Jennifer Brandes

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Designed specifically for Maternity, Newborn & Baby Milestone Sessions.

THE STUDIO  |  SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

southern minnesota newborn & family photography studio.  Newborn photography near me.  Greater Mankato area photographer.

You are welcome to schedule a studio visit anytime to see everything in person.  Even if you're unsure about booking a session, you're welcome to visit and talk with me about what you are envisioning.

If a quick, 15-20 minute phone call works better for you, we can connect that way, also!

Tucked away in rural Southern Minnesota, this private studio offers the kind of peace and comfort that makes every session feel exclusive — a truly elevated photography experience for your growing family.  Just minutes from Mankato, Minnesota, my private photography studio offers a peaceful retreat away from the noise and busyness of the city.  Surrounded by open fields and soft natural light, it’s a space where families can truly relax and soak in this special season of life.

Inside, you’ll find everything needed for a luxury newborn, maternity, or child photography session — from an extensive collection of wraps, bonnets, and handcrafted props to flattering gowns and timeless accessories for moms. Parents can unwind with fresh coffee, beverages, and snacks, get cozy in the seating area, or even watch TV while I gently photograph your baby.

My full-service studio is designed to make your experience effortless and enjoyable. You don’t need to bring a thing or worry about the details — simply arrive, settle in, and let me take care of everything. Every detail, from temperature control to soft background music, is intentionally chosen to create a calm, safe, and stress-free newborn photography experience for both parents and baby.

53620 422nd Street
New Ulm, MN

Welcome to my FAVORITE place in Southern Minnesota.

A badge symbolizing publication in the Photograp{HER} Magazine .
Badge for being published in the Bold & Beautiful Magazine.

My favorite things

1 2 3

family

Four children posed during golden hour in Southern Minnesota.

I whole heartedly believe that my sole purpose on this earth was to be a mother to these four amazing humans (and to create incredible artwork).  I thank God everyday for blessing me with each one of them, and giving me the opportunity to spend my earth time with them.

Being the oldest of four, I am also so grateful for the relationships that I have with my siblings.  They are, hands down, my best friends.


coffee fanatic

mankato area newborn & family photography, southern minnesota photographer

I never turn down an invite for coffee & good wholesome conversation.
Communication is so good for the soul, whether you're the speaker or the listener.  Whether it be enjoying the sunrise on the front porch, or chatting with a friend at the local coffee shop, a nice hot cup of joe seems to make every situation seem a bit better.
I am also one that will stop and read coffee mugs at boutiques.  I have way too many to properly display, but I can remember the story as to where they've all come from!

summer nights

mankato area newborn & family photography, southern minnesota photographer

Most evenings in summer, you will find me sitting around a fire, taking in all that I have been blessed with.
I find it incredibly peaceful to listen to our children telling their stories, with the crackling of the fire as their background music.
S'mores and cocktails are the perfect treat to finish out those busy summer days.

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Vanessa

Jennifer Brandes Photography provided us with a beautiful experience that we will cherish forever. Jennifer is not only incredibly professional and talented, but also extremely patient, kind, and thoughtful. She pours her whole heart into her work and her clients feel it.
She made our gender reveal so memorable! Sharing in that moment of our soon to be son, all the way to his newborn photos, we truly could not have imagined a more perfect experience. She made us feel comfortable, celebrated, and completely present in such an important season in our lives. We are beyond grateful for the memories she captured of our growing family.
Thank you, Jennifer for sharing your talent with the world.

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Raelin

We hired Jennifer for a Fresh 48 session, where she was able to capture one of the most special moments of my husband's and my life - big brother meeting little brother for the first time! To say these photos are our favorite photos of all time is an understatement. We loved them so much, we quickly booked a newborn session with her. She once again blew us away with some of the most beautiful, precious photos of our son (& family). We would highly recommend her!

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Anquelic

My experience with Jennifer Brandes Photography was absolutely beautiful from start to finish. The process leading up to the session was smooth and stress-free. Jennifer was incredibly kind and patient with my fussy toddler, which made such a difference. She took her time and ensured every shot and angle was just right. I’m truly grateful for such a relaxed and enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for a photographer who delivers extraordinary work, I highly recommend booking Jennifer Brandes Photography.

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Marie

Thank you for taking R's photos! It was amazing to see someone so gifted in action. Plus, it was wonderful to meet you as well.
We are so grateful!

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Danielle

Hands down THE BEST!!!!!
Jen is the most wonderful person and photographer. She is so kind, warm and welcoming. Her beautiful studio and collection of props and outfits make sessions seamless, which is so appreciated when you're a tired new parent. She has an amazing way with newborns; soothing and calming throughout, while being SO patient with them.
Not only is the experience amazing but the final product is breathtaking! We did maternity and newborn photos and were speechless with the results! Such precious memories we will cherish forever.
There is no better option than Jennifer Brandes Photography!

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Brandy

Jennifer photographed both of my last 2 babies and did family pictures for our large family of 8. Here are some of the things I loved about Jennifer Brandes Photography:
1) Jennifer is very professional and made the sessions feel very relaxed. It can be stressful getting out the door with a newborn or getting a large family ready and cooperating for family pictures; but Jennifer made everyone feel relaxed and the sessions were fun!
2) The images she captures are stunning! I was confident we would have pictures we would love when we booked with her.
3) She was flexible with rescheduling when my toddler had hand foot and mouth when we were supposed to have family pictures taken.
4) She worked within my budget and ensured I got what I was hoping for.
I would recommend her 100%!

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Macy

Absolutely amazing experience. I wouldn't have trusted anyone else this much with my newborn. Jennifer made us feel right at home in her studio and I enjoyed watching from behind the scenes. She really is a baby whisperer! Thank you again for such great memories! 

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Lindsay

Working with Jennifer truly was a dream. She is so remarkably talented and our photos turned out amazing. As a first time mom, things like taking your newborn out can be nerve-racking, but Jennifer made it so relaxed and comfortable. She didn't make me feel rushed or bad when E didn't want to go to sleep. She took her time and let E lead the appointment. 100/10 recommend and will be coming back with any future babies.

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Megan

I LOVED my newborn pictures of my baby boy!
She was patient, gentle and artistic with each set. Highly recommend Jennifer Brandes Photography!

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Tiffany

Jennifer was phenomenal with our newborns! We will be able to look back at these beautiful photographs for years to come! She captured stunning, beautiful images of our girls.

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

Kind

Beautiful baby boy wrapped in a hand knitted  green wrap with matching bonnet.
- Victoria

Highly recommend Jennifer!! From the very beginning as she welcomed us into her studio! Absolute amazed with her work and the passion and love she has for newborns!! She is the baby whisperer ! Made me felt welcome, and handled my daughter with so much care.

words from

Clients.

Happy

What new parents are saying

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Beautiful baby girl posed on a peach backdrop with matching headband.
- Jenn

Jennifer took newborn photos of my 2 week old daughter. She was so gentle and patient with her. My daughter was happy and comfortable during the entire session.
The studio is warm and inviting with a nursing rocker for breastfeeding moms. The photos were just beautiful! Jennifer was professional, friendly and promptly responsive to all communications. I am very satisfied; it was well worth the investment.
I would highly recommend!

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