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Category Archives: Family

My 4 Favorite Family Photo Locations in Minnesota (By Season)

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Choosing the right location for your family session can completely shape the look and feel of your photos. Living and photographing in Minnesota means we get the beauty of all four seasons and each one brings its own magic.

If you’re planning a 2026 family session, here are my four favorite locations, one for each season, that consistently deliver stunning, meaningful images.

Spring:: Lake Harriet Rose Garden

Spring in Minnesota is something special, and there’s no better place to capture it than the Lake Harriet Rose Garden in Minneapolis.

This location comes alive with:

  • Apple blossoms and crabapple tree blooms
  • Tulips and lilacs
  • Lush greenery and vibrant florals

Not only does it look beautiful, but it smells incredible too—which makes your session feel like a full sensory experience. The variety of textures and colors creates soft, romantic backdrops that are perfect for families with young kids or anyone wanting that fresh, light-filled spring look.

If you’re searching for spring family photos in Minneapolis or flower-filled photo locations in Minnesota, this is one of the best spots.

Summer: Wayzata (Downtown Wayzata & Lake Minnetonka)

Summer sessions in downtown Wayzata are everything you want Minnesota to feel like.

Right along Lake Minnetonka, this location offers so much variety in one session:

  • Sandy beach vibes
  • Boardwalk and marina views
  • Green spaces and flowers
  • Charming downtown textures

It’s perfect for families who want a relaxed, playful session that captures real moments; kids running barefoot, parents soaking in the sunshine, and that golden summer glow.

If you’re looking for Lake Minnetonka family photos or a Minnesota summer beach session, Wayzata is always a favorite.

Fall: Golden Fields at Otsego Park & Elm Creek Park Reserve

Fall is hands-down one of the most popular times for family photos—and for good reason.

My go-to locations are grassy fields like:

These spots offer:

  • Tall golden grasses
  • Warm, glowing sunsets
  • Open space for kids to run and play

From September through even early November, the light hits just right creating that dreamy golden-hour glow Minnesota is known for.

If you’ve been searching for fall family photos near Maple Grove or golden field photo locations in Minnesota, these are two of the best.

Winter: Rice Park

Winter sessions can feel intimidating, but Rice Park in downtown St. Paul makes them magical.

Surrounded by:

You get a mix of historic architecture and cozy winter charm.

From December through March, the park is filled with twinkling lights, creating a beautiful backdrop whether:

  • Fresh snow is falling
  • The ground is lightly covered
  • Or even during those in-between melt days

The sun reflects off the buildings in the most stunning way, and there’s even the option to step inside the Landmark Center (with a photo pass) for added variety.

If you’re considering winter family photos in St. Paul or a downtown Minnesota holiday session, this location is hard to beat.

Ready to Book Your 2026 Family Session?

Every season tells a different story and I’d love to help you capture yours.

If you’re looking to book your 2026 family session, reach out and I’d love to connect, hear your vision, and help you choose the perfect location for your family. Reach out here!

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    The Miller Family :: Lowry Nature Center, Victoria, MN

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    Why Summer Is the Most Underrated Time for Family Photos

    This past summer, I had the pleasure of photographing the Miller family at Lowry Nature Center in Victoria, MN. With two busy teens and two energetic school-aged boys, the family was juggling sports, homework, and summer activities, but we still captured a session full of laughter, connection, and genuine summer vibes.

    Summer often gets overlooked when it comes to family photos, but after this session, it’s easy to see why it’s actually the perfect time for families, especially those with teens.

    Longer Days = More Flexibility (and Happier Kids)

    With summer’s extended daylight, we had the freedom to schedule the session during golden hour,t he magical hour just before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and perfect for photos.

    Even with teens who sometimes resist having their picture taken, the Miller kids were relaxed and playful because they weren’t rushed. The extended day meant we could explore different areas of the nature center without feeling the pressure of early bedtimes or school schedules.

    Lush Greens & Glowy Light You Can’t Get Any Other Time of Year

    Lowry Nature Center was bursting with greenery and summer blooms, creating a natural, vibrant backdrop for the Miller family. From winding trails to open fields, every shot felt alive and colorful.

