s headshots and family photos done in just 15 minutes!
Nicollet Island
Just a short drive from the studio, Nicollet Island is one of my go-to locations in Minneapolis. I have a hidden gem of a spot where the fall leaves create a magical backdrop for your family photos. This location offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a touch of urban charm, making it a versatile spot for any family.
Mill City
If your family is looking for an urban vibe with textured backgrounds, the Mill City area is the place to be. Nestled near the Guthrie Theater and Mill City Museum, this dynamic location is perfect for families who want something a little different. The industrial feel combined with the autumn colors creates a unique and memorable setting for your photos.
Studio Minis!
For families who prefer a controlled environment, especially those who may be sensitive to sensory overload, my studio offers the perfect setting. With a variety of backdrops and props, we can tailor the session to fit your family’s style. Whether you’re into rainbows or neutrals, you’re welcome at our studio. I’ll work closely with you to ensure the backdrops and setups match your family’s vibe, making sure everyone feels comfortable and confident.
Get Excited for Santa Minis!
If you’re planning ahead for your holiday cards and want to avoid the chaos of the mall, my Santa minis are the perfect solution. Keep an eye on my mailing list or follow me on social media to snag a spot for these fun and festive sessions when they drop!
How to Prepare
Preparation is key to a successful session, especially with neurodiverse kids who may need more time to adjust. Make sure everyone is well-fed before the session, but ideally not in the car on the way! This will help avoid hunger-induced meltdowns and ensure everyone is in good spirits. For the parents, especially moms who are often running around taking care of everyone else, I encourage you to take some time for self-care before the session. Whether it’s getting your hair done, putting on a new piece of jewelry, or just taking a few moments for yourself, I want you to feel as amazing as you look.
Styling Tips
When it comes to styling, coordination is key—but that doesn’t mean everyone needs to match exactly. Choose a color scheme that works well with the season and location, and don’t be afraid to let your family’s personalities shine through. For studio sessions, bright colors and bold patterns stand out beautifully against the seamless backdrops. For outdoor sessions, consider softer, more neutral tones that complement the natural surroundings. And remember, the little details matter! From making sure clothes are stain-free to checking that everyone’s shoes are clean, these small touches can make a big difference in your photos.
When In Doubt, Ask Me!
Never forget that I am always here to help! Whether it’s an email chain, we hop on a phone call, or you slide into my DMs, I love connecting with people and giving advice!
Mini Session vs. Full Session
Mini sessions are perfect for families who are comfortable in front of the camera and can get those perfect shots quickly. However, if your family needs a bit more time to warm up, or if you’re looking for a more in-depth experience with a mix of posed and candid shots, a full session is the way to go. Full sessions give us the flexibility to explore different locations, try out multiple outfits, and truly capture the essence of your family.
Got A Large Group? Book a Double!
If you’re planning to include extended family or friends, consider booking two back-to-back mini sessions. This allows for more variety in your photos and ensures that everyone has time to shine. It’s also a great way to make the session more fun and relaxed, especially for kids who may feel more comfortable with their friends around.
What About Pets?
Including pets in family photos can be a wonderful addition, but for mini sessions, it’s important to consider how well your furry friend will cooperate within a limited timeframe. If you’re confident your pet can handle the quick pace, bring them along! Otherwise, a full session might be a better fit to ensure everyone, including your pets, has time to relax and enjoy the experience.
Relationships Are Everything To Me!
More than anything, I want your experience to be amazing. I strive to build real connections with the families I work with, making sure that everyone feels comfortable and has a great time during the session. Don’t stress about the end result—just be in the moment, have fun with your family, and let me handle the rest. I’ll do whatever it takes to get those genuine smiles and laughter from your kids, so you can just relax and enjoy the experience. Family photo sessions are meant to be fun, and I’m here to make sure that’s exactly what they are!
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