August Feels, Fall Minis & Fairground Magic

Hi there,

August always arrives with that “last splash of summer” feeling. The days are still long, but there’s a gentle shift in the air—one that makes me crave apple cider, layered outfits, and golden-hour light through changing leaves.

While I’ll miss the barefoot evenings and backyard giggles, I can’t help but feel excited… because fall is my favorite season to photograph. Let’s make the most of this in-between time together.

🍂 Fall Mini Sessions Are Here!

Yes—it’s that time already! 🍁
Fall minis are my most requested sessions of the year, and if you love cozy sweaters, vibrant trees, and quick, joy-filled photos with your favorite people, you’ll want to reserve your spot now.

✨ This year’s minis are called “Beneath the October Trees” and will be held on:
Sunday, October 12 & Sunday, October 19

Sessions are short and sweet—just enough time to capture the warmth of your family in that magical autumn light.

🎁 Book before August 31 and receive $50 print credit
(great to use towards holiday cards)

Slots are already filling, so head over to the booking page and claim your favorite time.

🎡 Photo Tip of the Month: Capture the Magic at the Minnesota State Fair

Whether you’re in it for the cheese curds, crop art, or giant slide, the Great Minnesota Get-Together is packed with photo opportunities.

Here’s how to make your fair photos pop:

• Golden hour is your friend: Aim for photos in the hour before sunset—the light is warm, flattering, and dreamy.

• Tell the story: Snap those sticky-fingered moments, half-eaten cones, and family giggles between rides.

• Frame it creatively: Use colorful signs, cotton candy stands, and Ferris wheel lights as your backdrop.

• Go in close: Capture the details—tiny hands holding food, messy faces, or that spark in someone’s eyes when they win a prize.

Want an easy way to preserve those snapshots? Ask me about turning your State Fair favorites into a keepsake print. I’d love to help you bring those memories to life.

🐾 Studio Update: Pet Sessions Now Available!

One of the most meaningful additions to my studio this year: dedicated pet photography sessions.

After losing my sweet Onyx, this became a passion project close to my heart. Whether it’s a senior dog you’ve loved for years or a new kitten just finding their voice, your animals are family—and they deserve to be celebrated too.

🐶 Cats, dogs, and all furry friends welcome.

Add a pet session to your family shoot, or book a special portrait just for them.

🧶 Other Happenings at the Studio

• 🛍️ I’ll be at the MN Christmas Market!
  Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 22 at Union Depot—I'll be one of the vendors at this beautiful holiday pop-up.
  A little early to think about Christmas? Maybe.
  But it’s only four months away—and the handmade goodies and cozy photo gifts make it totally worth it!

• 📷 Savvy Shutterbug Workshops
  Beginner-friendly photography classes are happening now! Whether you're hoping to understand your camera better or build a passion into a creative skill, check out what's new at savvyshutterbug.com.

• 🖼️ Memory Displays & Holiday Gifts
  Keep an eye out for new seasonal print and frame options coming soon. I’m curating beautiful display kits for the holidays, and newsletter readers will be the first to know.

💛 You Belong Here

Whether you're celebrating a season, a milestone, a memory—or just want to freeze a fleeting moment—thank you for inviting me into your story.

Every single session I photograph reminds me how lucky I am to do this work. So as the season begins to turn, I just want to say:

You are seen. You are valued. And you always have a place at my studio.

Let’s create something beautiful this fall. 🍂
Warmly,

Giliane Mansfeldt
Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC
📸 giliane-e-mansfeldtphotography.com