Summer Field Family Mini Sessions | Field Photoshoot Ideas

Mini Sessions

There’s something truly magical about field minis. Every summer, they become the most requested and beloved mini sessions I offer — and for good reason! In 2024, they were my most popular sessions of the entire year, and for 2025, they are already almost sold out. If you’re looking for field photoshoot ideas that deliver timeless, natural family portraits you can hang proudly all year long, field minis are the perfect choice.

Let’s dive into what makes these sessions so special (and a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when planning your own!).

The Beauty of Simplicity: Why I Love Field Minis

One of the main reasons I love field minis so much is their simplicity. There’s no elaborate setup or props needed — just your family, genuine connection, and a stunning natural backdrop. The beauty of the field speaks for itself: tall grass swaying in the breeze, golden light spilling across the landscape, and soft textures that add depth and warmth to every image.If you’re looking for field photoshoot ideas that focus on emotion and connection over staging, this is it. Field minis keep the spotlight right where it belongs — on your family’s authentic bond.

Why Field Minis Make the Best Wall Art for Your Home

Another reason I adore field minis? The images you’ll receive are incredibly versatile and timeless. Unlike seasonal sessions that might feel tied to a specific time of year, field mini portraits can be proudly displayed in your home year-round.

The neutral tones, natural textures, and warm, soft lighting complement any decor style — from modern minimalist to cozy farmhouse. Families who book these sessions often tell me that their field mini portraits become the centerpiece of their home galleries.When planning field photoshoot ideas, I always suggest keeping in mind where you might want to hang your portraits — and trust me, a beautiful field photo fits anywhere.

A Few Challenges to Consider (And How We Handle Them) 

1. Connecticut Weather is Unpredictable

Pop-up thunderstorms are common during Connecticut summers, and fields offer very little shelter! Because of this, there’s always a chance we may need to reschedule. I keep a close eye on the forecast and stay flexible so that we can make the best call together.

If you’re brainstorming field photoshoot ideas, flexibility is key — but I promise the final results are worth it.

2. Later Bedtimes for Little Ones

Since the best golden light happens close to sunset, and Burlington, Connecticut sunsets run late in summer, your little ones might have to stay up past their usual bedtime. But don’t worry — I bring plenty of games and engaging activities to keep everyone laughing, playing, and having a blast throughout the session.

Happy, distracted kids = genuine, joyful portraits. (And usually a good night’s sleep afterward too!)

3. Keeping an Eye Out for Ticks

Because we’re in tall grass, I always remind families to check for ticks before bed. But don’t let this deter you — ticks are now common even in short grass and everyday outdoor spaces. Just be vigilant, do a quick check after the session, and you’ll be totally fine.

Enjoy the field and the memories — it’s part of the adventure!

What to Wear for the Best Field Mini Portraits

One of my favorite tips for planning your session? Keep outfits simple. In a field, it’s the natural textures, family connection, and beautiful light that make the magic — not complicated wardrobes.

When dreaming up field photoshoot ideas, think about soft neutrals, light pastels, and simple, classic pieces. You don’t need heavy layers or fancy accessories. Lightweight dresses, linen shirts, and comfortable outfits help you stay cool and look stunning against the warm, golden backdrop.

Plus, I provide every client with a detailed styling guide to make choosing outfits completely stress-free!

Beating the Summer Heat

One question I often get is: Won’t it be too hot for a summer field session?
 By the time our session rolls around in the evening, the worst of the heat has usually passed. And I send all my families tips and tricks for staying cool and comfortable on the day of the session — from staying hydrated to choosing breathable fabrics.

The summer evenings in Burlington are often surprisingly pleasant, and you’ll be so busy playing and laughing, you might not even notice the temperature!

Final Thoughts: Why Field Minis Are Worth It

Every year, my field minis sell out faster and faster, and it’s no surprise why. They are simple, stunning, and full of life — the perfect way to capture your family exactly as you are in this season.

If you’re dreaming up field photoshoot ideas for your next family portrait session, I can’t recommend field minis enough. They create images that are timeless, heartfelt, and filled with connection — images you’ll cherish forever.

