How to Get the Most Out of Your Outdoor Family Photo Session

Ah, the great outdoors. Home to golden light, stunning backdrops, and your toddler's sudden decision to start a rock collection mid-session. Outdoor family photo sessions can be magical, memorable, and yes—a little bit unpredictable. But with the right prep (and the right mindset), they can also be surprisingly easy.

Whether you're booking a Minnesota family photo session at the Arboretum in fall (hello, golden leaves) or chasing light across a sun-drenched park in July, here’s how to show up calm, camera-ready, and prepared to walk away with the kind of images you'll want to frame forever.

Family Photo Information

1. Let Go of the Pinterest Pressure (Real Life > Perfection)

We’ve all seen those family photo shoots that look like an Anthropologie ad had a baby with a Martha Stewart spread. Coordinated, curated, calm. Here’s the secret: real-life family sessions look a lot more like "someone just gave the toddler fruit snacks and we’re hoping for the best."

And that’s okay. In fact, it’s better than okay. It’s where the good stuff lives. The truth is, kids don’t do "posed" very well—but they do joy, curiosity, and spontaneous giggles with Oscar-worthy flair.

So, the best thing you can do? Let it breathe. Embrace the moment. Show up as your real, beautifully imperfect selves. That’s where the magic (and the keepsake-worthy images) come from.

2. Dress Like You—Only a Little Fancier

If you’re spiraling in your closet wondering if oatmeal linen or ivory cotton better reflects your "soul aesthetic," take a breath. For Minnesota family photo sessions, especially outdoors, think elevated everyday. You want to feel like you, but also like you remembered it’s a special occasion.

Here’s the formula:

Soft, neutral tones always win.
Avoid bold logos or neon colors (unless you want your photo to scream "Target endcap circa 2013").
Layers add interest and movement (think cardigans, vests, textures).
Flow and comfort beat tight and fussy every time.

And if shopping feels like one more thing you didn’t pencil into your calendar between back-to-school night and your 3rd Peloton ride this week—don’t. I have a client wardrobe curated exactly for this. Beautiful, flattering, session-tested pieces that work on camera. One less thing for your mental load.

Studio Wardrobe Available

3. The Snack Myth (Let Me Work My Magic First)

Let’s talk about snacks. Yes, they have their place—just not front and center. One of the most common derailers of a smooth session? Kids knowing the snacks are packed before we even take the first photo.

Here’s the truth: most kids can absolutely handle a 45-minute session without food. (Feed them beforehand. Problem solved.) When snacks come out too soon, we risk a sticky-handed meltdown and a face full of freeze-dried strawberries in every frame.

If you feel you must bring them, hide them. Like, MI6-level stealth. And for the love of calm sessions, please don’t mention them unless we hit true emergency territory. Let me connect with your child first—I’ve got years of experience and a near-magical ability to win them over, no bribery required.

4. Choose a Location That Does the Heavy Lifting

The beauty of booking Minnesota family photo sessions outdoors is that we’re spoiled for choice. Whether it’s the structured floral elegance of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum or the golden prairie vibes of a local nature preserve, the right location adds instant charm (and light).

Here’s what to look for:

Open shade (to avoid squinty eyes)
Texture and variety (trees, paths, wild grasses)
Easy access (you don’t want to hike a mile with a baby on your hip and a toddler making sand angels)

I know these locations like the back of my camera and can recommend seasonal sweet spots that look stunning whether it’s peak fall foliage or summer glow.

Show Up, Be Seen, Let Go

Here’s the thing about outdoor family photo sessions: they’re less about perfection and more about presence. About showing up in this season, whatever it looks like, and letting someone else do the remembering for you.

When you work with me, you’re not just getting pretty pictures. You’re getting a calm guide, a curated wardrobe, and heirloom products that turn moments into legacy. It’s a relief, really. One less thing on your plate. And way more beautiful than the digital dust collectors on your phone.

So breathe. Laugh. Let your kid chase a butterfly mid-shot. And trust that the art will follow.

Have questions? Want to share your favorite Minnesota photo location? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you.

Michele Quattrin is a Minneapolis-based photographer who specializes in motherhood, newborn, and family photography that turns fleeting moments into tangible heirlooms. With over 15 years of experience and plenty of toddler negotiations under her belt, she brings a calm presence to every session. Whether she’s capturing golden hour at the Arboretum or documenting the chaos and charm of a busy young family, Michele is known for her clean, timeless style and full-service approach. She offers wardrobe guidance, expert direction, and beautifully printed artwork that transforms everyday connection into legacy. When she’s not behind the camera, she’s probably sipping coffee, dodging snowstorms, or editing photos with her loyal dog nearby.

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