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Category Archives: newborn

The Jeska Family:: Mendoda Heights, MN

There is something incredibly special about photographing families through every season of life, and Lizzy and Ryan’s story is one that has been such a joy to witness.

I first met these two when they trusted me to capture their engagement session, followed by their beautiful fall 2020 wedding. A few years later, I had the privilege of photographing their first newborn session after welcoming their oldest daughter into the world. And now, somehow, six years have already flown by!

This spring, I was honored to step back into their home to photograph their growing family as they welcomed their beautiful twin baby girls.

It’s hard to believe that the couple who once stood in front of my camera as newly engaged are now parents to three amazing daughters. Watching families grow is truly one of my favorite parts of being a photographer.

When Lizzy told me they were expecting twins, and that it came as quite the surprise, I couldn’t have been more excited for them. Twin newborn sessions are always so much fun because every little moment feels extra special. From tiny matching details to sweet sibling interactions, there are so many memories to capture.

One of my favorite parts of the session was seeing their oldest daughter again. She has grown so much since I photographed her newborn session and absolutely adored her new baby sisters. She brought so much personality and excitement to the session, making for some incredibly sweet moments that their family will treasure for years to come.

We photographed everything in the comfort of their home, allowing everyone to stay relaxed while documenting this new season together. Lizzy picked out the sweetest coordinating outfits for the girls that perfectly complemented the soft, natural feel of their home. Every tiny detail came together beautifully.

One of the greatest gifts of this career is building relationships that last far beyond a wedding day. Getting the opportunity to photograph couples as they become parents and then continue documenting their growing families is something I never take for granted.

Congratulations again, Lizzy and Ryan! It has been such a blessing to watch your family grow, and I couldn’t be happier for the five of you.

Looking for a Minneapolis Newborn Photographer?

Whether you’re expecting your first baby, welcoming twins, or adding another little one to your family, I’d love to help document this unforgettable season.

My in-home newborn sessions are designed to be relaxed, natural, and centered around your family’s connection. There’s no need to pack up everything and leave the house I come to you so everyone can stay comfortable while we create timeless images you’ll treasure forever.

If you’re expecting a baby this summer or fall, now is the perfect time to reserve your newborn session. Most families book during the second trimester to ensure availability around their due date.

Ready to book your Minneapolis or Twin Cities newborn session? I’d love to hear from you and help you preserve these first precious days with your newest little one.

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    Newborn Session :: Shakopee, MN

    There is something incredibly special about getting to watch families grow over time, and the Striker family is one of those families that I feel truly grateful to know and photograph.

    A few weeks ago, I traveled to Shakopee to meet their newest little one, baby Caleb, for his newborn session. It feels like just yesterday I was photographing this sweet family for their fall family session, and now I was stepping into their home to capture them as a family of four.

    Baby Caleb made his arrival just a few weeks ago, and from the moment I walked in, it was clear how loved he already is. His big sister was absolutely smitten with him. Throughout the entire session, she couldn’t stop kissing him, gently loving on him, and staying close by his side. Watching that kind of connection unfold is one of my favorite parts of newborn photography. Those first bonds between siblings are so pure and full of joy.

    Caleb decided he didn’t want to miss a thing and stayed wide awake for nearly the entire session. While he wasn’t interested in sleeping, it gave us the sweetest opportunity to capture his bright, beautiful blue eyes. I have a feeling those eyes are going to be one of his signature features as he grows.

    One of the greatest joys of this work is returning to families again and again as their story unfolds. Being invited back into a home to document another milestone is something I never take for granted. Last fall, I had the privilege of photographing the Striker family for their family session, and getting to see them again in this new season felt like picking up right where we left off.

    These are the kinds of relationships that make this job so meaningful watching little ones grow, seeing parents step into new seasons of life, and capturing the real, beautiful moments in between.

    If you are welcoming a new baby this year, I would still love to get you on my calendar. My newborn sessions fill up quickly, especially around due dates, so I always recommend reaching out as early as possible to reserve your spot.

    Congratulations to the Striker family on baby Caleb. It was such an honor to capture this sweet new chapter for you, and I cannot wait to see you again in the future as your family continues to grow.

