why this is different

I rarely offer mini sessions, but I’ve been feeling the tug to curate this experience for awhile now and finally have the perfect space for it. While you may have heard of mini sessions before - maybe even participated in them - mine are vastly different in that no one is asked to sit and stay. My organic, natural take on photographing people is the backbone of what I shoot even if f we are together for only twenty minutes. There will be movement, play, and interaction. I’ll follow the kiddo around, let them lead. Just because we have a backdrop and a set up does not mean you need to make your two-year-old stand still. PLEASE do not come to these sessions expecting that. There are plenty of other photographers out there who can take that picture. These are not to be stressful and these are not meant to be mannequin-esque images. Just as I do in my full length sessions, connection and real emotion is the main focus. If you trust me, together we can create something really beautiful.

the kindest words

Amanda is a beautiful soul who sees beauty in the world and it shows through her unparalleled talent. My husband and I have used highly rated photographers in both New Orleans and Chicago and Amanda is better than any of them. We have already used her for FIVE different photo shoots. She is literally a magician. The beautiful images Amanda captures of my family are truly priceless. They capture both the beauty of my family and the God honest candid craziness. She will show you some of the shots as she is shooting and I'm always blown away. I'm standing there next to her and what I see with my eyes and what Amanda captures with her camera are just world's apart. She also has an incredibly calming spirit. Before the shoot, I usually feel stressed as we're scrambling to get everybody just picture perfect. But then Amanda comes in and just calms everything down. From the moment you met her she feels like a life long friend. She is just so comfortable in herself, her talent, being in our home or a park that it puts you at ease. And she is amazing with kids!! We used other photographers who are not comfortable with kids so don't think just because someone has photographed children it means they are good at it. Amanda took my slow-to-warm-up kids and eased them into shooting until they are totally at ease with her. She's amazing to watch.

- The Vanderhyden Family

does this feel good to you? let’s do this!

There are only 18 spots available over a two day span. Click through below to book your slot!

questions? i’ve got answers

What’s the vibe for these sessions? Lots of lace, fringy blankets, wooden clothespins, sifted late afternoon light, a bucket of locally grown flowers, an old stool, a boho straw baby basket for the little ones, simple beauty, straw hats, connection over posing.

Is there a maximum or minimum kiddo age? Heck no! If that baby is still in your belly, I wanna see you! If your kid’s about to head off to college, drag ‘em here if you want. Generations are a great idea too!

What if it rains? There will be a rain date within a week or two if that happens.

What if I have to cancel? There will be no refunds, only a credit for what you paid toward another session in my backyard that must be used by July 1, 2022.

Why should I come before or after my session slot? For the sweet tea, of course. For the curated spread of berries and cheddar, thick bread and jam. For the kids to familiarize themselves with the space and run around. But mostly, come to connect with other mamas.

What kinds of vintage kids clothing will you have to borrow? Many might know already I am kind of a hoarder when it comes to vintage clothing. I don’t have a kid yet, but man when they come their wardrobe is going to be set until age three. I have muted floral dresses, rompers, acid wash Osh Kosh. I’m a sucker for earth toned linens, white frocks, hand-knitted sweaters. There will be a trunk and clothesline for browsing (another reason to come before your session!) and clothes will be reused unless they become dirty during the session. Please note: clothing cannot be taken home and I cannot specify what sizes I have ahead of time, though I will do my best to show off what I do have via my instagram stories.