    Summer light brings out textures and tones that just can’t be replicated in other seasons making even candid moments like teens joking with each other or little ones running ahead of the group feel cinematic and timeless.

    Slower Schedules Mean More Genuine Connection

    Summer provides a slower rhythm, even for busy families. The Miller family’s teens, usually balancing sports and summer jobs, had space to engage naturally with their younger siblings. The school-aged boys, who are normally full of energy, could run, explore, and play freely without being hurried.

    This slower pace allowed for authentic moments the kind of photos that make parents pause, smile, and feel like they’ve captured a season of life rather than just a snapshot in time.

    Teens Shine When They Feel Free

    Teens often struggle with posed photos, but summer sessions feel effortless. The Miller teens relaxed into the open spaces, giving me natural smiles and interactions that felt completely genuine. The freedom to wander the trails, sit under trees, or playfully interact with their younger brothers created images that truly reflect their personalities.

    Memories That Will Last

    Family photos aren’t just about pretty pictures they’re about capturing the essence of your family right now. Summer sessions, like the Miller family’s at Lowry Nature Center, provide the light, space, and relaxed energy to create images that parents and kids will treasure for years.

    Whether you have busy teens or energetic younger kids, summer offers a window to capture authentic, joyful moments before life moves into the next season.

    If you’re thinking about scheduling your own summer session in the Twin Cities area, don’t overlook this magical season, it might just be the perfect time for your family photos. Here is the link to book your Mini session, there are still summer dates available. Please reach out if you have questions!

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      Summer Mini Session at Lowry Nature Center :: Carver, Minnesota

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      This summer, I had the pleasure of photographing the Fish family during one of my summer mini sessions at the beautiful Lowry Nature Center in Carver, Minnesota. Nestled within the Carver Park Reserve, Lowry is the perfect location for family photos—complete with wildflower fields, forest trails, and stunning views over the lake.

      The Fish family chose a mini session because it was the ideal length of time for their three young kids ages 7, 4, and 2. At this stage of parenting, flexibility is everything. That’s why I design these sessions to be short, sweet, and most importantly fun.

      Keeping Kids Engaged During a Photo Session

      If you’ve ever tried to get a toddler to sit still and smile for a camera, you know it’s no easy task. Over the years, I’ve found that the best way to capture genuine smiles is to let kids be kids! For this session, we embraced the energy of early childhood by incorporating games like:
          •    Ring Around the Rosie (always a hit!)
          •    Tag (with lots of giggles)
          •    Races across the meadow

      These simple activities not only keep the little ones engaged, but also allow me to capture authentic moments of laughter, connection, and movement. Parents often come into a session a little nervous about how their kids will behave but when we turn the session into a playful adventure, the results speak for themselves.

      A Worthwhile Adventure

      By the end of the session, we had captured a beautiful mix of posed portraits and candid moments that reflect this sweet season of life for the Fish family. Mom and Dad may have felt a little tired (chasing toddlers through wildflowers will do that!), but they left knowing we had preserved real memories they’ll cherish for years.

      Want to Book Your Own Mini Session?

      If you’re a busy parent wondering whether a photo session is “worth it” this year, this is your sign to say yes. Mini sessions are a perfect way to update your family photos without the stress of a full-length session. And with a little planning (and a few fun games), your kids can actually enjoy the process.

      I still have a handful of spots available for late summer and fall mini sessions. We’ll choose a beautiful location like Lowry Nature Center, Elm Creek Park Reserve , or another scenic spot here in the west metro area of Minnesota.

      Click here to see current availability and book your mini session

      I’d love to help you capture this season before it slips away.

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        Petite Session :: Maple Grove, MN

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        As kids get older, it gets harder and harder to find time that works for everyone. That’s exactly why the Johnson family decided to book a petite family session this year. With a 19-year-old and a 15-year-old in the house, their schedules are full, and family time is more precious than ever.

        We met at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, Minnesota one of my favorite spots for photography. With open green spaces, blooming wildflowers, and soft summer light, it provided the perfect setting to capture this season of life for the Johnsons.

