Twin Cities Photography Studio | MQN Studio August Updates

Your Go-To Twin Cities Photography Studio Just Got a Little More Magical

Let’s be honest—when was the last time you actually read a studio update and thought, Wow, this was worth my time? Well, challenge accepted.

If you’re new here—welcome! And if you’re a regular around these parts (hi again!), this is your friendly nudge to come see what’s been happening inside my Twin Cities photography studio lately. Spoiler: it’s not just new props and a fresh vacuumed rug. Though yes, that happened too.

Between sessions, I’ve been rearranging, refreshing, and saying things like “What if we moved this over there?” at least fifteen times. The result? A cozier, more functional space that’s still flooded with all that natural light you know and love. The new window seat (we’ll talk about her in a minute) might be stealing the show these days—but we’ll let her. She deserves it.

This blog is part behind-the-scenes, part future sneak peek, and part helpful resource if you’ve been eyeing the studio for your own shoot—or maybe even thinking of renting it. Whether you’re planning your baby’s first photo session or just need a clean, bright space to photograph your boutique’s holiday line, I’ve got you covered.

So if you’re here for updates, awkwardly sweet dad moments, styling ideas, or just want the scoop on when holiday minis are going live… grab your coffee and settle in. My studio might look calm and white-walled, but behind the scenes? It’s got stories to tell.

Window Seat(ish): How IKEA, Back Pain, and a Newborn Beanbag Sparked a Studio Update

Look, I wasn’t planning to create a “window seat moment” at my Twin Cities photography studio. It wasn’t on a vision board. It wasn’t in a Pinterest folder. It was, in true me fashion, a spontaneous stroke of genius born out of… back pain.

I was setting up for a newborn session, eyeing the beanbag and thinking, There has got to be a better way. So I dragged over what used to be my son’s old IKEA Lego organizers (because yes, those are still kicking around) and plopped the beanbag on top. Instant lift. My back rejoiced.

Then I noticed something: those floor cushions I keep around for toddlers? They fit perfectly on top. And just like that, my makeshift bench didn’t look like a last-minute hack. It looked… intentional. So I slid it under the windows, added a pillow or two, and decided we’re calling it a window seat now. Why not?

To be clear, no one’s actually used it yet besides me and a very enthusiastic four-year-old. But it’s there. It’s solid. It photographs surprisingly well. And if you rent the studio—or come in for a session—you might find yourself cozying up there before you realize what hit you.

So no, it’s not a custom built-in. It’s not handcrafted from reclaimed barn wood. But it is one more thing that makes this Twin Cities photography studio feel like a space that works—for you, for me, and for every squishy newborn I’m about to photograph without destroying my lumbar spine.

Coming up next: the maternity dress that showed up late but still insists on being the main character.

The Dress That Missed Her Cue (But She’s Ready for Her Close-Up Now)

This beauty? She was supposed to be the one. I ordered her weeks before a maternity session that had a very specific vision—soft, romantic, with just the right amount of texture and movement. The plan? This dress, a mama-to-be glowing in front of the big windows at my Twin Cities photography studio, and maybe a little breeze from the fan for drama. We were going full editorial.

And then… she ghosted.

Okay, technically the shipping company ghosted. She sat in some warehouse, living her best delayed life, and didn’t show up until after the session. Fashionably late doesn’t even begin to cover it.

But now that she’s here? Oh, she’s forgiven. Layers of soft pleats, the dreamiest off-the-shoulder sleeves, and a smocked bodice that somehow flatters everyone. She’s lightweight but full of texture, which means she photographs beautifully without swallowing the person wearing her.

Whether you're pregnant, snuggling a baby during a family session, or just want to feel extra fabulous while your toddler wipes graham cracker dust on your leg, she’s ready for you.

You’ll find her in the studio wardrobe now, hanging quietly in the corner, probably still a little smug about making an entrance. But honestly? If you’re going to be late, at least show up looking like this.

And speaking of showing up—next I’m sharing a sweet moment you didn’t see from a recent newborn session. Let’s just say it involved a dad, a toddler, and a very spontaneous round of Ring Around the Rosie.

The Studio Wardrobe

Ring Around the Rosie, a Newborn, and the Kind of Moment You Can’t Plan For

There’s something about toddlers in the studio that keeps you on your toes—and also occasionally on the floor. Case in point: during a recent newborn session, while mom and baby were snuggled up on the bed, dad decided to keep big brother entertained. Enter: an impromptu game of Ring Around the Rosie right in the middle of my Twin Cities photography studio.

