Fall Minis!!!

Every year, we come to this part of the summer and I think, “Dang, how are we here already???” But, here we are…. We’ve got some repeat options this year and a few new offerings as well. Hang in there till the end of this post for the newest Mini option this year!!

A little business right up front: this will be the last year that I will be offering Fall and Holiday Mini sessions at the same rate as previous years. Currently, investment for minis is:

$195 (plus 6% sales tax) - includes an online gallery and 5 digital images, with the option to view and purchase more.

Inflation is crazy. Everything is costing more and more and I’m trying really hard to balance keeping costs fair for my clients while also charging fair market value and covering my cost of doing business. Next year, all mini’s will start at $225. Just wanted to put out a fair warning for my loyal and long-term clients. I am so, so grateful for you and I hope that I can continue to document your memories and hold them still forever.

Ok, blah blah blah. Back to the THIS YEAR!

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Field Sessions - September 27th-29th

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I’m always obsessed with a great field for photos - so this year, I thought we’d pop into one to capture you and your family. These are perfect for families, couples and pets!! Cloudy or golden hour, I’m confident we can get some amazing images for you to hold on to and enjoy forever.

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Overlook Park - October 11th and 13th

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Overlook Park in Lancaster, PA is one of my favorite spots. The parks’ little magical tree grove always serves as the perfect backdrop for any type of session. This spot will be perfect for fall or dressing it up a bit for some holiday feels.

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Fort Hunter - October 25th-27th

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Always an old standby, Fort Hunter never disappoints. This is a great option if you’re looking to capture you and your family surrounded by all the Fall vibes.

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Tree Farm - November 1st-3rd

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For those of you looking for something a little more “holiday-ish”, Tree Farm Sessions are a great option! We’ll find a little corner of this farm and capture you and your family in a playful way.

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Minute Minis - November 16th

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This year, we’re trying something new. Minute Minis! These sessions will literally be 3-5 minutes in length and will come with 2 digital images (with the option to purchase more if you please). These are perfect for those of you who just want a Christmas Card photo. They will be quick and (hopefully) painless. If you’re interested, mark your calendars for Saturday, November 16th and book your spot now! Session investment is $100 (includes an online gallery and 2 digital images). These sessions will be held in a park in Mechanicsburg.

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If you’re not seeing a location you love or have scheduling conflicts on various dates, please reach out to me! I’m always happy to do custom mini sessions (the cost is 250 for a 15 minute session and includes 5 images) in your home, or at a venue or location of your choice! Feel free to shoot me an email at katie@holdinglifestillphotography.com to inquire! Look forward to seeing you and your family soon!

Farm Session Minis

I’ve been doing this job for almost 18 years (how is that possible!?!??!). In those 18 years, I’ve shot in hundreds of locations. But you know when a place just gets in your bones??

Enter this sweet little farm outside of Hershey PA. I have a client who has booked me for a session at their family farm almost every year for the last few years. It’s never worked out for me to offer this location to other clients for various reasons but I could not be more excited to tell you that the stars have all aligned and we are a GO for using this stunning backdrop for Summer Mini Sessions this year!!!

Let me allow the photos to speak for themselves…

I mean - how amazing is this place!?!?! (Also, how gorgeous is this family??)

I seriously cannot wait to document you and your favorite people at this gorgeous spot. Perfect for couples, seniors and families!!

2023 Fall and Christmas Minis

It always seems like a whirlwind, but this year - dang. This year has really flown by. Between getting used to a full time job aside from also doing photography full time, moving, having a baby and getting used to life as a family of 3, things have been wild!!

But all that aside - here we are - time to book mini sessions yet again!! We’ve got FOUR options for mini weekends this year - but don’t let that fool you into waiting to snatch up your spot - spaces will be super minimal due to time constraints, so don’t wait too long to book your session!! Pricing for minis is 195 - this gets you a 20 minute session and 5 digital images with the option to purchase more as always.

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Pine Grove Lake Minis

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I haven’t shot here very often, but after my last session here last fall, I’ve been itching to get back. Fuller Lake provides the perfect glassy backdrop for some dreamy golden hour without taking too much attention away from you and your family. These sessions only work in the evenings, so spaces will be super limited since I’ll only be able to do 3-4 sessions a night. Weeknight options could work as well as these will be done early fall when it’s still light until 7pm, so if you’re up for a weeknight, contact me and let me know and we’ll set you up with a weeknight slot!

Dates for these sessions will be September 29th, 30th and October 1st.

