There’s something incredibly special about photographing mothers with their children. These aren’t just pretty pictures. They’re a pause—a little space carved out of the busy, loud, messy rhythm of motherhood to just be with your babies. No multitasking. No rushing. Just connection, beauty, and presence.
Recently, I photographed two incredible moms and their children in the studio as I prepared to highlight my Minneapolis Motherhood Sessions. Each one reminded me why I love offering this experience—not just for the images we create, but for how the moms feel in front of the camera. It’s not every day they get to feel this seen.
Let’s take a look behind the scenes, walk through the experience, and talk about why these sessions matter.
Elegant, Playful, and Everything In Between
One of my favorite things about photographing motherhood sessions is how the mood naturally shifts throughout. There’s often a quiet tenderness in the way a mom brushes hair back from her child’s face. But there’s also laughter when someone tells a silly joke or starts twirling around the room. Some moments feel almost regal in their stillness; others are pure chaos in the best way.
In both of these recent sessions, we moved between elegant poses and playful connection effortlessly. You can see it in the photos—the way the kids relaxed into their mom’s side, how freely the little ones expressed themselves, and how calm and comfortable the moms looked. That’s always the goal with my Minneapolis Motherhood Sessions: to create a safe, beautiful space where emotions can unfold naturally.
Styled to Feel Effortless (But It’s All Thought Out)
All the clothing for these sessions came from my studio wardrobe, which is filled with soft textures, neutral tones, and classic silhouettes. The styling is meant to feel natural and timeless, not fussy or overdone. We want the focus to stay on the connection.
In one session, the mom wore a 3/4 sleeved lace dress that photographed like a dream. Her son wore a cream sweater, and her daughter looked adorable in a muted floral dress. The whole look was soft and cohesive, with subtle floral elements on the bench that tied it all together without being too styled.
In the other session, the mom wore a flowing blush pink gown that draped so beautifully as she held her daughter, who wore a white textured romper with the sweetest little headband. The light in the studio wrapped around them both in the most flattering way—simple, timeless, and elegant.
These thoughtful outfit choices elevate Minneapolis Motherhood Sessions into something truly special. They take the guesswork out of what to wear, and they photograph beautifully no matter what.
Behind the Scenes: A Little Self-Care Before Stepping In
Before the photos even began, each mom started the day at Lisa Christine Artistry in Fridley. This is one of the steps that makes the whole experience feel elevated—and honestly, a little luxurious (without the stress of planning a whole production).
Lisa is warm and welcoming, and truly understands how to bring out each client’s natural beauty. Soft glam is her signature style—think polished but not heavy-handed. It’s the kind of look that enhances without overpowering, and it translates beautifully on camera.
Even if you’re someone who knows how to do your own makeup, there’s something about having lashes, contouring, and professionally styled hair that just makes a difference. It stays put. It frames your face perfectly. And most importantly, it gives you a confidence boost that you can feel in your photos. That relaxed, glowy vibe you see? It starts with feeling amazing walking into the studio—and Lisa plays a huge part in that.
Why Motherhood Sessions Matter (Even If You Already Have iPhone Photos)
We all have phone photos of us and our kids. Maybe they’re a little blurry. Maybe your face is cropped halfway out. Maybe your expression says, “I haven’t had a full night of sleep in five years.” And while those snapshots matter too, they’re not the same as this.
My Minneapolis Motherhood Sessions are about giving moms something different: the chance to be fully present in the photo and to feel beautiful doing it.
These images aren’t just for social media or holiday cards. They’re for your children, years down the line. They’re for the moments when they’ll want to remember what it felt like to be held in your arms, to sit close to you, to dance barefoot in a light-filled room. You deserve to be in the frame. Not just holding the camera, but holding your babies—elegantly, effortlessly, and fully seen.
The Motherhood Event | May 3rd 2025
If you’ve ever thought about doing a session like this—maybe you’ve put it off, or didn’t feel “ready”—I hope this gives you a gentle nudge. You don’t need a milestone or a reason. Being a mom is reason enough.
I’ll take care of the styling. You can hire Lisa to take care of the glam. And then you just have to show up, love on your kids, and let the rest unfold.
My Minneapolis Motherhood Sessions are open to book now. If you're ready to step into the frame, I’d love to create something beautiful with you.
Have questions or thoughts about motherhood sessions? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you.
Michele is a Minneapolis-based motherhood and family photographer with over 15 years of experience capturing the quiet beauty and joyful chaos of raising little ones. Known for her simple, timeless style and calming presence behind the camera, Michele creates space for moms to feel seen, confident, and connected. Her studio wardrobe and trusted network of hair and makeup artists make the process effortless, so clients can simply show up, love on their babies, and walk away with meaningful portraits they’ll return to again and again.
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