Front Porch Minis | South Bend, Indiana + Beyond
My First-Ever Front Porch Minis
The first ever Front Porch Minis were a huge success.
I loved every minute — from the quiet time spent in my car listening to podcasts between stops, to exploring new corners of our community I’d never been to before. I got to meet new families and reconnect with old clients who feel more like friends now.
And the best part? The comfort. From the moment I pulled up to each house, I could feel it — families totally at ease, kids relaxed, and everyone just being themselves. It made for some of my favorite photos to date.
Cozy Porch Session at a Wooded South Bend Home
This sweet crew has been in front of my camera for six years, and they were a huge inspiration behind the idea for Front Porch Minis. We’ve spent many sessions on this gorgeous porch and along their stunning wooded lane, so it only felt right to bring the minis to them.
My drive-by session this time wasn’t nearly enough to catch up properly (I could’ve stayed all afternoon chatting), but it was enough to create a big, joy-filled gallery.
And yes — still the cutest. Always.
Playful Brothers at a South Bend At-Home Mini Session
One of the biggest surprises from my first round of Front Porch Minis? How comfortable and relaxed the kids were.
I photographed a lot of little boys and girls, and they warmed up almost instantly — probably because they were right at home in their happy place.
This family’s session was the perfect example: two energetic boys with big ideas of their own. For some kids, it was blanket stacks or silly faces — but for these two? It was climbing the front yard tree. And honestly… why not? Let them enjoy their pictures too!
Joyful Family Mini Session in Niles, Michigan
This family brought so much fun — and all the giggles.
Their two silly boys were pure energy, and one of them even showed off a big ol’ lipstick smooch from Mom right on his cheek. I couldn’t have planned that moment if I tried!
These are the kinds of details I love most — the spontaneous, real-life snippets that tell the story of a family just being themselves.
Sunshine-Filled Front Porch Photos at a New South Bend Home
New digs, new memories!
Front Porch Minis fell at the perfect time for this new-to-LDP family to show off their beautiful new home. We soaked up the sunshine, captured genuine smiles, and celebrated all the excitement that comes with fresh starts.
Wishing this family so many new adventures in their new space — I have a feeling they’ll make some pretty wonderful memories on that porch.
Nostalgic Front Porch Session in a Charming South Bend Neighborhood
This stop gave me all the nostalgia feels.
Their beautiful old home sits in a charming South Bend neighborhood that brought me right back to when I was first married. I used to ride the River Park bike trails past Notre Dame — hardly crossing a street — and this neighborhood was right along that path.
Needless to say, it made me miss our old house near the river in Mishawaka (oh, the memories).
Photographing their three little girls, including a sweet newborn, was such a departure from my usual pace — soft, gentle, and totally heart-melting. Loved. Every. Second.
Comfort, Connection, and Community
After this first round of Front Porch Minis, one thing was clear: at-home photography has its own kind of magic.
Families were comfortable. Kids were confident. And for me? It was a joy to witness connection in its most natural setting — right where life happens.
I can’t wait to do it again soon.
Who knows — maybe your front porch will be next?