Jennifer Brandes

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A luxury newborn photography experience just 25 minutes from Mankato.

If you're looking for a newborn photographer in Mankato, you're closer than you think.

My private newborn photography studio is located just outside New Ulm, approximately 25 minutes from downtown Mankato. It's a quiet, comfortable space designed specifically for newborns and their families—with everything thoughtfully prepared for you.

From wardrobe and styling to wraps, props, and the little details that make your session feel effortless, I'll take care of it all.

You don't need to know how to pose. You don't need to bring a suitcase full of props. And you don't need to worry about whether your baby will cooperate.

You bring your baby. I'll take care of everything else.

Mankato Newborn Photographer

Mankato newborn photographer Jennifer Brandes - luxury newborn photography in a private studio near Mankato, Minnesota.

Everything is thoughtfully prepared. You just get to be present.

Learn More About the Newborn Experience →

Your newborn session should feel like something you get to enjoy, not another thing you have to manage.

From the moment you reserve your session, I'll guide you through the experience. You'll have access to a curated client wardrobe, beautiful newborn wraps and accessories, carefully selected props, preparation guidance, and a private studio designed with new parents in mind.

You don't need to know what to bring, what to wear, or how to pose. I'll help you plan the details ahead of time so you can arrive feeling prepared—and then simply slow down and enjoy this little season with your baby.

A Newborn Experience Worth the Drive

Relaxed newborn photography experience near Mankato, Minnesota.

There are wonderful photographers closer to Mankato. So why do families choose to make the short drive to my private studio just outside New Ulm?

Because the experience is different.

My studio is a quiet, private space created specifically for newborns and their families. There's easy parking, a comfortable place for you to relax, and everything you need for your session is already here.

From the wardrobe and styling to the wraps, props, and newborn setups, every detail is thoughtfully prepared before you arrive. There's no rushing from one appointment to the next and no wondering what you're supposed to bring or do.

I've had families travel more than two hours for their newborn portraits. That kinds of trust is something I never take lightly.  For families in Mankato, the drive is only about 25 minutes—and many tell me the relaxed, full-service experience is worth it.

Come for the photographs.  Stay for the experience.

Why Mankato Families Make the Drive

Newborn family photography near Mankato in Southern Minnesota.
Jennifer Brandes gently handling a baby during a newborn photography session near Mankato.
Jennifer Brandes using a baby-led approach during a newborn photography session near Mankato.

I've been photographing newborns professionally since 2010, and newborn safety has always been at the heart of my work. I have specialized newborn safety and posing training, as well as Basic infant and adult CPR/AED training.

My approach is baby-led. Your baby is never expected to simply “cooperate” for the camera. We take the time your baby needs for feeding, changing, cuddling, soothing, and settling. If your baby needs a break, we take a break. If something doesn't feel right, we change course.

Beautiful photographs are important—but your baby's comfort and safety will always come first.

You can relax knowing your baby is being cared for by someone who understands newborns, knows when to slow down, and has the experience to handle the unexpected.

Learn More About My Approach to Newborn Safety →

Experience You Can Trust With Your Newborn

I'll guide you through wardrobe, styling, colors, and all the little details so everything feels cohesive and beautiful.

PLAN YOUR SESSION

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Your baby sets the pace. We'll take our time for feeding, changing, cuddling, soothing, and all the little pauses newborns need.

ENJOY YOUR SESSION

04

CHOOSE YOUR ARTWORK

You'll select the images and artwork that best tell your baby's story and fit beautifully into your home.

05

We'll start with a conversation about you, your baby,  what you're envisioning, and whether we're a good fit.

SAY HELLO

01

Once you're ready to book, your estimated due date reserves your place on my calendar. When your baby arrives, we'll choose your actual session date.

RESERVE YOUR DUE DATE

02

From your first inquiry to the artwork on your walls, I'll guide you every step of the way.

YOUR MANKATO
NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

CHOOSE YOUR ARTWORK

05

You'll select the images and artwork that best tell your baby's story and fit beautifully into your home.

ENJOY YOUR SESSION

04

Your baby sets the pace. We'll take our time for feeding, changing, cuddling, soothing, and all the little pauses newborns need.

I'll guide you through wardrobe, styling, colors, and all the little details so everything feels cohesive and beautiful.