I can’t wait to capture your family’s story against the beautiful backdrop of summer fields. See you there!

Choosing Sharon as Your CT Family Photographer

Why do you want Sharon Leger Photography as your Connecticut family photographer? First, you will be fully prepared for your session. This preparation includes detailed emails and videos before your session, in addition to a prep guide and questionnaire. Second, your session is thoughtfully strategized so that you get way more images than you ever thought possible. And finally, as a former elementary school teacher, Sharon is skilled at engaging and connecting with clients of all ages. Shy toddler? No problem! Cranky husband? I got you, mama! 

To learn more about Sharon Leger Photography, explore the website or follow Sharon on Instagram or Facebook. Please send inquiries through the website only. Please note that the website includes all relevant pricing and booking information.

If you are interested in booking Sharon Leger Photography as your Connecticut family photographer, please know that most spots book about six months out. Reach out today for current availability!

"I am so happy to have had Sharon capture photos of my family. She was so easy to work with, from scheduling to planning and coordinating, she could not have made the process more simple. She showed up on the day-of super prepared, with a whole wagon full of stuff just in case, including snacks for my kids! 

Kim

4 / 15

She worked so well with my children: she truly understands that children are going to get bored fast and she worked around their moods perfectly.

I love that she captured my kids' candid smiles, and not just the posed ones. To top it off, the final product was beyond my expectations and delivered in under a week! You can tell that she loves what she's doing and it shows in her work. She is truly a gem and I can't wait to work with her again as my children grow up!"

"We loved how simple and stress-free our son’s cake smash session was—we didn't need to worry about props or set-up. 

Alexis

When we showed up, Sharon had everything ready for us and we got to just be present in the moment. 

The portraits captured all the sweet little details we want to remember from his first birthday, and we were so happy to share them with our family. It was the perfect way to celebrate this milestone!" 

2 / 15

"Sharon was absolutely lovely to work with. I'm not the type of person who particularly enjoys photoshoots, but she is exceptionally adept at putting her clients at ease. Her studio is equal parts tranquil, tasteful and casual so that my wife and I were not in the least bit overwhelmed.

Kevin

Sharon anticipates every possible need and plans accordingly so that you don't have to. 

She is able to maintain the pace of her shoots, moving them forward judiciously without making the client feel rushed or unappreciated. She was completely down-to-earth and personable. It sounds cliché, but talking with her felt like catching up with an old friend – exactly we needed after the hectic experience of bringing our first child into the world. Sharon was more than worth the cost."

3 / 15

"Sharon was amazing to work with during our recent newborn session! She was very responsive with any questions I had before the session, and even offered advice on outfits for my older children. I borrowed a gorgeous dress from her client closet, which helped me feel more confident and comfortable for photos. 

Amanda

I was nervous about how the session would go with two young children and a newborn, but Sharon had everything so organized and prepared, that everything went flawlessly.

She was so calming and kind, and her studio felt so welcoming! The finished photos are all so beautiful, that I can't even come close to picking a favorite!"

4 / 15

"I was first introduced to Sharon in 2024 when I did a session of personality portraits, and I was instantly impressed. A few friends had used her before and raved about her work, and now I completely understand why! Sharon truly works magic behind the camera. She is incredibly organized, answering all questions and planning every detail ahead of time. 

Merissa

There’s never a need to stress about locations, directions, or even bad weather—she has a backup plan for everything!

One of my favorite parts of working with her is the dress consult to help plan outfits. She has such a great eye for style and helps put together looks that photograph beautifully."

5 / 15

"Sharon and Amy were fabulous! Right from the initial booking they made me feel special. I wore three beautiful dresses that Sharon already had available for me to wear from her client closet (I LOVE this feature!). We tried on several dresses until I found one that fit comfortably and I felt fabulous in.

Nicole

Amy & Sharon were great at communicating with me every step of the process.

Amy didn’t go overboard with the makeup, she made me look like myself but a little extra glam. An elevated version of myself. They were so fabulous and I would absolutely book them again. I 10/10 recommend Sharon and Amy for maternity or family photo sessions."

