Newborn Photography in New Ulm & Mankato, Minnesota

capturing your baby's first days with care, artistry, and love.

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Welcoming a new baby is beautiful — and overwhelming all at once.
Your newborn session shouldn’t add stress to an already emotional season.

At Jennifer Brandes Photography, newborn photography is calm, intentional, and centered entirely around your baby’s safety and your peace of mind.

With over 15 years of experience and specialized newborn safety training, I care for every baby as if they were my own — so you can relax, breathe, and simply enjoy this time.

A calm, full-service newborn experience focused on safety, trust, and connection.

From the moment you step into my rural New Ulm studio, everything slows down.

Some parents nap.   Others enjoy a movie, make a cup of coffee, or grab a snack from the studio snack bar.

When that happens, I know you feel comfortable — and that’s exactly how it should be.






A Calm, Full-Service Newborn Experience

Every newborn session includes:

  • A warm, private studio setting
  • All props, wraps, outfits, and accessories
  • A fully guided, unhurried experience
  • Care that prioritizes safety, comfort, and trust

There are no rushed sessions here. Every family deserves more than ten minutes.

Parents often tell me:

“I didn’t expect to feel this relaxed.”
“I could actually enjoy watching this.”
“I’m so glad we did this.”

I’ve been photographing newborns professionally since 2010, and I continue my education every year to ensure I’m providing the safest, most thoughtful experience possible.

Beyond training and experience, I’m also a mother myself — and I understand the anxieties that come with handing your brand-new baby to someone else.

My goal is simple:
for you to feel confident, supported, and completely at ease.


That trust is never taken lightly.

Experience You Can Trust

What Newborn Sessions Feel Like

Parents often tell me how reassuring it feels to watch someone handle their baby with calm confidence — knowing their newborn is being cared for with experience, patience, and genuine love.
This isn’t about rushing through a checklist of poses.
It’s about creating space for you to be present, breathe, and trust the process — while I take care of the rest.

Newborn sessions here are unhurried and gentle — designed around your baby, not a clock.
You don’t need to know how to pose.
You don’t need to worry if your baby needs to eat, be held, or soothed.

Every movement is intentional.
Every transition is slow and thoughtful.

More Than a Newborn Session

While newborn photography is where our journey often begins, many families continue working with me throughout their baby’s first year.

Watching these babies grow — and welcoming families back year after year — is one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

I offer Grow-With-Me Collections designed to capture:

  • Smiling milestones (3–4 months)

  • Sitting (6–8 months)

  • First birthday celebrations

Grow
With

Me

Serving Families Across Southern Minnesota

My studio is located just outside New Ulm, Minnesota, in a quiet rural setting — ideal for families who value privacy, easy parking, and a calm environment.

I regularly work with families from:
New Ulm, The Greater Mankato area, Southern Minnesota, 
throughout a 60-mile radius and beyond

Many of my clients travel specifically for the experience, care, and consistency I provide — and I’m honored every time they do.

When should you book your Newborn Session?

Book your session early, before your baby arrives.

Guarantee your spot.

Your due date.

Your life will be full once baby arrives.  Book your session early, and mark it off of your checklist.

I only book a limited amount of newborns each month.  This allows me to be flexible with accommodating baby's arrival.

Once your session is booked, we use your estimated due date as your session placeholder.  When baby arrives, we will then schedule your session within 10-21 days.

Book Your Newborn Photography Session Today

Spots are limited each month to ensure I can give each family the attention they deserve. If you’re expecting, reach out during your second trimester to reserve your session.

CONTACT ME   >>
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION  >>

When should you book your newborn session?

Book your session early, before your baby arrives.

Guarantee your spot.

Your due date.

Your life will be full once baby arrives.  Book your session early, and mark it off of your checklist.

I only book a limited amount of newborns each month.  This allows me to be flexible with accommodating baby's arrival.

Once your session is booked, we use your estimated due date as your session placeholder.  When baby arrives, we will then schedule your session within 10-21 days.

Book Your Newborn Photography Session Today

Spots are limited each month to ensure I can give each family the attention they deserve. If you’re expecting, reach out during your second trimester to reserve your session.

CONTACT ME   >>SCHEDULE A CONSULT  >>

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

When should I book my newborn session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What should I wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How long will it take to see my gallery?

How do I order my images & products?

It is best to book your newborn session once you've hit your 2nd Trimester.  This ensures you will have a guaranteed spot on the calendar when baby arrives.

newborn session q&a

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

When should I book my newborn session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What should I wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How long will it take to see my gallery?

How do I order my images & products?

Simply send me an email to start the process.  
Your signed session agreement and session fee are required to confirm your booking.

newborn session q&a

FAQ:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What should I wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How long will it take to see my gallery?

How do I order my images & products?

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

It is best to book your newborn session once you've hit your 2nd Trimester.  This ensures you will have a guaranteed spot on the calendar when baby arrives.

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

You can fill out a contact form, or simply send me an email.  Your session fee and signed agreement are required to confirm your booking.

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

Everything needed for a successful newborn session is at the studio.  All props, bonnets, headbands, wraps, etc. will be provided for you.
If you have anything sentimental that you wish to include, you are welcome to do so.

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

Before your session, you will receive a full guide to help you prepare, as well as help you choose what to wear.

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

The best time for those newborn poses is before baby is 3 weeks old.  
Babies older than 3 weeks can still be wrapped, however, posing them in the sweet curled poses may not be possible.  You will get more awake and wrapped images in your gallery.
I also love Milestone sessions for babies 3 months and up if you feel that you've missed your window.

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

You will see your finished gallery within 1-2 weeks after your session!

Your Questions:  Answered

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


When should I book my newborn photography session?

How do I book my newborn session?

What should I bring to my session?

What Should I Wear?

What if my baby is already born?

How Long Will It Take To See My Gallery?

How Do I Order My Images & Products?

You have an option to schedule an Ordering Appointment where you have my one-on-one guided assistance to help you choose your images and products. 
- OR -
You have the option for an online gallery and make your selections in the comfort of your home.

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!

- Raelin

Kind

What new parents are saying

Happy

Clients.

words from

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.

- Anquelic

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What new parents are saying

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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!

- Marie

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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!

- Danielle

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What new parents are saying

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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%!

- Brandy

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What new parents are saying

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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! 

- Macy

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What new parents are saying

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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.

- Lindsay

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

- Megan

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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.

- Tiffany

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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.

- Victoria

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What new parents are saying

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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!

- Jenn

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Memories
Beautiful
we're going to Create