Fall Family Photos in Minneapolis & St. Paul
Golden hour family photos that your whole family will enjoy
Lyndale Gardens and Dodge Nature Center
Our annual fall mini sessions are very popular and have become a tradition for many of my returning families, alongside our popular Tree Farm Sessions, which take place in November. Perfect for updating your family photos or creating holiday cards.
A Seamless, Fun Experience for the Whole Family
With decades of experience photographing children and families, I’ve designed every part of these sessions to be easy and stress-free. Kids genuinely enjoy them (yes, really), and parents appreciate how relaxed and efficient the process is, from easy online booking to a beautiful gallery for selecting and downloading images.
You’ll receive a session prep guide with the booking confirmation and can reach out anytime for a wardrobe consult (often, families text clothing choices, and we talk them through together).
We’ll capture a mix of posed portraits and candid moments, all set against the beautiful golden-hour light and fall colors that Minnesota is known for.
Fall Mini Session Locations
Each year, I offer sessions at a variety of outdoor locations throughout Minneapolis and the surrounding Twin Cities metro area. Some are favorites that we return to year after year. There are new additions each year to accommodate variety for returning families and the increased bookings each fall.
I have found that Dodge and Gateway park have the best early fall colors. Last year, many locations stayed green for a long time, so I've adjusted the early locations this year. Still, many locations won't have strong fall colors until mid-October. If it stays warm later into October and there are still leaves on the trees, I may add a couple more dates. Sessions can be moved at no charge upon request (some restrictions apply if requested on short notice).
Dodge Nature Center (Main Property) - West St Paul, MN
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park - Brooklyn Park, MN
French Regional Park - Plymouth, MN
Carver Park Reserve - Victoria, MN
Minnetonka Mills Park - Minnetonka, MN
Elm Creek Park Preserve - Maple Grove, MN
Dodge Nature Center (Lilly Property) - Mendota Heights, MN
We time the sessions around golden hour when the light is most flattering. The fall color, early sunsets, and crisp air combine to make these some of the most beautiful and in-demand sessions of the year.
Booking Your Fall Mini Session
Online booking is very easy! Click below, select your date and time, fill out the forms, pay the retainer, and you’re booked! The booking confirmation will include your prep guide, and you’ll receive reminder emails prior to your session.
Fall Mini Sessions are offered from late September to mid-October, and golden hour times always go first. If you’re hoping for that soft evening glow and peak fall color, it’s best to book early.
👉 Click here to view available dates and book your session
These sessions are open to families, siblings, couples, maternity, and even solo portraits. And yes, dogs are welcome at every location.
If you’re planning to book multiple mini-sessions this year, please consider the 3-mini-session package!
About Lisa - The Photographer
As a professional photographer with a background in both family and editorial photography, I bring a thoughtful and guided approach to every session. I photograph with intention, aiming to create timeless images that feel true to your family, not overly posed or overly styled. These sessions are about connection, real expressions, and beautiful light.
If you’re looking for a Minneapolis family photographer for fall minis, I’d love to work with you.
Feel free to reach out with any questions, or book your session directly here.