Calling All Fairies: The Fairy Tale Project Has Arrived
There's something I've been quietly dreaming up in the studio, and I'm finally ready to share it with you. Grab your wings, here we go!
It's called The Fairy Tale Project. This is a curated, limited-spot portrait series for the little ones who still believe in magic. If you've got a tiny human who twirls in tutus, talks to the trees, listens to the whispers of the wind, or insists fairies live in the garden, keep reading. This one's for her.
And, honestly, if you’re a not-so-tiny human (mama’s wanting to join in on the magic), this is for you as well.
Here are some things to know before reserving a spot.
It's a Curated Portrait Series
The Fairy Tale Project isn't your standard mini session- we all know I don’t do minis around here. This is a true fine art series.
Thoughtfully styled, intentionally themed, and created with the same care I'd put into any gallery piece. Every image is composed to feel like it was pulled straight from the pages of a storybook, not snapped in a rush between naptime and dinner.
Because it's curated, I'm only offering this to a small number of fae.
That's intentional; it keeps the series cohesive, gives every child the time and attention she deserves, and means the final prints and artwork feel genuinely special, not mass-produced.
It's Made For Little Fairies
This project is designed specifically for children between the ages of 4 and 11. They are old enough to follow directions and have fun with make-believe, but still young enough that the wonder hasn't worn off yet.
Whether she's four and still deep in her tutu-every-day phase, or eleven and just discovering she loves being magical and in front of the camera, this session meets her right where she is. Young siblings can explore the magic together, as well.
*That being said, I know maturity levels differ with each child. So, if you have a fairy that doesn’t fit in the age box, let’s chat. Also, if you are a mom and want to join in too, let me know during our phone call.
Must-Haves and Optional Accessories
I want to make this part easy for you, because I know wardrobe can feel like the most stressful part of photos.
The Golden rule: bring your little fairy dressed in her favorite flowy tutu or pastel colored dress, preferably a light solid color. That's the must-have: something soft, twirly, and a little dreamy is what brings her fairytale to life.
Wings, crowns, and other accessories? Totally optional.
If she has a pair of wings she loves or a little flower crown she refuses to take off, bring it along; I'd love to include it. But if she doesn't, don't stress. I have a small assortment of wings, crowns, and flowy pieces here in the studio, and we can build onto her look on the day of the session.
The only thing I truly need her to bring is her imagination (and that flowy dress).
Bare feet are cute, and shoes are optional. But, if we meet at an outdoor park, shoes or sandals are a must for walking around. Who knows what she could step on, or in.
Studio, Outdoors, or a Mix of Both
Every fairy's magic looks a little different, so this session isn't locked into one location.
If you love the idea of a dreamy, controlled-light, themed set complete with climate control and no wind, we can play in my cottage studio. Where the lighting, backdrop, and every little detail are designed to make her feel like she stepped into another world. Pixie Dust included.
If your little one is more of a wild-and-free spirit, who wants to run through bubbles and pine trees, we can take the session outdoors instead, into the scenery that looks like it belongs in a forest fairy tale.
Or, my personal favorite, we do a little of both. Start in the studio for a few polished, storybook portraits, then head outside to let her run, twirl, and hide in her own nature-inspired tale. The mix usually makes for the richest, most varied gallery.
Stock image of flower crowns
If You Choose Outdoors, I Have Magical Spots, Scouted
One of the biggest perks of booking with a local photographer is that I already know where the magic is hiding. Here in the High Desert and Inland Empire, there are more whimsical, storybook-worthy backdrops than people realize. You just have to know where to look.
A few of my favorite options for outdoor Fairy Tale Project sessions:
Wrightwood, Mescal Picnic Area— tall pine trees that feel like they belong in a fantasy film. Golden hour light through the branches is pure magic. There’s a cute bridge to wander through as well.
Mojave Narrows in Victorville — a surprisingly tiny pocket of green with water, tall grass, and shaded trails that feel worlds away from the desert. We can frolic around and see what feels perfect for us.
Oak Glen — apple orchards, rustic barns, and winding country lanes that feel plucked straight from a fairy tale, especially in the cooler months. You can go apple picking afterwards.
Prospect Park in Redlands — Gorgeous old trees, winding paths, and historic charm that photograph like something right out of a storybook. This is best for a weekday, weekends can feel hectic.
The redwood grove at Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Chino Hills — yes, real redwoods, right here in the Inland Empire. Filtered light and lush greenery make this one feel completely otherworldly.
Rockview Park in Victorville — small meadowy area, mature trees, and a river that catches gorgeous light. It’s a little hidden gem for locals.
William Penn Park in Whittier —a secret fave of mine. It has tiny waterfalls, lots of greenery, a bridge, and a wall that is as close to a castle as we can get. Lots of magical options here.
Depending on the vibe you're going for — desert-magic, enchanted forest, or secret garden- we'll pick the location that fits her personality best.
*If you choose a mix of studio and outdoors, the “on location” spots will be around my property.
Siblings Are Welcome, Too
Fairy tales are always better with more fairies. If your little one has a brother, sister, or cousin who wants in on the magic, sibling sessions are available as part of this project.
Whether that means a shared portrait of two little fairies side by side, or a solo moment for each child within the same session, I can build that into the time with me. Just let me know when you reach out so I can plan the timing accordingly.
This goes for mom, too. If you want to play along, we can plan everything during our phone call.
Spots Are Extremely Limited
Because this is a curated series and not a regular session, I'm only accepting a small handful of little fairies into this project. That's it. Once those spots are filled, applications close until the next round.
This isn't a scarcity gimmick — it's genuinely how I plan to protect the quality of the work. Ten sessions only means I can give each child real creative attention, properly style and edit her gallery, and make sure the final artwork is something you'll treasure for decades.
If this sounds like something your little one will love, don't wait too long to reach out.
Storybook spots like this tend to fill fast, and once we hit 10, that's a wrap until the next Project opens up.
Ready to reserve your daughter's spot in The Fairy Tale Project?
Send me a message and let's talk about which spot is hers- studio, outdoors, or a little bit of both.
I’m waiting to hear what magic we will create.
Cheers,
Annette