PLAN YOUR SESSION

03

RESERVE YOUR DUE DATE

Once you're ready to book, your estimated due date reserves your place on my calendar. When your baby arrives, we'll choose your actual session date.

02

We'll start with a conversation about you, your baby,  what you're envisioning, and whether we're a good fit.

SAY HELLO

01

From your first inquiry to the artwork on your walls, I'll guide you every step of the way.

YOUR MANKATO
NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

MACY
I wouldn't have trusted anyone else this much with my newborn. Jennifer made us feel right at home in her studio... She really is a baby whisperer!
DANIELLE
She is so kind, warm and welcoming. She has an amazing way with newborns; soothing and calming throughout, while being SO patient with them.
ANQUELIC
 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.
VANESSA
She made us feel comfortable, celebrated, and completely present in such an important season in our lives.
Your experience matters just as much as the photographs.
KIND WORDS

What Mankato-Area Parents Are Saying

The short answer:  as early as possible - ideally during your second trimester.

Newborn sessions are typically photographed within the first 10–21 days of life, when babies are often sleepier and naturally curled. Because I limit the number of newborn sessions I accept each month, dates can fill well before your baby arrives.

Here's how it works: your estimated due date serves as your placeholder on my calendar. Once your baby arrives, we'll schedule your actual session based on their arrival date and the available calendar.

Already had your baby? Reach out anyway. I can often accommodate last-minute newborn sessions when my schedule allows, and babies up to three weeks old can still be beautifully photographed. After three weeks, I'd love to talk with you about a milestone session instead.

When Should You Book Your Newborn Session?

Snacks, beverages and a comfortable space for you to relax.

THOUGHTFUL AMENITIES

White noise, soft music, and a calm space to help baby feel safe.

SOOTHING ENVIRONMENT

WARM & COZY

The studio is kept perfectly warm for your little one.

A peaceful, private setting away from crowds and noise.

PRIVATE & QUIET

Convenient parking right outside the studio entrance.

EASY PARKING

Every detail has been designed with your comfort and your baby's safety in mind.

The studio is located just outside New Ulm, Minnesota, approximately 25 minutes from downtown Mankato.

Set in a quiet, private rural setting, the studio offers something you don't always find in a busy photography environment: privacy, comfort, and room to slow down.

There's easy parking, a comfortable place for you to relax, and a studio thoughtfully prepared for newborns and their families. While I photograph and care for your baby, you can settle in with a cup of coffee, grab a snack, watch TV, or simply enjoy a quiet moment.

There are no crowds, no busy waiting rooms, and no need to worry about finding your way through a busy commercial studio.


A Private Newborn Studio Just 25 Minutes from Mankato

When should I book my newborn session?

I recommend reserving your session during your second trimester. Your estimated due date serves as your placeholder, and we'll schedule your actual session once your baby arrives.

Do you photograph parents and siblings?

Absolutely. Your newborn's story includes the people who love them most. Parent, sibling, and full-family portraits can all be incorporated into your session in a natural and beautiful way.

What if my baby doesn't sleep or is fussy?

That's completely okay. Newborns don't always follow a plan, and they don't need to. Your session is baby-led, so we'll take time for feeding, changing, cuddling, soothing, and whatever else your baby needs.

What should I bring to my newborn session?

Very little. Most of what you'll need is already waiting for you at the studio. Bring your baby, their essentials, and anything sentimental you'd like to incorporate. I'll take care of the rest.

Do you provide outfits and props for newborn sessions?

Yes! My studio is stocked with a curated collection of newborn wraps, bonnets, headbands, accessories, and props, along with wardrobe options for parents. I'll help you choose pieces that coordinate beautifully with your baby's portraits.

How far is your newborn photography studio from Mankato?

My private studio is located just outside New Ulm, approximately 25 minutes from downtown Mankato. Families throughout Mankato and the surrounding South Central Minnesota area make the short drive for their newborn sessions.

Large framed fine art newborn pictures displayed on a nursery wall showcasing the products designed by Jennifer Brandes Photography.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any specific questions that are not answered below.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

RESERVE YOUR DUE DATE

Your Baby's Story Begins Here

From your first inquiry to the photographs you’ll one day pass down, I’ll guide you through the entire experience—so you can slow down, enjoy your baby, and know that every detail is being taken care of.

The newborn days go by quickly. Let’s make sure you have something beautiful to remember them by.

Your Baby.  Your Story.  Beautifully Preserved.

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