        Their petite session was short and sweet, just enough time to get both candid and posed shots without anyone feeling rushed. We captured family group portraits, individual shots of each of the kids (perfect for this year’s holiday cards!), and a few sweet moments between mom and dad, too.

        As a photographer, it’s always special to work with families who are in the middle of transition—whether it’s the teenage years, preparing for an empty nest, or simply navigating busy lives. The Johnsons were a joy to be with, and it was an honor to preserve this stage of their journey.

        If you’re looking for family photography in Maple Grove or the surrounding Twin Cities area and your calendar feels packed, a petite session might be just what you need. These 20-minute sessions are ideal for families with older kids, busy parents, or anyone looking to update their family portraits without a big time commitment.

        I still have a few petite sessions available this year, and I’d love to see your family in front of my lens!
        Click here to book your petite session. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

        Looking for a Maple Grove family photographer or exploring family photo ideas for teens? You’re in the right place. These petite sessions are quick, fun, and meaningful—and perfect for holiday cards, wall art, or simply documenting your family’s current chapter.

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          Noerenberg Gardens :: Wayzata Family Photographer

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          There’s something magical about summer in Minnesota, and the Flagger family’s photo session at Noerenberg Gardens in Wayzata captured that magic perfectly. Between the vibrant green grass, blooming gardens, and the sparkling backdrop of Lake Minnetonka, this session was the definition of summer beauty.

          Noerenberg Gardens is one of my favorite hidden gems in the Twin Cities area. Located right on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, it features manicured gardens bursting with color, tall trees that give just the right amount of dappled light, and peaceful lake views that create a calming and beautiful environment for your family photos.

          The Pfleghaar family took full advantage of the golden evening light during their weeknight session, and it truly shows in every image. One of the best parts about summer family sessions is that everyone is sun-kissed, glowing, and relaxed—there’s a carefree energy that only summer can bring. From bare feet in the grass to wind gently moving through the flowers, everything about this session reflected the joy of the season.

          Why Book a Summer Family Session?

          Summer is one of the best times to update your family photos. You don’t have to worry about layering clothes, everyone looks healthy and tan, and kids tend to be more relaxed in the slower summer pace. And since most summer sessions take place on weeknights, they’re easy to fit into your schedule without interrupting your weekend plans.

          Plus—you’ll be one step ahead for the holidays. Booking your session now means your updated family photos will be ready in time for Christmas cards, framed gifts for grandparents, or new prints for your wall.

          Mini and Petite Sessions Available in July & August

          I still have openings for family mini and petite sessions in July and August, and I’d love to photograph your crew. Whether you’re looking for a quick update or a little more time to explore together, there’s a session type that will work perfectly for your family:

          Book a Mini or Petite Session Here
          (Mini sessions are quick and sweet, while petite sessions give a bit more time and flexibility!)

          Don’t wait until fall when everyone is busy and schedules fill up. Let’s make the most of summer’s golden hour and beautiful scenery while it’s here.

          Looking for a Wayzata family photographer?
          Let’s create beautiful, joyful, and sun-soaked memories together at Noerenberg Gardens or another stunning local spot.

          If you’re interested in booking your summer family session near Lake Minnetonka, head to my booking site to reserve your spot.

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            Becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t easy. It took a lot of hard work in understanding what I wasn’t good at before understanding what I was good at. I failed a lot in the process.
            .
            We often only see the good things and success stories on social media, but getting to the point where we are confident in ourselves and our work takes time and lots of failures. Trust me. 25 years and still working at it!!

            22 4
            Open post by federphotography with ID 18163803220432603
            Becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t easy. It took a lot of hard work in understanding what I wasn’t good at before understanding what I was good at. I failed a lot in the process. . We often only see the good things and success stories on social media, but getting to the point where we are confident in ourselves and our work takes time and lots of failures. Trust me. 25 years and still working at it!!
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            FK

            Minneapolis Wedding and portrait photographer for the Modern & timeless

             

            Based in the Twin Cities area and available for travel worldwide.

            Get in touch with Karen for any questions.

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