If you’ve ever driven past blooming trees in May and thought, “Wait, why didn’t we do family photos here?!”—you’re not alone. Spring in Minneapolis is brief but beautiful, and when those blossoms hit their peak? Chef’s kiss. As a Minneapolis motherhood photographer, I’m here to spill all the seasonal secrets so you don’t miss your chance for dreamy, flower-filled spring photos in Minneapolis.
Whether you’re thinking maternity portraits under the cherry blossoms, your baby’s first birthday photos surrounded by blooms, or just finally wrangling the family into something coordinated and seasonally appropriate—this post is for you.
Let’s talk timing, location, and why booking early is basically the only way to win the spring session game.
Timing Is Everything: When Do the Blossoms Actually Bloom?
Here’s the honest truth: the trees do not care about our plans. I can tell you that, on average, Minneapolis spring blooms happen in mid-May—but we’ve seen them arrive as early as late April or as late as Memorial Day weekend. It’s a bit like gambling, except the jackpot is pink petals instead of poker chips.
Cherry blossoms are the early birds of the bunch, often blooming around the first or second week of May if the weather cooperates. These trees are delicate, fleeting, and completely show-offy in the best way. They don’t stick around long—think blink and they’re gone—so if you love that soft pastel look, you’ll want to aim early.
Crab apple trees are the reliable middle siblings. They tend to peak mid-May and can hold onto their blooms a little longer. These trees are your golden window for spring photos in Minneapolis. The color range is stunning—white, blush pink, deep magenta—and they photograph like a dream.
Pro tip from someone who’s been doing this for 15 years: book your session for mid-May, but keep a little flexibility in case Mother Nature decides to be moody.
Best Spots for Spring Photos in Minneapolis (and Beyond)
Let’s talk location. Because yes, the trees bloom—but where you go matters. You want somewhere that doesn’t just have blossoms, but also photographs beautifully. Here are my go-to favorites:
Como Park – St. Paul
Yes, technically it’s in St. Paul, but trust me—it’s worth the short drive. Como Park is one of the most popular spots for spring photos in Minnesota because of its cherry blossoms, crab apple trees, and dreamy backdrops. The challenge? Everyone else knows it’s amazing too. That’s why I always recommend weekday evenings here—less crowd, better light, and more relaxed vibes for your kiddos (and you).
Private Venue – Forest Lake
This one’s a bit of a secret weapon. It’s a private property up in Forest Lake, and the blooms here are unreal. Because it’s private, it’s not swarmed with people and you get a more peaceful experience. I offer sessions here each spring, but they book fast since space is limited. If you're already dreaming of a floral-filled baby milestone or motherhood session here, don’t wait to get on my list.
Honorable Mentions
I’ve also found little pockets of blooming trees in neighborhoods and random parks around town. Sometimes the best photos come from unexpected spots—so if you’re open to a little adventure, we can find a quiet gem together.
What Kind of Sessions Are Best in the Spring?
Spring is a season of new beginnings—and that’s basically the tagline for motherhood, right? It’s the perfect time for:
Maternity Sessions
Imagine a flowing dress, golden light, and you nestled under blooming branches. It’s like a fairytale, except it’s real and you don’t have to talk to woodland creatures. Spring photos in Minneapolis make the most beautiful backdrop for maternity portraits, especially with nature waking up all around you.
Newborn & Baby Milestone Sessions
While newborns usually stick to my cozy, naturally lit studio, I love incorporating spring blossoms into milestone sessions once babies can sit up or stand. A one-year session with a crawling babe in a bonnet, reaching for petals? YES. Or a snuggly spring session for that 6-month stage when personalities start to bloom right along with the trees.
Motherhood Sessions
These are for moms who want to be in the frame—not just behind the camera. Spring is ideal because it feels like a celebration. You survived winter (barely), and now you get to dress up a bit, twirl with your little ones, and make art together.
Family Sessions
Because no one wants to wrangle kids in a blizzard, and summer gets sweaty. Spring is the perfect happy medium: pleasant weather, fresh outfits, and that magical light that bounces off the blooms like it was meant to find your cheekbones.
Book Early, Stay Flexible, and Trust the Photo Process
Here’s the tricky part about spring: it’s unpredictable. And because everyone wants those iconic spring photos in Minneapolis, sessions book quickly—especially the good ones.
What I always recommend:
- Book early – I usually start planning spring sessions in late winter. My repeat clients already know to grab a May date as soon as my calendar opens.
- Stay flexible – We might have to move your session up or push it back a few days to catch peak bloom. I’ll keep a close eye on the trees and guide you through it. You’re not on your own!
- Think wardrobe early – Don’t wait until the day before to choose outfits. I offer a studio wardrobe with dresses and outfits for babies, toddlers, and mamas—plus monthly style guides with easy outfit combos if you want to wear your own clothes. Spring sessions shine with soft neutrals and pastel tones (and honestly, less is more when the trees are showing off).
Also, if your baby spits up on your blouse five minutes before your session—don’t panic. I’ve got backups. I’ve seen it all. And we’ll still get the shot.
Let’s Make Spring Happen
Spring might be short-lived in Minnesota, but the photos? They last. Whether you’re celebrating a new baby, growing a belly, chasing toddlers, or just want to finally be in photos with your kids—spring is a season worth remembering.
So let’s plan it. Let’s obsess over the weather together, whisper sweet nothings to the crab apple trees, and get you on the calendar for the most photogenic two weeks of the year.
Have a question about timing or wardrobe? Want to know if your favorite spot will bloom this year? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
Michele is a Minneapolis-based motherhood photographer with over 15 years of experience documenting maternity, newborn, baby milestones, and family moments in a style that’s timeless, simple, and joy-filled. Known for her calm presence and ability to find beauty in the chaos of parenthood, she specializes in helping families look and feel their best—whether in her naturally lit studio or beneath blooming crab apple trees. When she's not behind the camera, you can find her wrangling her own teenagers, testing out easy dinner recipes, or stalking the cherry blossoms like it’s a competitive sport. Michele believes spring in Minnesota is pure magic—especially when it involves moms and their babies framed by flowers.
0 Comments