Everything You Need to Know About Outdoor Mini Sessions

When fall rolls around in Minnesota, families scramble for sweaters, football schedules, and—let’s be honest—pumpkin spice everything. But if you’re also hoping to squeeze in updated family photos without wrangling your kids for an hour (because we all know how that goes), Outdoor Mini Sessions might just be your new best friend.

These sessions are short, sweet, and designed to capture your family at their best without dragging things out. Here’s everything you need to know before you grab a spot.

What Exactly Is an Outdoor Mini Session?

Think of Outdoor Mini Sessions as the “express lane” of family photography. They’re quick, efficient, and get you in and out without the time commitment of a full session. But here’s the catch: they only work if your family works well with that format.

Here’s what’s included:

A 15-minute outdoor session (yes, your toddler might handle that—unless they don’t warm up to strangers. Stranger danger is real, and I’ve had kids cry the entire 15 minutes. If that sounds like your child, a signature session is hands-down the better fit. You know your kid).
Styling support to help your family look polished and cohesive. You’ll get my Looks Book guide, but unlike signature sessions, wardrobe access isn’t included here.
A curated online gallery with the best of the best images
5 high-resolution digital images to download.
A $75 print credit toward heirloom-quality products.
The option to upgrade to your full gallery if you just can’t narrow it down (spoiler: most families don’t).

Mini sessions are appealing because they’re shorter and less expensive—but sometimes, the investment in a longer session is worth it. If you want time for your kids to warm up, outfit changes, or access to my client wardrobe, a signature session will give you a much better experience.

Information on Family Sessions

Where Do These Outdoor Mini Sessions Take Place?

All mini sessions are held at hand-picked spots within 5 miles of North Oaks, chosen for their golden light, charm, and convenience. Options include:

Hill Farm – classic, timeless backdrop with the red barn.
Pleasant Lake – best scheduled close to sunset for gorgeous light.
Mary Hill Park – trees, trails, and plenty of variety.
North Oaks Trails – natural paths that feel like a mini adventure.
Tamarack Nature Center – peaceful and woodsy (note: no pets allowed).
Kavan Family Christmas Tree Farm – festive and cozy, perfect as the holidays approach.

Mini sessions are typically on select weekdays in November, with occasional last-minute September and October dates announced if they become available. Families can opt in to be notified about those—but they’re never guaranteed.

Who Outdoor Mini Sessions Do Work For

Families who just want a quick seasonal update for their holiday cards.
Kids who warm up quickly and don’t need much time to get comfortable.
Parents who want professional images but can only spare 15 minutes.

If that’s you, mini sessions are great. If you want something more relaxed, personalized, or flexible, you’ll be happier with a signature or petite studio session.

How to Prepare for Outdoor Mini Sessions

Since mini sessions are short, a little prep goes a long way:

Coordinate, don’t match. Choose complementary colors and textures that feel like your family, but skip the identical outfits.
Arrive early. With just 15 minutes, we start right on time—and every minute matters.
Keep kids comfortable. Make sure they’re fed, rested, and dressed in weather-appropriate layers so they’re ready to go.

And remember: perfection isn’t the goal. Real family connections (and even a little chaos) always make the best photos.

The mQn Experience

FAQ About Outdoor Mini Sessions

1. What should we wear for outdoor mini sessions?

Stick to neutrals and soft tones. Avoid neon colors or bold logos that distract from your family’s connection. I’ll send you my Looks Book guide so you’re not guessing.

2. What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Minnesota weather is unpredictable. If it rains, snows, or gets unreasonably cold, your session will be rescheduled to the next available date. Flexibility is part of the deal.

3. How many people can be included in a mini session?

Mini sessions are designed for immediate families. If you’re hoping to include grandparents, cousins, or extended family, you’ll need a signature session.

Is an Outdoor Mini Session Right for You?

Mini sessions are quick, fun, and convenient—but they’re not for everyone. If you want more time, more variety, or the full styling experience, a signature or petite session is the better investment.

👉 Ready to book your Outdoor Mini Session—or interested in learning more about your other options? Click here for details.

Michele Quattrin is the photographer behind mQn Photography, based in Northeast Minneapolis and serving families throughout the Twin Cities. With more than 15 years of experience photographing families, newborns, and milestones, Michele has built a reputation for images that are classic, natural, and genuinely reflect each family’s story.

She’s also not one to sugarcoat it—Michele will be the first to tell you that mini sessions aren’t always the right fit (and she’s okay with that). Her goal is to help families choose the session that works best for them, whether it’s a quick outdoor mini for holiday cards or a signature session with time to settle in, explore, and capture more variety.

When she’s not behind the camera, Michele is busy raising two kids, running her studio wardrobe, and scouting out the best Twin Cities locations with that perfect golden light.

GET IN TOUCH

0 Comments

Turning your Minnesota family photos into a wall gallery that actually goes with your living room? Yes please. Here's how families in Edina, St. Paul, and beyond are decorating with meaning—without a single frame from a big-box store.

From Family Photos to Wall Gallery: How Minnesota Families Are Decorating With Meaning

August 3, 2025

Planning fall pictures with your family? Here’s what really happens—plus outfit tips, FAQs, and where to go in Minnesota for the best fall colors.

Inside a Fall Family Session: Prep, Wardrobe, and What Really Happens

July 30, 2025

In-Home Lifestyle Session North Oaks, Minnesota . Minneapolis Photographer

March 26, 2021

Boys at the Barn

November 8, 2018