No choreography. No warning. Just two guys spinning in circles, giggling, until they collapsed in a heap of joy and exhaustion. (One of them may have landed on a cushion. The other one, I’ll let you guess.)

Naturally, I was already mid-crouch with the camera, so I caught it all.

These are the moments I never try to manufacture—but always hope for. There’s no styling guide in the world that can prep a family for this kind of real-life sweetness. A dad willing to play, a toddler totally in his element, and a quiet newborn snuggled up with mom like, “This family is wild but I guess I’m here for it.”

The images? Dad and son playing, mom and baby beautiful.

If you’re planning a session here—or thinking about renting the studio—this is your reminder that magic lives in the unplanned. Let your kids take the lead, trust the process, and don’t be afraid to look a little silly. (Seriously, we’ve all done the fall-down part.)

Next up: Yes, it’s holiday mini session talk. Yes, it’s still summer. And no, I’m not sorry.

Curious what goes on behind the scenes at a Twin Cities photo studio? Here’s your peek—plus tips for what to wear, how to book, and where to sit (literally).

Studio renters and photo session clients—this blog post covers it all. Holiday minis, styling boards, rental FAQs, and the bench that started it all.

Information on Newborn Photos

Christmas in July (Well, August... But You Get the Idea)

Is it too early to talk about holiday photos? Probably. Am I doing it anyway? Absolutely. Because the truth is, if you blink, it’ll be October, and you’ll be elbow-deep in Halloween candy wondering how it’s already snowing. So let’s just lean into it, shall we?

Holiday photo season at my Twin Cities photography studio is basically a tiny (slightly chaotic) miracle. Every year, I host a handful of studio holiday mini sessions—and spoiler alert: they book fast. Like, Target-Christmas-pajamas-on-release-day fast.

So here’s the scoop. This year, holiday minis will be offered on select weekdays in November and December only. Yep, weekday sessions. Why? Because weekends in the fall are bananas. Between full sessions, family obligations, and the general frenzy that is “Mom, where’s my snow boot?”, weekday minis give us the breathing room we all need.

The setup will be simple, warm, and clean—just like the studio itself. If you’ve been here before, you know the vibe. If you haven’t? Picture natural light, neutral backdrops, and setups that don’t make you cringe in five years. You’ll get a gallery of images that feel elevated but still playful—perfect for your holiday cards, gifts for grandparents, or just something to hang on your wall so you can say, “Yes, we did it. We survived the holidays. Here’s proof.”

And yes, I’ll be styling the set in a way that works with a variety of wardrobe choices. Whether you want cozy knits or something a little dressier, you’ll get an outfit board to help guide you.

If you’re a returning client, you’ll get first dibs when sessions open. And if you’re new around here? Now is the time to get on my email list so you don’t miss the launch.

And if you’re eyeing the studio for your own holiday minis? Rent it. Seriously. The space is light, bright, and designed to work with simple props or no props at all. Whether you’re photographing families, branding clients, or launching a cozy holiday product line, the setup is as flexible as you need it to be.

The vibe is “intentional but easy,” which also happens to describe most of my clients’ holiday survival strategies. You bring the joy (or at least the semi-coordinated outfits), and I’ll bring the space—and maybe a reminder that you don’t need to do everything this season. Just enough to make it meaningful.

So yes, we’re talking about December in August. Blame the Target dollar section or the fact that the studio is already filling up. Either way, now’s the time.

Next: a peek at the styling board and how to keep your outfit stress levels below “I guess we’re all just wearing pajamas.”

Holiday Mini Information

Styling Sneak Peek: What to Wear Without Stressing Out

Let’s talk outfits. Because nothing brings on the “should we just cancel?” energy faster than trying to coordinate a whole family’s wardrobe the night before your photo session.

Good news: you don’t have to do that.

Here’s a sneak peek of the current style board I’ve put together for studio sessions—including this year’s holiday minis at my Twin Cities photography studio. The palette is clean, soft, and super forgiving. Think creamy whites, cozy knits, dusty blues, and warm neutrals. Basically, it’s the opposite of bold prints and neon headbands (sorry, 2011).

There’s something here for everyone:

A beautiful checked midi dress for mom that can easily go barefoot or dressed up with heels.
Classic loafers and a clean crew neck sweater for dad.
Textured knits, peter pan collars, and sweet mary janes for the little ones.