    If you’re looking for a Minnesota newborn photographer, you can learn more about newborn sessions and view more work HERE!

    Ready to book your session or check availability? Contact me here!

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      Newborn Session :: Hugo, MN

      There is something incredibly special about watching a family grow over the years, and Baby Noah’s newborn session was one of those full-circle moments that reminded me exactly why I love what I do.

      I first met Sarah and Brandon during their engagement session years ago, and since then, I’ve had the honor of photographing so many beautiful milestones in their lives from their wedding day to maternity sessions, newborn photos for their other children, and now sweet baby Noah’s arrival. Being invited back again and again to document these memories is one of the greatest gifts as a photographer.

      Baby Noah was absolutely precious during his newborn session. He was calm, cozy, and already so loved by his family. One of my favorite parts of the session was watching his big sister interact with him. She was gentle, sweet, and completely smitten with her new baby brother. From softly holding his hand to snuggling close for photos, you could already see the beautiful bond forming between them.

      Those sibling moments are always some of my favorites to capture during newborn photography sessions because they tell such an authentic story of family connection and love. The joy and pride on a big sibling’s face is something parents never want to forget.

      As a Minnesota newborn photographer, sessions like this remind me how meaningful these images become over time. Babies grow so quickly, and those sleepy newborn stretches, tiny fingers, and family snuggles change in the blink of an eye. Photographing families through every stage; engagement, wedding, maternity, newborns, and beyond is truly the heart behind my business.

      Sarah and Brandon’s journey into parenthood has been beautiful to witness, and capturing Baby Noah’s newborn session feels like another chapter added to their incredible story. I’m endlessly thankful for families who trust me to preserve these memories year after year.

      If your family is growing and you’re looking for a photographer to capture your story in an authentic and meaningful way, I would love to connect with you. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or welcoming another little one into your family, these moments deserve to be remembered.

      Please contact me to book your maternity, newborn, or family photography session, I would be honored to help tell your story.

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        Roseville Newborn Session:: Luong Family

        Including Siblings… Can I Add Them?

        If you’ve ever booked a newborn session (or are thinking about it), you’ve probably wondered: “Can I include older siblings?”

        The short answer? Absolutely. And you should.

        Because some of the most meaningful images I deliver aren’t just of your brand new baby… they’re of the connections forming right in front of us.

        The Luong Family (A Full-Circle Story)

        One of my favorite examples of this is the Luong family.

        I’ve had the honor of photographing all three of their babies from their newborn sessions to where they are now, and watching their family grow has been one of the sweetest parts of what I do.

        Each time a new baby arrived, we didn’t just document the newborn stage we have captured the transition of the whole family and many moments in between at various family sessions. brother or sister.

        Those are the moments that, years from now, that we will all remember so well.

        Why Including Siblings Matters

        Yes, we want those dreamy solo newborn images.
        But including siblings adds something you simply can’t recreate later:

        • The real-life dynamic of your family in this exact season
        • The beginning of sibling relationships
        • Genuine, unscripted love (and sometimes a little chaos which I promise photographs beautifully)

        These aren’t just “extra” photos… they’re often the ones parents end up loving the most.

        “But What If My Toddler Doesn’t Cooperate?”

        I hear this all the time, and I totally get it.

        Toddlers are unpredictable. They’re busy, emotional, and not always thrilled about sharing the spotlight especially when a sibling comes home.

        But here’s the truth:
        They don’t need to be perfect. They just need to be themselves.

        Some of the best images come from the in-between moments—the giggles, the wiggles, even the “I’m done” energy.

        How to Make It Easier (Yes, Even Fun)

        Here are a few simple ways to set everyone up for success:

        1. Bribes are welcome here, absolutely no judgement!
        Snacks, treats, a small toy, or even the promise of something fun after the session; this is not the time to avoid it. It works.

        2. Keep expectations low
        We don’t need 30 minutes of perfect posing. We need a few genuine moments and I’ll guide the rest.

        3. Let them warm up
        I never rush siblings. Feel free to let them come in and out, take breaks, and feel comfortable.

        4. Make it their “job”
        Kids love feeling important. Helping with the baby, sitting close, giving a kiss, it becomes something they’re proud of.

