A snowy mother-daugther portrait session near Montreux, Switzerland
Some photo sessions are calm and quiet.
Others are full of movement, laughter, rosy cheeks… and a little bit of snow flying everywhere.
This one was definitely the second kind.
In early December, Julia and her four-year-old daughter were visiting Switzerland from the US for a special girls’ trip. Between discovering snowy landscapes and soaking in the magic of winter near Lake Geneva, they decided to capture this moment together with a portrait session — not stiff or posed, but real, joyful, and full of connection.
And honestly? It was an absolute blast.
A Winter Wonderland Just Outside Montreux
We met in a beautiful snowy area just outside Montreux, where fresh snow covered the ground and the mountains felt calm and quiet — the kind of winter scenery that makes you want to slow down and play at the same time.
Instead of forcing poses, we explored.
We walked, ran, laughed, and yes… we even went sledding down the slope together.
For kids especially, a photo session shouldn’t feel like a photo session. It should feel like an adventure. A game. A moment where they can just be themselves — and that’s exactly what happened here. Giggles echoed through the snow, little boots left trails behind us, and Julia and her daughter shared the kind of natural moments that can’t be staged.
Those are the moments I love capturing most.
Capturing Real Mother–Daughter Moments
This session was all about connection:
small hands, spontaneous hugs, shared laughs, and that beautiful, unspoken bond between a mother and her child.
Julia later shared how meaningful the experience was for her — not only because of the photos, but because of how relaxed and fun the whole session felt. From location scouting to adapting the pace to her daughter’s energy, everything was designed to make them feel comfortable, supported, and fully present.
And the result? Images that don’t just show what they looked like in Switzerland — but what it felt like to be there together.
Kind Words From Julia
Visiting Switzerland and Want Photos That Feel Like You?
in the meantime, here are more photos from this beautiful portrait session:
Hey there!
I’m Maaike Jansen
Your Swiss adventure & portrait photographer, mountain nerd, and calm-in-the-chaos guide.
I help families, parents, and wild-hearted souls capture real, joyful moments in Switzerland — from snowy mountain adventures to playful, love-filled sessions that feel more like an experience than a photoshoot.
Hey, I'm Maaike
Portrait & Adventure Photographer in Switzerland
I’m a Swiss-born mountain lover based near Montreux, photographing portraits, families, and meaningful moments all across Switzerland and the Alps.
I help families, parents, and travelers turn a simple photo session into a relaxed, joy-filled experience — whether that means playing in the snow, exploring a quiet forest, wandering along a mountain trail, or simply slowing down together in a beautiful natural setting.
With my background in event coordination, my deep local knowledge of the region, and a calm, patient approach (especially with kids), I take care of the planning, timing, locations, and little details — so you don’t have to think about logistics, weather changes, or “doing it right.”
You can simply be present, enjoy the moment, and let your connection unfold naturally.
Switzerland Portrait & Family Photo Sessions
I’ve created relaxed, experience-focused portrait sessions for families, parents, solo travelers, and couples who want more than “just photos” — they want memories that feel like their time in Switzerland.
During your session, you don’t just get a photographer following you with a camera.
You get someone who gently guides the experience, adapts to your energy (and your kids’ moods), and creates space for real connection, laughter, and movement — so your images feel natural, joyful, and deeply personal.
My Switzerland Portrait Sessions include:
✓ Flexible session lengths, from short mini sessions to extended adventure-style shoots
✓ The Full Maaike Jansen Experience :
Your session is photographed as it naturally unfolds — playful moments, quiet cuddles, laughter, movement, and all the beautiful in-between details. I focus on candid, emotion-filled images, with gentle direction when needed so you never feel awkward or stiff. You’ll receive a beautifully curated online gallery with high-resolution images, unlimited downloads, and full printing rights, so you can relive your memories and preserve them however you wish.
Whether you’re visiting Switzerland or live nearby, I help you choose the perfect location for your session — from snowy mountain landscapes and peaceful forests to scenic viewpoints near Montreux and Lake Geneva. I take care of scouting, timing, light considerations, and weather planning, so everything flows naturally. You’ll also receive guidance on what to wear, how to prepare, and what to expect, with flexible backup options if conditions change.
My approach is calm, patient, and adaptable — especially for family sessions with young children. There’s no pressure to perform or pose perfectly. Kids are encouraged to move, explore, and play, while parents can simply be present and enjoy the moment. The result is a session that feels easy, fun, and genuine — and images that reflect your real connection.
✓ All travel costs included anywhere in Switzerland — no hidden fees, ever.
Portrait sessions start at CHF CHF 495
Mini sessions, extended sessions, and custom experiences available.
No added travel costs. No hidden fees of any kind.
Reach out & we’ll start planning your portrait session
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