Quick Answer
Minimalist approach to newborns means keeping the session simple, calm, and centered on your baby and your family. As a Minneapolis newborn photographer, I use a baby led approach that allows room for feeding, soothing, and natural connection without forcing poses or rushing the session.
A Little Bit About a Newborn Session

Michele offers 3 types of newborn sessions Fresh 48, Studio and In-Home Lifestyle. All newborn sessions are baby-led and lifestyle in nature. Petite sessions are only done in the studio and will focus on capturing your baby whether they are asleep or not for 30 minutes. This may include more images of you holding baby if baby is fussy and not wanting to be out of your arms. The signature newborn session is going to give you all the images you want. There is no time limit so we can take breaks to feed baby and console if needed. Studio wardrobe is available.
What to Expect Before the Session
Whether the session is to take place on-location or in my studio , I will take few moments to get to know you and your baby / children. We will discuss again the main goal of the session , what images you want captured , if you have any special props you want included in the photos etc. Please have baby wrapped in a blanket or a white onesie with side snaps so we don’t have to disturb baby by taking something off over the head.
During the Session
Please be prepared for the session to last even up to 2-3 hours as I do not like to rush the baby and will allow as many breaks for feeding/changes as needed. Usually sessions take just over an hour though. Ideally make sure you feed the baby prior to the session as well . During the studio session if baby is asleep I will begin by photographing baby alone using any blankets or props that you have brought along. We will then move along to family photos with baby. Accidents happen so if I get peed or poo’d on or my blankets do, please don’t worry about it! It’s all part of my job and it wouldn’t be the first time it’s happened!

After the Session
After the session I will carefully select and edit your images. Approximately 2 weeks after your photo session, you will receive your own password protected gallery where you can view and choose your favorites we and if you want we can meet in person to place your order but this is not mandatory. Orders can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of products you order. I will send you an e-mail to let you know when your order is ready and to arrange a time for the order to be delivered to you.


Studio Wardrobe What to Wear
I love baby in white. A white onesie, a white swaddle or white bodysuit. I love neutrals and you should wear colors that match your décor of your home. But with newborns I always think pastels work better than bold bright colors. If you would like to borrow a dress from my studio wardrobe please let me know 3-4 dresses from the website that you would like to try and I’ll bring them with me to your session. Dad’s always look great in plain t-shirts or long sleeved henley type shirts or sweaters.

Ready to schedule your Newborn Session

A Little About Maternity Sessions
The same simple, connection focused style behind my minimalist approach to newborns also shapes my maternity sessions. Maternity sessions are available as a 30 minute Petite Session or a longer Signature Session, and both include access to the studio wardrobe.
A Petite Maternity Session is a good fit when you want a smaller collection with one outfit and a simple focus on you and your pregnancy. A Signature Maternity Session allows time for outfit changes and is the better choice when you would like to include your partner or children.
When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
The thoughtful planning behind my minimalist approach to newborns begins before your baby arrives. Maternity sessions are typically scheduled between 28 and 34 weeks, when your belly is beautifully defined but you are still likely to feel comfortable moving and posing.
Every pregnancy is different, so we can choose the timing that feels best for you. I recommend reserving your session two to three months in advance to give you the best selection of available dates.

The Day of the Session
The calm styling behind my minimalist approach to newborns also guides the way I photograph maternity sessions. When you arrive, we will look through the studio wardrobe and choose the dress or dresses that photograph best and feel most comfortable. If your partner or children are joining you, I will help coordinate their clothing as well.
Petite maternity sessions last 30 minutes and work well when you want a simple collection with one outfit. Signature maternity sessions allow more time for outfit changes, family photographs, and younger children who may need a little time to settle in. I will guide you throughout the session, so you do not need to worry about posing or watching the clock.
After the Session
The same minimalist approach to newborns carries through the editing and ordering process. I carefully select and edit the strongest images from your maternity session so the final gallery feels cohesive and focused.
About two weeks after your session, you will receive a slideshow of your images to view for 24 hours. Once you choose your collection, your gallery will open for 30 days so you can select your included digital images, download them, and use any available print credit toward albums, framed artwork, or other finished pieces.

Hair and Makeup: How to Prepare
The simple styling behind my minimalist approach to newborns also works beautifully for maternity portraits. Professional hair and makeup are optional, but they can help you feel polished and confident during your session. I am happy to recommend trusted local artists if you need help finding someone.
It is also a good idea to give your nails a little attention before the session. Your hands will appear in many of the photographs as you hold or rest them on your belly.
What to Wear
The same minimalist approach to newborns also guides how I style maternity sessions. Simple, neutral clothing keeps the focus on you, your family, and the connection between you.
My studio wardrobe is available to maternity clients, though you are always welcome to wear something of your own. Soft neutrals and muted colors photograph beautifully and help create images that feel natural in your home. Since these photographs may eventually become framed artwork, it is helpful to choose colors that complement your décor.
When your partner or children are joining the session, I will help you coordinate everyone so the clothing works together without looking overly matched.
Ready to Schedule your Maternity Session
See More . . .
Minneapolis Maternity & Newborn Photographer
Today I also want to share with you a Charlotte Branding Photographer & Lifestyle Headshot Photography who is talking about lifestyle branding photography and why it’s important for small businesses. Be sure to click the link and check it out.
Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer in North Oaks & Minneapolis Minnesota. She photographs children and their families both on location and in her studio located in Northeast Minneapolis. mQn Photography is a boutique luxury family photographer in the Twin Cities. Specializing in maternity, newborn, baby and all things motherhood. To schedule your next session with Michele please visit mQn Photography | Minneapolis Photographer or e-mail michele@mqnphotography.com
Michele loves giving back and she provides free photography for families living in the NICU. To request a session please apply directly by submitting a form through https://www.mqnphotography.com/nicu
Michele also specializes in Fresh 48 photography sessions in local Minneapolis Birth Centers and hospitals. To book your Fresh 48 Session with Michele be sure to send her e-mail with your due date to get on the calendar. BOOK NOW

Michele Quattrin of mQn Photography is a Minneapolis family photographer who documents motherhood, babies, and families with a timeless, honest style. With 15 years of experience and a background in photojournalism, she is especially drawn to the real moments that make early newborn sessions so meaningful. Her approach is gentle, polished, and natural, which makes her a great fit for Fresh 48 photography at hospitals like The Mother Baby Center at Children’s Minneapolis. Michele serves families across Minneapolis, Edina, and the Twin Cities, creating images that feel both heartfelt and refined. Learn more about Michele here.


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