Mini Sessions = Maximum Magic

If the thought of wrangling your kids for a full hour-long photo session gives you hives, I have good news: you don’t need 60+ minutes to get beautiful, connection-filled family photos. As a lifestyle family photographer serving Oconomowoc and Lake Country, I’ve designed family mini sessions with busy families (like yours) in mind — shorter, simpler, and still packed with heart. If you’ve never tried one, here’s why they might be your new favorite thing.

Short on Time? Perfect.

Mini sessions typically run 10–20 minutes, which is just enough time to get all the essential shots, without pushing your toddler past the point of no return. You show up, we capture the magic, and you’re on your way. No marathon posing. No dragging your family around a park for an hour. Just quick, meaningful moments, captured beautifully.

Many of my family mini sessions take place right here in the Lake Country area - from the tall grasses at Lapham Peak in Delafield to the golden hour glow at Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha, or in my own photography studio. These quick sessions are designed to make the most of our beautiful local spots, with zero stress on your part.

Kid (and Parent) Friendly

Kids have very short attention spans. So do partners, let’s be honest 😅

Mini sessions are fast-paced and fun - no time for boredom, meltdowns, or bribery negotiations. It’s more like a quick adventure than a traditional photo shoot.

And because I know how to maximize every single minute, you’ll still walk away with a gallery full of photos you love. Whether I’m photographing wiggly toddlers or camera-shy grownups, my approach stays light and playful, and it shows in the final images.

As a Lake Country family photographer, I’ve worked with so many incredible families, and mini sessions are always a favorite for their ease and flexibility.

Budget-Friendly Without Compromising Quality

If you’ve been wanting updated family photos but aren’t ready to invest in a full session, family mini sessions are a fantastic option. They’re more affordable, with all the same attention to detail, beautiful lighting, and experience.

You still get the Katie touch, just in a smaller, more accessible package. It’s a win-win.

And if you’re looking for something fun and easy this summer? My summer mini sessions are just around the corner, featuring six dreamy Lake Country locations. A little sunshine, a lot of memory-making magic. These book fast every year (for good reason), so if you’ve been waiting for the right time to jump in, this is it.

Want to see what a real summer mini looks like? Take a peek at this dreamy Oconomowoc mini session to get a feel for the vibe.

Perfect for Milestones, Holidays, or “Just Because”

Mini sessions are a great fit for:

Holiday cards
Birthday milestones
Quick seasonal updates
Grandparent gifts
Just because you want to remember this moment

Fall family mini sessions in Lake Country are especially popular - crisp air, cozy outfits, and golden light are a recipe for magic. Whether you're updating your holiday card or just want to capture your kids at this fun stage, a quick 15-minute session might be all you need.

One of my favorite offerings each year? Motherhood Mini Sessions.

Every year, I hold these sessions as a way to give moms the opportunity to step in front of the camera with their children, creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're chasing toddlers or snuggling a newborn, these quick sessions celebrate the love and connection that only motherhood can bring.

You don’t need a “big reason” to book…. Sometimes the best memories come from the most ordinary seasons. Mini sessions make it easy to document those fleeting moments before they’re gone.

Lake Country lifestyle family photographer.jpg

What to Expect (and How to Get the Most Out of Yours)

I’ll send over all the prep info ahead of time: what to wear, where to meet, and what to expect. Check out my Family Photoshoot FAQs for all the details. All you have to do is show up, be present with your family, and trust the process.

My job? Capture those beautiful in-between moments fast, and make it fun for everyone.

You’ll leave saying, “Wait, that’s it?” in the best way possible.

Let’s Make Some Mini Magic

Whether it’s your first time doing a mini session or you're a repeat client who knows how much goodness we can get in 15 minutes, I’d love to see your fam in front of my lens this season.

From sun-soaked summer evenings to heartfelt spring Motherhood Minis, there’s a session for every season and story. If you're a Lake Country parent looking for a simple way to get beautiful, heartfelt family photos without a huge time commitment, my family mini sessions are made for you.

Get in touch here!