St. Paul Family & Newborn Photographer

Simple, Sentimental, and St. Paul Through and Through

There’s something special about raising a family in St. Paul. Maybe it’s the close-knit neighborhoods, the first steps taken on Summit Avenue sidewalks, or the way the city glows in the fall. I photograph newborns, babies, and families all over the Twin Cities, but there’s something about St. Paul sessions that always feel a little extra meaningful. Whether you're curled up at home with your brand-new baby or wandering through your favorite park together, I’ll help you capture the season you’re in—with calm energy, a curated wardrobe, and beautiful images to match.

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Photo Session Locations In and Around St. Paul

St. Paul offers a blend of elegance, charm, and natural beauty—ideal for creating timeless family portraits. Whether you're dreaming of tree-lined paths or historic architecture, we'll find the perfect spot for your session.

Como Park remains a go-to for its open space, soft light, and versatile backdrops. Families from Mac-Groveland, Summit Hill, and Highland Park often love staying close to home in their beautiful neighborhoods. If you’re drawn to an upscale urban feel, Cathedral Hill and Lowertown offer stunning architecture and quiet corners that photograph beautifully.

Looking for something more private? Your own backyard in St. Anthony Park or Crocus Hill might just be the perfect setting. I also regularly work with families in nearby areas like Mendota Heights and Sunfish Lake—both serene and upscale, with scenic views to match.

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Maternity Photography

Because This Moment Deserves More Than a Self-Timer

Whether you're in the final stretch or just beginning to show, maternity sessions are all about connection and anticipation. I work with families all across St. Paul—from the cobblestone streets of Cathedral Hill to the leafy paths of Summit Hill—to create portraits that feel like you, just a little more polished.

Sessions are relaxed and styled with intention. You’ll have access to my studio wardrobe (including elegant dresses that actually flatter), and I’ll guide you through everything from outfit selection to location ideas. If you prefer indoor comfort, my Northeast Minneapolis studio is always an option too—especially popular for winter babies.

These photos are a love letter to the journey you’re on. You don’t need to plan it all out or know how to pose. You just need to show up—I'll handle the rest.

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Newborn Photography

The Early Days Are a Blur—Let’s Make Sure They’re Not Forgotten

Newborn sessions are slow, cozy, and all about connection. I photograph families in my Northeast Minneapolis studio, at home across St. Paul, and even in the hospital for Fresh 48 sessions at places like United Hospital, Regions Hospital, and Children’s Minnesota – St. Paul.

Whether you’re nestled into your light-filled living room in Mac-Groveland, welcoming your baby in Highland Park, or meeting me in studio for a simple, timeless setup, we’ll make sure the photos reflect the calm and love of those early days.

You’ll have access to my thoughtfully curated wardrobe—wraps and onesies for baby, dresses and shirts for you and your partner, and outfits for siblings too. All the planning guides and prep help are included, so you’ll never feel like you're winging it.

The newborn stage is fleeting, but these images will anchor your memories. Let’s make sure they’re honest, beautiful, and full of feeling.

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Baby Milestone Sessions

Babyhood Doesn’t Come with a Pause Button

From first smiles to first steps, these sessions celebrate the sweet, silly, and surprising moments that happen between newborn and toddlerhood. Milestone sessions take place in my Northeast Minneapolis studio, just a short drive from Summit Hill, Cathedral Hill, West 7th, and other St. Paul neighborhoods.

These sessions are short, simple, and totally baby-led. You’ll have access to a curated wardrobe for baby and optional looks for parents too. I’ll guide you every step of the way—no need to stress about naps, outfits, or how to get a gummy grin. (I’ve been doing this for 15+ years.)

Whether you’re planning a 6-month session, a 1st birthday, or a cake smash (cake not included, but clean-up is!), we’ll document your baby’s personality before it changes again.

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Family Photography

Your Life, Beautifully Photographed

Your family doesn’t need to be perfectly posed to be perfectly photographed. My sessions are playful, flexible, and centered on connection. I photograph families all over St. Paul—from the charming sidewalks of Mac-Groveland to the open trails of Hidden Falls Regional Park, Como Park, and the green spaces tucked into neighborhoods like Summit Hill and St. Anthony Park.

Sessions are typically scheduled in the evening for that soft golden light (yes, it’s worth keeping the kids up a little later). I’ll help you choose the best location, whether you're after tall grasses, fall leaves, or a spot that just feels like home.

From wardrobe styling to toddler wrangling—I’ve got you. Your only job is to show up and love on your people.

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Styling Support (Yes, It’s Included)

You know what’s worse than trying to take your own family photos? Trying to dress everyone for them. That’s why I make styling easy, so you don’t spend your week panic-scrolling through online returns or arguing over whether your toddler can wear light-up sneakers.

Every session comes with access to my curated studio wardrobe, which includes dresses for moms, outfits for babies and young kids, and clean, classic shirts for dads. If you’d rather wear your own pieces, I send out a monthly Looks Book filled with clickable outfit inspiration that actually works in real life and photographs beautifully.