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CAPTIOL SESSIONS

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We all know I’m a sucker for Downtown Mini’s. And this year, we’re still heading downtown, but we’ll only be shooting at the Capitol Complex. These sessions provide the perfect backdrop for a slightly more dressed up feel, but are also great for a casual vibe if that suits your family better. I promise, you’ll love them.

Dates for these sessions will be November 3rd, 4th and 5th.

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Christmas tree farm minis

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If you’re looking for a backdrop that obviously screams Christmas, these simple tree farm sessions are the perfect fit! This sweet little tree farm is nestled right in the middle of Mechanicsburg, and while I’ve shot here several years, it never gets old.

Sessions at the tree farm will run October 20th, 21st and 22nd.

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historic shady lane minis

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Shooting here last year did not disappoint, so I had to go back for another go round this year. These indoor minis will go down as some of my favorites ever. These sessions will be 225 rather than the 195 since I have to pay to rent the facility, but I promise, you’ll be so glad you snagged one of these sessions!!

Dates for these sessions will be November 18th and 19th.

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There we have it! Don’t see what you’re looking for?? Send me a message and we can dream up a personal mini just for you. See a spot you love, but can’t make the date work? Send me a message and we’ll do our best to make it work!! Cannot wait to see you and your family soon!

Mother's Day Mini's {Greenhouse Sessions}

Mother’s Day Mini sessions are open for booking!!!

I could not be more excited about these sessions! If you’ve never been to Hueter’s Greenhouse, you’re in for a treat. Seriously - it’s an adorable greenhouse surrounded by the most beautiful plants, pottery and decor and I promise you’ll fall in love with it.

The dates for these sessions will be March 13th and March 19th. Mini-session prices will be the same as last year - 195 for approximately 20 minute session, and include 5 complimentary digital images with the option to purchase more through your online gallery.

Note before booking: Because I’ve had to reserve a time slot for this location, sessions will be back to back with no wiggle room at all, so please make sure you’re coming a few minutes before your scheduled time so we can start right away!!

Can’t wait to see you there!!!

Christmas Minis 2021

It’s that time of year again!! It may be a million degrees outside right now, but Christmas is not too far away and Christmas Mini Sessions are officially open for booking!

We’ve got a few options this year and I’m equally giddy about all of them!!

We’ve got a new great spot this year - a gorgeous brick pathway leading up to a stunning old white farm house built in the 1800s, a pond with a dock, a gorgeous old barn, a gravel pathway shaded by trees and a beautiful property to walk around and explore during our 20 minute session! Dates for this location will be October 23rd and 24th, and October 30th and 31st. I don’t have any client photos here yet but, dang, I’m excited about it!!

The next option is a local tree farm in Mechanicsburg, PA. I did some sessions here last year and had so much fun walking around the farm and snapping in the rows of Christmas Trees. The dates for these will be September 25th and 26th and November 13th and 14th.

And, once again, I’m making some downtown sessions available because - well, because I love them so, so much. Dates for downtown Harrisburg sessions will be September 24th, October 22nd November 6th

Investment for this years sessions is 195 - this includes a 20 minute session, 5 digital images and an online gallery with many more photos to choose from.

Sessions usually fill up fast - make sure to grab your spot soon for any (or all ;) ) of these sessions!!

I truly consider it an honor to be able to document these moments and memories for you and your family. If you’re new here, I cannot wait to meet you! If I’ve had the privilege of snapping images for you and your family before, I seriously cannot wait to see you all again!!

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To book your farm house session on October 23rd, October 24th, October 30th or October 31st, click the Farm House button below:

To book your Christmas Tree Farm session on September 25th, September 26, November 13th or November 14th, click the Christmas Tree Farm button below:

To book your Downtown Harrisburg session on September 24th, October 22nd or November 6th, click the Downtown button below.

Summer Creek Minis

Summer Creek Minis will go down in history as some of my very favorite sessions of all time. Picture you. You, the people you love, warm sunshine and crisp cool water. These sessions are my favorite because they’re really just me getting to capture you right now in this stage of life. There will be a few posed shots at the beginning of your session…

…but for the most part, prepare yourself and your fam to come, have fun, laugh a lot and get wet :) ALSO! These sessions aren’t just perfect for families with small children. Couples!?!? Senior sessions?? Where you at?? Scroll down to book!!

Click the button to reserve your spot!

Summer Creek Mini-sessions 195 (plus 6% sales tax) and are approximately 20 minutes in duration. All sessions include 10 complimentary digital images, and an online gallery. Options to order more digitals and prints is always available.

