








Our San Diego Mini Sessions are held at some of the most scenic beaches, parks, and outdoor locations, making it easy to update family portraits, celebrate milestones, announce engagements, or simply capture this season of life. With gorgeous natural light, relaxed guidance, and a stress-free experience, you’ll look and feel your best in every frame.
If you’re looking for a longer session, or you have a larger family, take a look at our Lifestyle Session, which is tailor-made for bigger groups, more time, and a location of your choice.




Hi there – I’m Alan Merrigan – I photograph weddings, elopements, families, and portraits – basically anywhere people want to look like themselves instead of awkward mannequins.
My vibe is keeping it light and real. I’ll give you a little direction when you need it (because let’s face it, lots of people freeze up in front of a camera), but mostly I’m just catching the moments that actually matter. The laugh that happens between poses. The way you look at each other when you think no one’s watching.
If you’re looking for stiff, formal portraits where everyone’s standing at attention… I’m probably not your guy. But if you want photos that feel like your actual life – the good parts, anyway – you found me!
We offer San Diego mini sessions at a variety of beautiful locations, so you can choose the backdrop that fits your style best. Popular options include beach sessions at La Jolla, Sunset Cliffs, Oceanside Pier, and the Coronado Dunes. For green, garden settings, Balboa Park, Discovery Lake, and Walnut Grove Park. Other, seasonal locations are available too – check out the specific options just above.
Choose clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. For family portraits, it looks best to coordinate with 2 or 3 similar colors, that avoids being too matchy-matchy. Think soft, neutral tones and comfortable clothing that lets you move easily – especially important for kids who like to explore and play.
Because our mini sessions are designed to be easy, fun, and genuinely worth it. We know how to make the most of a short session – guiding you smoothly, keeping things relaxed, and capturing real smiles instead of stiff poses. Sometime the “little ones” have a short attention span and that’s where Mini Sessions shine! We also know the best San Diego locations, lighting, and timing to create beautiful images fast. The result is a stress-free experience and photos that feel natural, polished, and full of personality. Want proof? Check our reviews here.
You’ll receive an online gallery with the best edited images from your session, and you’ll choose your favorites from there. Most mini sessions include 20 images, with the option to purchase additional photos if you’d like more. You can download your favorites and choose images for prints, albums, or wall art if you’d like.
Booking is very simple – just choose your preferred mini session date and location just above on this page, complete the brief form, and submit your paperwork to reserve your spot. Once you’re booked, we’ll send everything you need to prepare, including session details, tips, and what to expect.