        The Truth? It All Comes Together

        At the end of the session, something always happens:

        It clicks.

        The chaos settles, the connections show, and we capture images that feel like your real life, but at its most real and authentic.

        And when you see your gallery, you won’t be thinking about whether your toddler “cooperated.”

        You’ll be thinking:
        “I’m so glad we included them.”

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          Eagan Newborn Session:: Preparing for your in-home session

          Eagan Newborn session in Minnesota

          There is something so incredibly special about welcoming a new baby into your home and getting to document those first days as your family grows.

          Recently, I had the joy of photographing Brittany and Forest as they welcomed their newborn baby girl into the world, alongside their sweet (and busy!) two-year-old son. Their session was filled with cozy snuggles, toddler giggles, and those beautifully real in-between moments that make lifestyle newborn photography so meaningful.

          If you’re expecting or recently welcomed a baby and live in Maple Grove, Plymouth, Wayzata, or Minnetonka, this post will help you feel fully prepared for your own in-home newborn session.

          Why Choose a Lifestyle Newborn Session?

          Eagan family session in Minnesota

          Lifestyle newborn photography focuses on connection over perfection. Instead of stiff poses or heavy props, we capture your family just as you are snuggled on the couch, rocking your baby in the nursery, or soaking in those quiet moments together.

          These sessions take place in the comfort of your home, making it easier for parents (and especially siblings!) to feel relaxed.

          6 Tips to Prepare for Your Newborn Session

          1. Schedule Within the First 14 Days

          The ideal time for newborn photos is within the first two weeks after birth. Babies are still in that sleepy, snuggly stage and tend to curl up naturally.

          To make things flexible, I typically schedule two tentative dates—one before your due date and one after so we can adjust once baby arrives.

          Toddler with newborn in home session eagan, MN

          2. Keep Your Home Warm & Cozy

          A warm home helps your baby stay sleepy and comfortable throughout the session.

          I recommend setting your thermostat to around 78–80 degrees, and I often bring a small heater to keep the shooting space extra cozy. Remember your baby just came from a very warm environment, so this makes a big difference!

          Newborn session in eagan mn
          Newborn session in Minnesota

          3. Follow Baby’s Lead

          Newborn sessions are completely baby-led.

          Feeding breaks, diaper changes, soothing these are all expected and built into our time together. There’s no need to feel rushed. Some of the most meaningful images happen during these natural moments.

          Toddler and sibling in eagan MN during newborn session
          Newborn session in Minnesota

          4. Keep Props Simple & Meaningful

          I take a minimal, natural approach to props. I’ll bring a selection of neutral blankets and textures, but you’re always welcome to include:

          • A special blanket
          • A meaningful outfit
          • Headbands or simple accessories
          • Family heirlooms

          Simple always photographs beautifully and keeps the focus on your baby.

          Family with newborn in Minneapolis, MN
          Toddler at in home session in Minnesota

          5. Preparing Siblings (Especially Toddlers!)

          Including siblings—especially toddlers like Brittany & Forest’s son—adds so much personality to your session.

          A few tips:

          • Plan around nap time
          • Have snacks ready
          • Keep expectations relaxed
          • Let them come and go naturally

          Morning sessions (around 9–10am) tend to work best for young children.

          Newborn sleeping in minnesota during in home session

          6. Let the Light In

          Natural light is everything in lifestyle photography.

          We’ll typically use spaces near windows like your living room, bedroom, or nursery. You don’t need a perfectly styled home, but if you can clear a small area near a window, it’s helpful.

          Newborn Photography for Maple Grove Area Families

          If you’re located in Maple Grove, Plymouth, Wayzata, Minnetonka, or surrounding Twin Cities suburbs, I would love to document this incredibly special season for your family.

          These early days go by so quickly but the photos will bring you right back to the feeling of holding your baby in your arms.

          Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

          If you’re expecting in 2026 or recently welcomed your baby, now is the perfect time to reach out.

          I’ll guide you through the entire process so your session feels relaxed, natural, and truly reflective of your family.

          Contact me for availability and pricing, I can’t wait to meet your sweet little one.

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

            Get in touch with Karen for any questions.

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