Fall 2026 Mini Sessions
Every year, right around late summer and fall, I open up a handful of Seasonal Mini Sessions: short, back-to-back sessions at one announced spot, so you can get your holiday photos done without booking a full session. Here's where I'm setting up this year.
There are two ways to book. Seasonal Mini Sessions run on set dates at the locations below. Private Mini Sessions run year-round on your schedule, at a location you choose.
"She made us feel like we were hanging out with a new friend and just exploring around like we normally do... there just happened to be a camera with us!"Liza D.
"She made the photo shoot incredibly comfortable and easy for all of us, especially my toddler. It was hard to decide which photos to print!"Kelly C.
The Mini Sessions Menu
Every spot below reads like a menu item: who it's for, the walk, the crowds, the light. Find the one that sounds like your family, then grab a date.
Hippie Tree, Tiburon
For families who like a little adventure. A giant old eucalyptus filters the evening light, and the bay views from the outlook are the kind that stay with you.
Land's End, San Francisco
For families who want a bit of everything: ocean views, wind-twisted cypress trees, and some of the prettiest coastal plants in San Francisco.
Shoreline Park, Tiburon
For families who want the coastal feel without any walk in. Water, rocks to climb, a little beach, and the ferry gliding past.
Redwood Grove, Larkspur
For families who want redwoods without leaving town. A little grove next to Dolliver Park, with a playground next door for burning energy before or after.
Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito
For families who want the Golden Gate in their photos while staying on the Marin side. By evening the sun drops behind the bridge and everything glows.
Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
For families who want iconic San Francisco: the towering columns earlier in the evening, or the lagoon with the rotunda glowing behind you at sunset.
Downtown Open Space, San Rafael
For families who want the hike feeling without the hike. Golden grass, big rocks for kids to climb, and Mt. Tam across the valley.
Lovers Lane, San Francisco
For families who love the forest, and for kids who are at their best before lunch. Tall eucalyptus, fallen logs to walk, sticks to build with.
Private Garden, San Anselmo
For families who want calm. A private garden a few blocks from downtown, with gorgeous evening light (exact address shared once you book).
Dominican Neighborhood, San Rafael
For families who want beauty without giving up ease. Tree-lined paved paths, all kinds of backdrops, and reliable sun with no fog to work around.
How Seasonal Minis Work
A Seasonal Mini Session is 20 minutes at one announced spot, scheduled back to back with other families on the same day. That's plenty of time for the holiday card shot plus a handful of the real, in-between moments you'll want on the wall. Expect a lightly guided session with room for natural moments and improvisation. My goal is to make it enjoyable and stress-free, so you have a good time and you'll remember that when you see your photos.
You receive your full gallery (no need to choose, keep them all): 15+ edited, high-resolution images within two weeks of your session, in a private online gallery where you can download everything and order prints and holiday cards for up to a year.
Private Mini Sessions
For anyone who wants a smaller package on their own terms: your schedule, your location, any time of year. Just your family, about an hour, and a full gallery of 45+ edited images. Newborn minis happen in your home; family, maternity, and headshot minis can be in your home or at a spot you love in Marin or San Francisco.
More about what to expect, the gallery, and the aesthetic on the private mini session details page.
Mini Session FAQ
How long is a mini session?
20 minutes, back to back at one location. Start times are firm, so please arrive about 10 minutes early.
How many photos do I get?
Your full gallery: 15+ edited, high-resolution images within two weeks, in a private online gallery. Prints and holiday cards can be ordered from the gallery for up to a year.
What should we wear?
Clothing and shoes you can move comfortably in and that make you feel your best. A coordinated color scheme beats matching outfits. My what to wear guide and color scheme post are good starting points, and you can always send me photos of options.
What if my kid is shy or wiggly?
Sessions are lightly guided and follow your kids' lead. Nobody needs to perform. If you have a little one who takes time to warm up, this post has things that genuinely help.
Where are the sessions?
At the Marin County and San Francisco spots listed above. Each location page covers the light, parking, and what to expect there. Every spot is a short walk from parking.
Can I book a different date or location?
Yes. Private Mini Sessions run year-round on your schedule, at a location of your choosing.
How do I book?
Pick a date above and click Book. You'll choose your time slot, fill out a short questionnaire, sign the agreement, and pay online. You'll get a welcome email from me the same day.
Not running right now: Woodacre Valley
Questions First?
Not sure which spot fits your family, or want something more flexible than a set date? Private Mini Sessions run on your schedule at a location of your choosing.