Choose your time on either June 19th, June 27th, July 3rd or July 24th. Please note: The BEST time to shoot is the hour right before sunset. I've opened up slots a little earlier than that incase you have kiddos that have early bed times - but would definitely recommend anything after 7. An invoice and contract will be sent to you within 24 hours to complete your booking.If you have any additional questions, please contact me! Looking forward to documenting these memories for you and your family!

Mother's Day Minis - New Plan...

Welp - even the best laid plans go awry sometimes, eh?

I was so, so excited about Mother’s Day Mini’s at the adorable greenhouse pictured in the last post. Unfortunately, that option has disappeared due to some issues on the vendor’s end. I scrambled to find another greenhouse to use, but since this is busy season for most nurseries, we came up terribly short on the greenhouse front. SO!! NEXT YEAR!! Brace yourself for some seriously adorable mini’s at another greenhouse that I’ve shot at multiple times.

BUT! This year, not all hope is lost. Mother’s Day Mini’s have been rescheduled to one of my favorite little spots in Lancaster - a dreamy grove of trees dropped in the center of a park.

I think the thing that excites me most (aside from the seriously gorgeous golden hour light that pours through the trees) is that this location strips away distractions and will give us a chance to make you and your sweet littles the focus of the session. There will be a cute bench or chair but aside from that, we’re going to make it about capturing your moments - tickle wars, kisses and laughs included. :) This is also a great spot for older kids - the last location lent itself a little more towards young children, but this spot will be perfect for all ages. Look forward to seeing you there! Grab a spot below while you still can!

For those of you who have booked mini’s with me before, we’ve changed up the platform this time around. Click the link below, find the date out of the three that work for you, and click the time you prefer! An invoice for your deposit and a contract will be sent to you within 24 hours of selecting your time. You can contact me here with any questions! Can’t wait to see you in a few weeks!

Mother's Day Minis

Oh my heart. When I stumbled across this little gem, I instantly envisioned sweet images of Mom’s and their littles (or not so littles) in this space. I couldn’t be more thrilled that this spot was available for booking for 2 upcoming weekends.

These sessions will be perfect for Mom’s and their kids. Dad’s, you’re welcome to tag along - I’d be happy to pop you into an image or two as well, but the focus will mostly be on Mom’s as well as individuals of the kiddos. Also, would LOVE to start documenting more grandparent moments and I think this dreamy little spot would be the perfect place for capturing those memories. You’re more than welcome to bring them along! (i.e. please, please, please bring them along!)

Sessions will be held on April 24th & 25th, as well as May 1st and 2nd. Investment is $195 (plus 6% sales tax) and will come with access to an online gallery for you to be able to choose your favorite images. 10 complimentary digital images are included with this session.

Keep scrolling to snag your spot! Spaces are super limited, so don’t wait too long to book!

For those of you who have booked mini’s with me before, we’ve changed up the platform this time around. Click the link below, find the date out of the three that work for you, and click the time you prefer! An invoice for your deposit and a contract will be sent to you within 24 hours of selecting your time. You can contact me here with any questions! Can’t wait to see you in a few weeks!

Winter Creek Session

A lot of us shy away from doing sessions during the colder months - but why!!?!?! True confession: I’m kind of obsessed with them. It may be a little chilly, but we can still have a blast. Don’t put off a session waiting for warmth - capture the moments the way they are right now. I promise you won’t regret it.

We even managed to sneak some puddle jumping into our session!! It’s the little moments like this that make a shoot so memorable and exciting. Pro tip: embrace the random and the act of going off the cuff. They may just end up being some of your favorite images of the day.

L's Maternity Session

Still obsessed with these images from this winter maternity session. I’ve had the pleasure of working with this couple since through their engagement, wedding and now as they’re getting ready to welcome their sweet baby girl into this world. I will never get over the fact that I have the honor of walking through life with so many amazing souls.

Enjoy scrolling through a few of my favorites from this maternity session.

Logan's Senior Session

Another stunning senior. Logan was an absolute DREAM to photograph. We had a blast hanging out at one of my favorite spots to shoot near Boiling Springs, PA. Enjoy a few faves from her senior session.

PRO TIP: bring along your family for a few quick snaps with them during your senior session. You’ll be so glad you did!

Fresh 48

Fresh 48 will always and forever be my favorite. I love all other sessions, but there’s something so real and honest about Fresh48. Watching Mom’s and Dad’s fall in love with their new little, watching them learn how to hold and snuggle them - it’s honestly magical.

Headshot Session

Headshot sessions are some of my favorite sessions. Here’s a few quick snaps from a recent session with this queen. Sarah is a singer and needed these images to audition for an opera in Washington DC. We had a blast hanging out downtown and grabbing these shots. Enjoy!

