There is something so special about documenting families year after year. Watching children grow, personalities blossom, and families create new memories is one of my favorite parts of being a family photographer.
This summer, I met the Bailey family at one of my favorite garden locations in Wayzata, Minnesota, for a family mini session. With blooming flowers, beautiful greenery, and plenty of room for little ones to explore, it was the perfect setting for capturing this season of their lives.
A Beautiful Garden Setting in Wayzata
The gardens in downtown Wayzata are one of my favorite locations for summer family photography. They offer colorful flowers, lush greenery, charming pathways, and nearby open spaces that are perfect for young children to move and play naturally.
It’s a location that photographs beautifully while still feeling relaxed and fun for families.
Why Summer Mini Sessions Are Perfect for Young Families
If you have toddlers or young children, a mini session can be the perfect fit.
Young kids often have shorter attention spans, and that’s okay! Mini sessions are designed to move quickly while still allowing plenty of opportunities for genuine smiles, playful moments, and the sweet interactions that make your family unique.
Instead of expecting children to pose for an hour, we spend our time playing, exploring, laughing, and letting their personalities shine. Those authentic moments are often the ones parents treasure most.
Documenting Every Stage
One thing I’ve learned over the years is just how quickly children change.
One year they’re taking their first steps, the next they’re running through flower gardens, telling stories, and showing off their big personalities. These stages pass so much faster than we expect.
That’s why so many of my clients choose to schedule family photos every year—or even twice a year. Rather than waiting several years between sessions, they love creating a collection of memories that tells the story of their family’s journey.
When I look back at families like the Baileys, it’s amazing to see how much changes from one session to the next.
Ready to Update Your Family Photos?
Whether you’re planning ahead for holiday cards, updating the artwork on your walls, or simply wanting to preserve this stage of life before it slips away, a summer family session is the perfect opportunity.
I photograph families throughout Wayzata, Plymouth, Minnetonka, St. Michael, Maple Grove, and the surrounding Twin Cities area, creating relaxed sessions that focus on genuine connection and real moments.
If you’ve been thinking about updating your family photos this year, I’d love to connect and help tell your family’s story. These years go by quickly, and there’s no better time than now to capture the little moments you’ll treasure for years to come. Reach out here to book your session.
