Sacramento Fall Mini Sessions 2026: Dates, Locations + Everything You Need to Know

It’s that time again! 🍂 Fall Mini Sessions are officially back for 2026, and I have some of my favorite Sacramento-area locations on the calendar this year.

And yes, I know. September in Sacramento doesn’t exactly scream cozy fall. 😂 We may still be showing up to our sessions with the AC blasting, but the light starts getting prettier, the evenings get a little cooler, and before we know it, we’re right in the middle of my busiest photo season of the year.

Whether you’re overdue for updated family photos, want something for your holiday cards, or just want to document what your family looks like right now, Fall Minis are a short and sweet way to make it happen.

2026 Sacramento Fall Mini Session Locations

One of my favorite things about minis is getting to offer a bunch of different locations throughout the season. You can choose something that actually feels like your family rather than every session having the same “fall photo” look.

Here are some of the locations on the calendar for 2026:

Nimbus Overlook

Wide-open views, golden grasses, and the prettiest glow as the sun starts to set. Nimbus has that dreamy, slightly wild Northern California feel and plenty of room for kids to move, play, and snuggle.

Carmichael Olive Tree Grove

One of my favorites for a warm, earthy look. The rows of silvery-green olive trees and filtered light give this location an almost Mediterranean feel while still keeping everything relaxed and natural.

William Land Park

Big trees, soft golden light, and plenty of room for little ones to run and play. This beautiful location gives us that classic outdoor feel with just the right touch of fall.

Desert Cactus Garden

Want something a little different? 🌵 The cactus garden has gorgeous texture, warm earthy tones, and a more modern, funky feel than your traditional fall location. It’s such a fun option if you want your photos to stand out.

Sutter’s Fort

Sutter’s Fort gives us charming architecture, warm textures, and so many different little pockets to photograph in. It has a cozy, timeless feel and is a great option if fields and greenery aren't really your thing.

UC Davis Arboretum Redwoods

There’s something magical about photographing underneath these huge redwoods. 🌲 The trees filter the light beautifully and give us a rich, woodsy backdrop that feels completely different from most Sacramento locations.

UC Davis Arboretum Fall Colors

This side of the Arboretum is all about being surrounded by fall color. 🍂 The walking path winds along Putah Creek beneath trees glowing in shades of gold, orange, and red, giving us beautiful fall foliage in every direction. It’s one of my favorite locations for that cozy, colorful fall feel because instead of having a few pretty trees in the background, you’re completely enveloped in the season.

And these are just some of the locations you’ll see throughout the fall season!

What’s Included in a Fall Mini Session?

Fall Minis are $375 and include:

• A 20-minute photography session

• 15 fully edited, high-resolution digital images of your choice

• The option to purchase additional images for $25 each

• The option to upgrade to your entire gallery for $100 when you book ($150 after your gallery is delivered)

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Mini Sessions are limited to 5 people total. If you have a larger family or want more time and flexibility, a Full Session will probably be a better fit.

Weeknight vs. Weekend Mini Sessions

Here’s one of my favorite ways to save a little money on fall photos: book a weeknight!

Weekend sessions have an additional premium:

Weekend morning sessions: +$25Weekend golden hour sessions: +$50

Weeknight golden hour sessions give you that same beautiful evening light without the weekend premium. If your family's schedule allows for it, they're one of the best values on my fall calendar.

Are Mini Sessions Enough Time for Family Photos?

Yes! Twenty minutes may sound fast, but you’d be surprised by how much we can capture.

I keep things moving and give you plenty of direction, so you don't need to show up knowing what to do with your hands or somehow convince your children to behave perfectly for 20 minutes. 😂

We'll get the photos where everyone is looking at the camera, but we'll also make time for snuggles, movement, playing with your kids, and all those little in-between moments that usually end up being some of my favorites.

The shorter session can actually be a huge bonus for little ones who aren't interested in participating in an hour-long photoshoot.

Can We Bring Our Dog?

Please do! 🐶

Well-behaved dogs are always welcome at locations where pets are permitted. Just let me know beforehand that you're bringing your pup and bring some favorite treats so we have a little bribery available when we need it.

They’re part of the family too, and I’m always happy to include them.

What Happens if It Rains?

I become slightly obsessed with the weather forecast this time of year. 😂

If rain is showing up in the forecast, I'll keep an eye on it and reach out to talk through our options. I generally don't make a final call more than three days ahead of time because Sacramento weather can change so quickly.

Whenever possible, I prefer waiting until the night before, when the short-term radar gives us a much better idea of what we're actually dealing with.

When Will We Get Our Photos?

Your proofing gallery will typically be delivered within two weeks of your session.

You'll choose your included 15 images from there, purchase additional favorites individually, or upgrade if you decide you can't narrow it down. (It happens. 😉)

What if None of the Fall Mini Dates Work for Us?

If you can't find a Fall Mini that works with your schedule, don't worry! Full Sessions are available year-round and give us more flexibility with the date, location, number of people, and overall pace of your session.

But if you do see a Fall Mini date and location you love, I wouldn't wait too long.

September through December is by far my busiest time of year, and availability becomes much more limited as we get closer to the holidays.

Ready to Book Your 2026 Sacramento Fall Mini Session?

If you've been telling yourself this is the year we're finally updating our family photos, consider this your sign. 🤎

Pick the location that feels like you, grab a date that works for your family, and I'll take care of the rest.

VIEW 2026 FALL MINI SESSIONS + BOOK YOUR SPOT: https://book.usesession.com/i/TYYtStMVr

I can't wait to see so many returning families this fall, and hopefully meet a few new ones, too. 🍂

Have questions before booking? Reach out anytime at info@tinaswainphotography.com.