White Bear Lake Family & Newborn Photographer

Photographs That Feel Like Home — Your White Bear Lake Family Photographer

Whether you're cozied up in your lakeside home, wandering the trails at Tamarack, or splashing in the shallows at sunrise, White Bear Lake is full of magic for families. I specialize in capturing maternity, newborn, milestone, and family photography that’s timeless, natural, and deeply connected. My cozy studio isn’t far from here in Northeast Minneapolis, and if you’re a local, I promise you’ll find the perfect balance of ease and artistry with every session.

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Photo Session Locations In and Around White Bear Lake

Life in White Bear Lake has a way of feeling like a permanent vacation—especially when your backyard includes the lake itself. So many families here enjoy lake living at home: private docks, quiet mornings by the water, kids playing barefoot in the yard. That’s not just a beautiful lifestyle—it’s a dream setting for your family photos.

If you have lake access at home, we’ll absolutely take advantage of it. Your shoreline, your boat, your backyard at golden hour—it’s all personal, and that makes the images even more meaningful.

Looking for something beyond your own backyard? Tamarack Nature Center offers open trails and natural beauty just minutes away. And don’t forget the charm of downtown White Bear Lake—with its lakeside views, small-town feel, and walkable streets, it’s a favorite for good reason.

And just around the corner, Dellwood offers even more beautiful backdrops. Whether it’s tree-lined streets, elegant homes, or quiet parks, this neighboring community adds an elevated, serene feel that photographs beautifully.

Wherever we shoot, your session will be relaxed, meaningful, and full of connection—just like life here in White Bear Lake.

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Maternity Photography

Simple, Stunning Maternity Sessions for Moms in White Bear Lake

Most of my maternity sessions take place in my Northeast Minneapolis studio—it’s quiet, easy, and set up with natural light and a curated wardrobe of bump-friendly dresses that actually fit and flatter. But if you're local to White Bear Lake or nearby Dellwood, we can absolutely explore outdoor options too.

Whether it’s a peaceful sunset along the water, the trails around Tamarack Nature Center, or even your own backyard with a view of the lake, we’ll create something simple and meaningful. You don’t need to overthink a thing—I'll guide you through it all so you can just show up and feel good.

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Newborn Photography

For the Moments You’ll Never Get Back (and Never Want To)

Newborn photography is about more than just the baby. It’s about the quiet chaos, the sleepy snuggles, and the soft spaces where your new life is unfolding. Whether you’re curled up in your Dellwood living room or rocking your little one near the lake in White Bear Lake, these sessions are designed to be calm and unhurried.

I photograph newborns in my studio in Northeast Minneapolis, but many White Bear Lake families choose in-home sessions. The light-filled nurseries, cozy couches, and lakeside docks create the kind of personal, meaningful setting that makes your images feel like you.

You’ll have full access to my curated wardrobe of soft wraps, cozy blankets, and classic clothing for your baby. There are options for parents and siblings too, so no one has to stress over what to wear.

Because this season may be a blur, but your photos will help you remember what it felt like.

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Baby Milestone Sessions

Because Babyhood Deserves More Than Just a Phone Snap

From gummy grins to wobbly stands and chubby little hands clapping with pride, milestone sessions celebrate all the little things that feel big. These sessions usually take place in my natural light studio in Northeast Minneapolis, where everything is ready and waiting—no need to clean your house or chase good lighting.

That said, if you want to bring the celebration closer to home, we can absolutely discuss options. Maybe your White Bear Lake backyard is the perfect spot, or your Dellwood home has a sun-drenched space that feels just right.

Whether we’re capturing tummy time, first steps, or a cake smash to mark the big ONE, you’ll have access to my wardrobe of neutral, timeless outfits for babies and toddlers. You can also use my monthly outfit boards if you prefer to dress your little one yourself.

These sessions are playful and relaxed, and perfect for documenting growth in a way that still feels like your family.

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Family Photography

The Kind of Photos You’ll Actually Want on Your Walls

Family photo sessions in and around White Bear Lake are all about connection. We’ll laugh, explore, and let the kids lead a little—because that’s usually where the magic happens. Whether you’re strolling through downtown White Bear with an ice cream cone, cozying up lakeside in Dellwood, or just enjoying the view from your own backyard dock, we’ll choose a setting that feels like you.

White Bear Lake is packed with personality. From lake homes with private shoreline access to charming parks and trails, we’ll find a location that fits your family’s vibe—no forced smiles required.

These sessions are relaxed and kid-friendly, with just enough direction to get those frame-worthy shots while still letting everyone be themselves.

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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.

I have more questions

Stories from Behind the Lens

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

Ready to book your White Bear Lake 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.

Download the Guide