Sometimes, all it takes is 20 minutes, a sunny day, blooming spring trees—and your family—to create unforgettable memories. That’s exactly what we did during this spring mini session at Washington Lake Park to celebrate baby Lillie’s first birthday.


The Crowley family are long-time friends of Helen Merz Photography and no strangers to the camera. From maternity portraits to milestone sessions, they’ve trusted me to capture their growing family through the years—and this session was extra special. With spring in full bloom, we met at Washington Lake Park in South Jersey to document this sweet season of life.

A Mini Session Full of Personality


Lillie brough her signature expression, adorable scowls followed by giggles and applause. Vivie's joyful spirit was on full display as she dashed through the trees in between photos. And Norah, the oldest, embrased her moment with model-level confidence, striking poses and showing off her floral outfit.


Even Mom and Dad joined the fun and walked away with heartwarming family portraits featuring all three girls, yes, even after a bit of toddler wrangling! 😉 These are the candid, personality-filled moments that make mini sessions so meaningful.

A family poses together under pink cherry blossoms in bloom during springtime.
Vintage wicker throne chair photographed outdoors with beautiful pink cherry blossoms in spring.
Family standing together under blooming cherry blossoms in grassy field during springtime photo session.
A round wicker peacock chair sits beneath blooming cherry blossom trees on a spring day.
A springtime portrait under blooming pink cherry blossoms with a white sweater and headband.
A child wearing white sweater and jeans sits on a vintage peacock wicker chair with pink cherry blossoms in background.
A peaceful spring scene with a wicker peacock chair beneath flowering cherry blossom trees.
Cherry blossoms frame a touching outdoor spring portrait under pink blooming trees.
Two children pose together near cherry blossom trees, one sitting in a woven peacock chair wearing white and pink.
Spring family photo under blooming cherry blossom trees with pink petals.

Why Book a Private Mini Session?


Private mini sessions offer all the benefits of a full session—in less time. They’re perfect for busy families, milestone moments like birthdays, or anyone who wants beautiful, professional family photos in South Jersey without the long time commitment.

📸 Short and sweet: 20-minute sessions with stunning results

🌸 Seasonal locations: Hand-picked for gorgeous natural backdrops

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 All about your family: No distractions, no crowds—just your crew

🖼️ Timeless keepsakes: High-quality images you'll treasure for years


Let's Create Something Beautiful Together


If you’re thinking about updating your family portraits, celebrating a birthday, or just capturing your kids as they are right now—a private mini session might be just what you need. Click here to check availability and start planning your portrait experience with Helen Merz Photography.