Bay Area Mini Sessions
Thoughtfully curated mini sessions, designed around the beauty of each season.
What's a Mini Session and Who It Is For
Mini sessions are seasonal, limited edition, thoughtfully planned events designed around the beauty of each season across the San Francisco Peninsula. Each offering is created with intention, from the location to the timing, so the experience feels cohesive and easy rather than rushed. These Bay Area Mini Sessions are ideal for families, couples, and individuals who want beautiful, seasonal photos in a shorter time frame and at a more accessible price point.
This is a done for you experience. I carefully scout photography locations throughout the Bay Area that highlight the unique character of each month. The date, time, location, and theme are set in advance. You simply book your spot, show up, and enjoy the session while I guide the rest.
Let me take the lead and you relax.
“Ellen took the photos of my dreams! Let her take the lead, she knows exactly what she’s doing.
"
- Denise, Boy mom
Spring Mini Sessions follow the most beautiful floral blooms across the Bay Area, including tulips minis, wild mustard fields minis, and other seasonal florals. Session dates shift slightly each year to align with when these blooms are at their best. If you are looking for a spring mini session photographer to capture you and your loved ones surrounded by colorful, seasonal blooms, this offering is a wonderful fit.
Motherhood Mini Sessions are offered each spring before Mother’s Day. These short, relaxed sessions celebrate the connection between moms and their children. Partners and pets can join too. If you are looking for a Mommy and Me photographer in the Bay Area, these sessions are designed to capture how you love, play, and connect. There is no pressure. Just beautiful, heartfelt images you will cherish.
Fall Mini Sessions take place at cozy, golden light locations with natural warm colors and open space for kids to explore calmly. Locations may include woodsy trail minis, redwood grove minis, or beach minis across the San Francisco Peninsula. If you are looking for a fall mini session photographer to document your family before the holidays, this offering is a beautiful option.
Holiday Mini Sessions feature special seasonal themes, such as Christmas tree minis, designed to feel festive and thoughtfully planned. If you are looking for a holiday mini session photographer in San Mateo County, this offering is a easy way to document the season.
Mini sessions are offered seasonally throughout the year across the San Francisco Peninsula and Bay Area. Each session is thoughtfully themed to highlight what photographs best that season.
Seasonal Mini Session Offerings
“Ellen was amazing to work with! She was super efficient during our mini-session
Ellen was amazing to work with! She was super efficient during our mini-session. Not only was she able to capture multiple family photos, but she got several cute pictures of my kids (including my overly energetic 4-year old).
Thank you, Ellen, for the amazing photos!
— Kristin, San Francisco mom of two
What FamiLies Say about the Bay Area Mini Session photographer
What to Expect During Your Mini Session
Mini sessions are well led, efficient, and designed to feel manageable, especially for families with young children. I guide the flow with simple prompts and keep things moving with ease so children can settle in naturally.
Even in a shorter time frame, there is space for real connection and meaningful images.
Pricing reflects a fully supported, done for you experience from planning through your final gallery. Sessions are thoughtfully paced, efficiently directed, and focused on connection over perfection.
Feature Family Photo Sessions From The Bay Area
Feature Mini Sessions From The Bay Area
Read more about this playful golden hour session at Redwood Grove in Los Altos. It feels private, magical, and kid friendly all at once. A perfect backdrop for fun and laidback family photos.
Explore the Arizona Cactus Garden in Palo Alto. Natural light, warm smiles, and a unique landscape make this Stanford University spot feel relaxed and memorable.
Kohl Mansion in Burlingame is a favorite among parents. The open grounds feel spacious and calm, giving kids room to move while still providing a polished, timeless backdrop.
Booking and Availability for Bay Area Mini Sessions
Bay Area Mini Sessions are released seasonally and offered in limited quantities. Dates are shared first with my email list and often fill quickly.
When booking opens, you can select your time slot and receive all preparation details in advance. Sessions take place at carefully chosen locations across the Bay Area and the San Francisco Peninsula.