family photos for weirdos, nerds, and free spirits.

family of three standing in tall grass in late afternoon light and laughing together

Bay Area Fall Mini Sessions 2026

Written By:

Maryam Salassi

Aug 5, 2026

This year I’ll be offering quite a few locations for mini sessions all around the San Francisco Bay Area! I’ve started offering straightforward lifestyle sessions through Hi & Hello Studio and the mini sessions are an extension of that. If you’re interested in booking a mini session this fall, keep reading for more info or click here to go to go to the booking page.

You might be wondering what a mini session includes, well have no fear, I have the answer for you! All mini sessions include:

  • a 15 minute session
  • access to an online styling service
  • a gallery with 30+ photos
  • 5 digital files for download
  • 20% off prints and gifts in your gallery

Here are the available locations this fall:

9/19/26 – Oakland Redwood Mini Sessions

This location in the Oakland redwoods is easy to get to and just steps away from a parking lot for simple access. The redwoods provide the perfect backdrop for photos with a forest feel without having to hike to get there. Kiddos love the tree stumps for climbing on and there is a playground nearby to get the wiggles out after your session!

family of four sitting on a log in the Oakland redwoods

9/26/26 – West Oakland Mini Sessions

This location is perfect for a more modern urban backdrop. I love this location because the simplicity really lets your personalities shine! It’s the perfect backdrop for a more casual, colorful vibe or a bold look that stands out. There is easy street parking nearby and Prescott Market is nearby to grab some coffee or a bite to eat after your session.

family of three sitting on sidewalk in front of white corrugated wall
dad in black jeans and sweater holding young son in gray sweater next to mom wearing a white dress with black polka dots

10/11/26 – Scarf Backdrop Emeryville Studio Mini Sessions

If you’re looking for a more unique session you can’t go wrong with a visit to my studio in Emeryville! This mini session includes a backdrop that I hand made earlier this year and is perfect for smaller families, couples, or individuals wanting headshots with a relaxed feel. There is easy parking, but the studio is on the second floor of a historic building with no elevator. If you or anyone in your family needs accomodations, let me know and I’m happy to figure out a solution with you.

mom in denim jacket and white dress sitting cross legged with toddler girl in white romper on her lap in front of a handmade scarf backdrop
Mom in green coordinating set holding baby boy while toddler boy hugs her from behind and young daughter sits next to her smiling

10/9/26 – Lake Temescal Mini Sessions

Another lovely Oakland mini session location, Lake Temescal has beautiful light in the afternoon! You can get a mix of photos in the grass, with large trees in the background, and photos lakeside. Great for families who love to run around and play games, and couples who want a romantic vibe.

family of three walking together in a wooded area
mom in white dress and beige cardigan holding hands with dad in chambray shirt and jeans standing behind toddler son

10/24/26 – Emeryville Mural Mini Sessions

Want something a little more colorful for you photos? This location in Emeryville might be the perfect spot! There is easy street parking and a few murals in one spot, great for a variety of photos.

family of four standing together in front of plant mural
mom wearing yellow dress standing with dad in tee shirt and jeans and leaning against a mural while kids run around them

11/7/26 – Legion of Honor Mini Sessions

The Legion of Honor in San Francisco is the perfect backdrop for families who value a clean and classic vibe. You can’t go wrong with the columns and stone, plus there is a great lawn and view for variety.

mom and dad holding their kids in front of marble columns at the Legion of Honor in San Francisco
young brother and sister holding hands and running towards the camera while mom and dad smile and walk toward them from behind

11/14/26 – Filoli Gardens Mini Sessions

For families on the Peninsula, Filoli Gardens provides a gorgeous location with a wide variety of backdrops all in one place. One thing to know about this location? Your entry to the gardens is not included in your session fee so make sure you get your tickets through the Filoli website when you book your session. It’s best to book both at the same time to avoid any hiccups!

family of four sitting on steps in front of a large picture window in a brick building
mom and dad standing on a green lawn in front of a brick building at Filoli gardens while three kids run around them

And that’s all you need to know about this year’s fall mini sessions in the Bay Area. If you’re looking for a full lifestyle session you can click here, and if you’d like a more artistic session on film click here.

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