Washington, DC Memorial {engagement session}

This will forever be one of my favorite sessions. The sun was just beginning to rise. It was beyond freezing. But S & T absolutely rocked it.

PRO TIP: choose a spot that’s sentimental to you as a couple. Having a location that means something to you both will make the photos even more special and significant to you. Talk to your photographer about your ideas - we always want to hear what you have in mind!!

PRO TIP for photographers: Did you know you need to have permits to shoot at National Memorials? You can get fined an insane amount of money if you don’t have one. The online process is super simple, but can take a few weeks, so make sure you plan ahead!!! It also costs money to obtain a permit, so make sure to budget that into your cost when quoting a price to inquiring couples!

Alright - enough business talk. Enjoy scrolling through a few of my favorites from our sunrise session at the Lincoln Memorial.

A & S {carlisle, pa maternity session}

These two. You can almost feel their excitement and anticipation about meeting their new babe right through these images.

Also, props for bringing their sweet pup, Willow. To be fair, right after these adorable snaps, she took a deep dive into the lake at Boiling Springs - right in the section with all the green muck. Thankfully we had gotten plenty of images with her and her parents before this!! And we’ll always chuckle about that infamous moment.

Which reminds me:

PRO TIP: Please, please, please bring your animal friends to your photo session (unless your animal friend is a snake. Then please don’t. ;) ). You’ll be so, so happy to have images of them throughout the years. BUT!!! To make your session run smoothly, I always recommend bringing someone to be assigned to dog duty during your session. They’ll be able to keep your pup occupied while we do photos of you, while also being able to snap their leash off for a couple quick photos while you focus on following my prompts and being in the moment.

That’s it. That’s all.

Enjoy feeling all the feels while you browse through these images.

Izzy's Senior Session

I love to write. I have entire bookshelves full of journals. So, I’m not quite sure how I’m so incredibly terrible at blogging!

2021 goal: do better at updating my blog.

To kick things off, throwing it back to a session with this gorgeous lady (who also happens to be my sister :)).

We loved getting to pal around Rochester, NY together, snapping pics at random locations (I mean, a botanical garden, murals, a 50’s themed diner and a gorgeous golden hour all in one session?? Dreams do come true!)

Pro tip - paying a little extra to go to multiple locations will always pay off. You’ll have so many amazing backdrops to choose from. We’ll make a day of it and it’ll be so worth it. :)

Anyways. Enjoy! :)

2020 Christmas Mini Sessions

Here we are again, friends. Can you believe we’re even starting to think about Christmas!??!!

This year, I had grand plans for themes and locations for Christmas Minis. But if 2020 has taught us anything, it’s taught us to be flexible (am I right, though???). So, here we are. Being flexible.

In order to keep us all safe this year, I’ve decided to keep things simple and limit props, mini set ups and the indoor location I had planned on. We’re going to keep things outside in the fresh air. Because of this, I’ve decided to offer two different locations for sessions this year.

One set of dates will be reserved for us to return to Downtown Harrisburg and continue exploring State Street. Even if you joined in on these sessions a few years ago, I promise we will be able to get some images that feel fresh and different. We’ll let the city provide our backdrop and spend our time focusing on capturing you and your family without the aide of any props - although you’re more than welcome to bring your own!!

Keep scrolling for some samples and for Option#2!

The other set of dates will be reserved for an outdoor farm location in Mechanicsburg - so if greenery, barn doors, old stone walls and dirt roads are more your style, these will be the sessions for you. (keep on eye out on Instagram for more photos from this spot in the next few weeks).

Again, please keep in mind that in order to stay safe and try to do our part to stop the spread of Covid-19, minimal props will be provided. You are free to bring your own (i.e. Christmas banners, Christmas signs, etc).

Continue below to book your Christmas Mini Session! I am so very excited about both of these locations and even more excited to have the honor to capture some more memories for you and yours this year.

Mini Sessions in the Creek

Whew. 2020 has really been something, eh? I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s thrilled to be back into the swing of things and feeling a bit more normal. :) AND I’m super excited to be throwing out a few dates for summer mini-sessions in July!!

This year, we’re headed down to the Yellow Breeches Creek in Mechanicsburg. I want to be sensitive to all of us attempting to stay safe and healthy, so this felt like a perfect option. These sessions will be mainly focused on you and your people having a fun evening splashing and playing in this fresh water creek.

Before you go thinking that these sessions are only for kiddos - I promise, this will make an incredibly dreamy spot for couples, for pet portraits or even for solo portraits. Trust me on this one. You won’t be disappointed.