The goal isn’t to match. It’s to look cohesive, comfortable, and like you made a really excellent decision without lifting a finger. And yes, I’ll tell you if something isn’t working before the session. That’s part of the magic.

You deserve to feel amazing in these photos. And honestly? That starts with what you’re wearing.

Studio Wardrobe

What to Expect

Once you’ve reached out, I’ll walk you through the entire process step by step. You’ll receive the invoice for the creative fee along with the session agreement, and then everything you need to start planning. I’ll send over detailed guides that cover what to wear, how to prep, and what to bring.

If your session is in the studio, you’ll choose outfits from the client wardrobe once you arrive. For on-location sessions, you’re welcome to schedule a wardrobe consultation ahead of time so we can plan the details before the day of your session.

Sessions themselves are relaxed and child-led. That means we follow their lead and leave space for snacks, breaks, and the occasional meltdown. I’ll guide you the whole way with calm direction, gentle posing, and a few silly tricks up my sleeve.

Afterward, you’ll receive a curated slideshow of images to view at home. Once you select a collection, you’ll have 30 days to choose your final images and use your print credit toward beautiful products in your gallery store.

It’s a thoughtful, flexible experience built around real family life.

The mQn Photography Experience

Why Families Keep Coming Back

You’re not looking for someone to just take photos. You’re looking for someone who can capture what your family feels like. The moments that happen when your toddler forgets the camera is there. The way your baby fits on your chest right now. The look your partner gives you when no one’s watching—but I am.

I’ve been photographing families for over 15 years, and the one thing I know for sure? No two are the same. That’s why my approach is never one-size-fits-all. We plan ahead, we keep things flexible, and we create space for connection, not perfection.

Whether you’re walking into my studio for the first time or emailing me for our fifth session together, my goal is the same. To help you feel seen, supported, and actually excited to be in front of the camera.

I’m Michele. I’m a photographer, a mom, and someone who understands how quickly it all moves. You don’t need to have it all together. You just need to show up. I’ll take it from there.

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Maternity to milestones—MQN Photography helps Minnetonka families create meaningful portraits that capture this season of life in the most beautiful way.

Whether it’s your baby’s first portraits or a fall family session at Big Willow Park, MQN Photography is Minnetonka’s go-to for natural photography.

The Details You Didn’t Know You Needed

How far in advance should I book?: I recommend reaching out at least 1–3 months in advance, especially for fall and newborn sessions, which fill quickly.
What if my kids don’t cooperate?: They’re kids. That’s the point. Sessions are flexible and child-led, which means we work with their mood—not against it.
Do I need to choose the location?: Studio sessions take place in my natural light studio in Northeast Minneapolis. If you’re booking an in-home session, we’ll just want to make sure your space gets plenty of natural light. For outdoor sessions, I’ll help you choose the best option based on your preferences, and I’ll send over a detailed location guide to make the decision even easier.
Can I use your wardrobe if we’re not in the studio?: Yes, you can. Just let me know in advance which pieces you’d like me to bring to your session. If you’re planning an on-location session and want help deciding, you’re welcome to schedule a wardrobe consultation ahead of time to make selections and get styling advice.
How long does it take to get my photos?: You’ll receive a curated slideshow of your images within three weeks of your session. The slideshow will be available for 24 hours, and during that time, you’ll choose your collection. Once your collection is selected, you’ll have 30 days to finalize your image choices and use your print credit in your gallery store. The 30-day deadline is firm, as it helps you make your purchase decisions while the session is still fresh and before life gets in the way.
Do you include the cake for cake smash sessions?: I don’t provide the cake, mostly because of food allergies and sensitivities. Every family has different preferences and dietary needs, and it’s safest and easiest for you to choose something that works for your child. Whether it’s homemade, bakery-made, or a fruit pile shaped like a cake, it’s totally up to you. I’ll take care of the cleanup—no matter how messy things get.

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Ready to book your St. Paul photo session?

If you’re hoping for clean, connected, and beautifully styled portraits that feel like your family, not a performance, I’d love to work with you. Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, documenting that wild first year, or gathering everyone for an updated family photo, I’ll help make the process feel doable and worth it.

Sessions fill quickly, especially in the fall. It is always a good idea to start planning early.

Click below to inquire, ask questions, or say hello. I will guide you through everything from wardrobe to gallery delivery. You do not need to overthink it. Just reach out. I will take it from there.

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Get the Real, Relaxed, Remembered Guide

Not sure where to start? This free guide walks you through exactly how to plan a photo session that feels natural, looks elevated, and actually works for your real life.

Inside, you’ll find tips on what to wear, how to prep your kids (without bribes), session-day do’s and don’ts, and what makes the difference between photos that look nice… and ones that mean something.

Whether you’re planning maternity photos in the studio, a newborn session at Fairview Southdale, or a fall family session in the park, this guide will help you walk in feeling confident and ready.

Grab your copy below and take the first step toward photos that feel like you—only better lit.

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