The vibe? Effortlessly pulled together, not trying-too-hard. You could show up wearing any combo from this board and still look like you all belong in a magazine—or at least on Grandma’s fridge.

Bottom line: I want you to walk into your session feeling great, not flustered. The outfits shouldn’t be the hard part. Getting a toddler into shoes? Now that’s the real challenge.

Renting the Studio? Here's What You Need to Know (FAQ Time!)

Whether you’re a fellow photographer, a small brand looking for a clean space to shoot your latest collection, or just someone who saw a cute corner on Instagram and thought “I need that”—you can rent my Twin Cities photography studio. And yes, it really is as bright and calm in person as it looks in the photos.

If you’re new to renting, or just wondering what you’re signing up for, here’s a little FAQ roundup to help:

What’s included with the rental?
You’ll have access to both sides of the studio—the all-white side and the blue lime-washed wall with wood floors. Natural light pours in from the big windows, and there are a few stools, benches, throws, and neutral props available for use. Need to move things around? Go for it. Just put them back when you’re done.

Can I bring my own props or setup?
Yes! Just keep it clean and damage-free. No confetti, glitter, or anything that’s still going to be there when the next person walks in. (Respect the sparkle, leave the sparkle at home.)

How do I book?
Studio rentals are handled through Peerspace—or feel free to DM me for the link.

Basically, it’s a space that works as hard as you do. Just add your people (or products), and let the light do the rest.

Studio Rental

What’s Coming Up Next at MQN Photography

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations—you’re officially caught up on all the new, functional, slightly accidental upgrades happening inside my favorite light-filled corner of the Twin Cities. But you know me… I’m already thinking three steps ahead.

Coming up next? Fall sessions are in full swing. The calendar is moving, and while I wish I could clone myself (or at least pause time), I highly recommend reaching out sooner than later if you’re hoping for one of those golden hour family sessions or a studio maternity shoot before baby makes their debut.

And yes, I’m still adding to the studio wardrobe. Because somehow, there’s always one more perfect knit romper or dress with sleeves that make everyone feel like royalty. (Even if they’re wearing dry shampoo and haven't had a full meal since breakfast.)

I’m also working behind the scenes on some studio updates that I’m not quite ready to share—but let’s just say they involve making your experience even easier. Think less stress, more “Oh wow, this was actually fun.”

And because I know many of you are planners, keep an eye out for upcoming blog posts with helpful resources:

My favorite locations for outdoor sessions
What to wear when your kids only want to wear Paw Patrol
And yes, a full post on holiday card photo tips that don’t involve bribery (because we’re better than that… mostly)

So whether you’re booking your first session, renting the studio for your own brand, or just here for the behind-the-scenes updates—I’m glad you’re here.

Now go take a breath. Because yes, the holidays are coming. But we’ve got this.

Let’s Make It Happen

Whether you're planning a newborn session, renting the space for your own shoot, or thinking “maybe this is the year we actually get the holiday card out before January,” you’re in the right place.

My Twin Cities photography studio is built for real families, real businesses, and real life—with just enough clean lines and soft light to make everything look like you have it all together. (No judgment if you showed up in slippers and changed in the parking lot. Truly.)

Here’s what to do next:

Booking a photo session? Head to the Contact page and let me know what you’re dreaming up. I’ll take it from there.
Interested in renting the studio? You can check availability and book here, or shoot me a message if you have questions.
Want first dibs on holiday minis, styling boards, and studio updates? Join the email list. I don’t send spam. Just the good stuff—early booking, sneak peeks, and occasional "this just in" dress arrivals.

The studio’s always evolving, but the goal stays the same: to make your photo experience feel a little easier, a lot more beautiful, and (hopefully) something you actually look forward to.

See you in the studio—floor cushions, window seat, and all.

Michele is the photographer, studio owner, back pain workaround expert, and creative mind behind MQN Photography—a Twin Cities photography studio known for its light-filled space, laid-back sessions, and honest approach to capturing families as they are. With over 15 years of experience, Michele creates an environment where parents can relax, toddlers can be themselves, and the unexpected moments often turn into the most-loved photos.

When she’s not photographing families, babies, or helping fellow creatives bring their vision to life in her Northeast Minneapolis studio, you’ll probably find her rearranging the furniture (again), adding to the studio wardrobe, or planning something fun like a holiday mini session before August is even over. She believes great photos don’t require perfection—just good light, a little play, and someone behind the camera who knows when to click.

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