6 / 15

"Scheduling was super easy through her website and Sharon is very communicative. Sharon offers a dress consultation so you can go to her studio and try on multiple dresses that fit whatever theme you choose for your photo day.

Nicole

I've never seen a photographer offer a whole closet of dresses to choose from and this takes out ALL the stress of picking an outfit for pictures.

Another priceless offering when it comes to taking the stress out of family photos is hair and makeup (additional fee). I scheduled with Amy for a few hours before my shoot. Amy was so easy to talk to and did a fantastic job with the look I wanted. I'm already looking forward to another booking and have referred her to my friends and family. I cannot recommend Sharon and her team more."  
 

Kind Words

7 / 15

"We recently had our second family session with Sharon and 

Jenna

we were yet again blown away by the entire experience. 

From her expert outfit planning, to making the journey to join us at our beach for photos, Sharon created a relaxed, fun environment from beginning to end. The photos we received were beyond what I could have imagined! She captured our family perfectly!!"

8 / 15

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Sharon for a family beach session, and she was amazing from start to finish! Sharon's attention to detail and professionalism made the entire process seamless. Her empathetic and supportive nature made a world of difference, and the photos turned out beautifully. 

Alexis

I highly recommend Sharon to any mom looking for a talented and compassionate photographer, who takes the stress out of planning.

Her work is exceptional, and she truly cares about her clients. Thank you, Sharon, for capturing these moments for us!"

9 / 15

"Sharon is the absolute best! We worked with her for our maternity photos, newborn photos, and our cake smash one-year-old photos. Each time, Sharon is so professional and friendly, makes us feel right at home, and take the most beautiful photos. We are blown away every time! The client closet is awesome and Sharon really went the extra mile to find gowns that complimented me. 

Jen

We had so much fun taking all of these photos and can’t wait to work with her again!

We will cherish these photos forever."

10 / 15

"We did personality portraits for the second time with Sharon and they came out so well! 

Kelsey

The kids had such a blast and she really captured their unique personalities!"

11 / 15

"We did both our maternity and newborn photos with Sharon and she made each experience beyond amazing. I met Sharon first at our dress consultation and knew we were going to work well together. It’s incredible that she gives you access to some many dresses and really knows how to make a pregnant lady feel beautiful.

She made my husband (who admittedly did not want to take the pictures) feel so comfortable, got him laughing and even looking forward to the newborn shoot.

Then, at the newborn shoot Sharon was so patient with us (it was our first trip out) she again made me feel so beautiful in her huge selection of dresses and was so good and rocking out baby boy to sleep."

Alexa

12 / 15

"Stop reading reviews and just book your session with Sharon Leger Photography right now. Sharon has been there for my family even before we were an official family. She poetically captured our engagement, maternity and our newborn’s first photos.

I couldn’t imagine trusting anyone else with these precious moments.

I am not an easy client. I am nervous, unsure of myself and overly aware of every physical flaw (especially postpartum). Sharon made me feel comfortable and beautiful every step of the way. We love Sharon Leger Photography, especially the woman behind the lens! Thank you for everything, Sharon!"

Dawn

13 / 15

"Sharon is an absolute gem! It has been 3.5 years since I found her and since then she has captured the most adorable and perfect pictures of my two sons and our family.

From newborn sessions, cake smashes and family photos, not one detail has ever been overlooked. Her process is seamless and she makes everything so accessible and easy.

She offers so many options for photo opportunities and has perfected a style that really is timeless! She was so wonderful with each of my children when they were newborns, that it made the experience so worth it! Couldn’t recommend enough!"

Melissa

14 / 15

"It’s hard for me to find the perfect words to describe what Sharon has given me.

I reached out to her when I was thinking about doing maternity photos, and she quickly convinced me that I would not regret it. She was right. Not only do I not regret my maternity photos but I actually love everything about them. Every time I look at them, all of those amazing feelings I felt while I was pregnant come right back as if I’m still in the moment. They are something I will cherish forever."

Kimberly

15 / 15

Kind Words

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