2026 Orange County Fall Family Mini Sessions
2026 Orange County Fall Family Mini Sessions
If you're thinking about updating your family photos this year, now is the perfect time to start planning. Every fall, families throughout Orange County begin thinking ahead to holiday cards, gifts for grandparents, and capturing another year of memories before their children grow just a little bit more.
As an Orange County family photographer, fall is my busiest season of the year, and for good reason. The weather is beautiful, the golden evening light is incredible, and many of my most popular locations are only available for a limited time.
Whether you're looking for a cozy Christmas tree farm, a classic historic backdrop, a stunning beach sunset, or something uniquely Southern California, I have a variety of mini session options designed to fit every family's style.
Every Mini Session Includes:
✔ Professional guidance from start to finish
✔ Styling resources to help coordinate outfits
✔ An online gallery of the best images from your session, professionally selected and hand-edited by me
✔ Every session includes a select number of hand-edited digital images to download, with the option to purchase additional images from your gallery.
✔ Beautiful locations throughout Orange County
Why Book Fall Family Photos Now?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that holiday photos happen in November or December. In reality, most family photographers in Orange County photograph holiday sessions in September and October.
Here's why:
✔ Time for professional editing
✔ Plenty of time to order holiday cards
✔ Gifts for grandparents arrive before Christmas
✔ You avoid the holiday rush
✔ The most popular dates haven't sold out yet
Some locations—especially my Christmas Tree Farm sessions—sell out every single year long before Halloween arrives.
Booking early simply means one less thing to worry about once school schedules, sports, and the holidays begin.
2026 Mini Session Locations
One of my favorite things about photographing families throughout Orange County is that no two sessions have to look alike. Whether your family loves the beach, historic architecture, wide open fields, or Christmas magic, there's something for everyone.
Want to see available dates, pricing, and what's still open?
Christmas Tree Farm Mini Sessions
These are hands-down my most requested sessions every year. Photographed in October at a beautiful Orange County tree farm, these sessions feature:
- my vintage red and white 1956 Ford truck
- a classic red and white Volkswagen Bus
- rows of Christmas trees
- festive holiday styling
- cozy fall colors
These sessions are perfect for families planning holiday cards and always sell out quickly.
Holiday VW Bus Beach Sessions
If traditional Christmas isn't really your style, welcome to Southern California.
These sessions take place at beautiful Doheny State Beach and feature a vintage VW Bus decorated for the holidays.
Think.... Palm trees. Ocean sunsets. Bare feet. Christmas lights.
It's the perfect combination of holiday spirit with a laid-back California vibe.
Surfing Santa Sessions
Looking for something completely unique? Surfing Santa has become one of my favorite holiday setups. Picture Santa in board shorts with a surfboard, the Pacific Ocean in the background, and a session that couldn't be more "California Christmas." These are especially popular with families who want holiday cards that truly reflect life in Orange County.
Orange Circle Mini Sessions
Historic charm never goes out of style. Brick streets, vintage storefronts, ivy-covered buildings, and beautiful evening light make Orange Circle one of my favorite locations for classic family portraits.
Rancho Las Lomas
This exclusive venue offers gorgeous gardens, unique architecture, and beautiful landscaping unlike anywhere else in Orange County. If you're looking for something elegant and a little different, Rancho Las Lomas is an incredible choice.
Simple Studio Sessions
Classic portraits never go out of style.
With a clean backdrop and beautiful lighting, these quick studio sessions are perfect for children's portraits, milestone milestones, or updating your professional headshot. Simple, timeless images with the focus exactly where it belongs—you.
Only offered twice a year, the fall dates are perfectly timed for holiday cards and gifts for grandparents.
What Happens During Your Mini Session?
If you've never booked a mini session before, don't worry—I guide you every step of the way.
Mini sessions are intentionally short because children tend to do best when they're having fun, not standing still for an hour.
We'll laugh.
We'll play.
We'll walk.
We'll snuggle.
We'll let kids be kids.
My goal isn't stiff smiles.
It's genuine connection.
Some of my favorite images happen between the posed moments.
What Should We Wear?
One of the biggest questions I receive is what everyone should wear. After booking, you'll receive access to my styling resources to help coordinate outfits without everyone matching exactly. Neutral colors, soft textures, and layering photograph beautifully, and I'm always happy to help if you're unsure what will work best for your chosen location.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we book?
As soon as your preferred location opens. Popular sessions begin selling out months in advance.
How long are mini sessions?
Depending on the location, sessions range from 10 to 30 minutes.
What if my kids don't cooperate?
That's completely normal—and honestly expected! I work with children of all ages and focus on creating a relaxed, playful experience. Some of the best photos happen when kids are simply being themselves.
Can grandparents join?
Mini sessions are designed for immediate families. If you'd like to include grandparents or extended family, I'd recommend booking an extended family session instead.
Let's Capture Your Family This Fall!
Whether you're dreaming of Christmas trees, sandy toes at the beach, historic architecture, or a unique Southern California holiday experience, I'd love to help you create images you'll treasure for years to come. Fall dates are limited, and several locations sell out every year. If you've been thinking about updating your family photos, now is the perfect time to reserve your session before your favorite date is gone.
I can't wait to photograph your family this fall!
Serving Families Throughout Orange County
Although I'm based in Orange County, California, I photograph families throughout:
- Irvine
- Mission Viejo
- Lake Forest
- Rancho Santa Margarita
- Laguna Beach
- Newport Beach
- Dana Point
- San Juan Capistrano
- Orange
- Tustin
- Costa Mesa
- Huntington Beach
- Aliso Viejo
- Trabuco Canyon
- Ladera Ranch
- Yorba Linda
- Anaheim Hills
Whether you're looking for a beach session, a holiday setup, or timeless family portraits, I'd love to help document this season of your family's story.
Please send me a message and I'll respond within in 24-48 hours. You can also call or text me at 714.425.2466.
