Mini sessions are popular this time of year – and for good reason! If you’re looking for just a few photos for the Christmas card, social media profile, headshot for work, or graduation/engagement/pregnancy announcement, it can be perfect. It is also a great way for photographers to be able to serve more than one client a day, allowing them to serve more people during the busy months. For all the reasons a mini session can be a benefit, it is also not the perfect fit for everyone. Here are some considerations when deciding if a mini session is right for you.
What are your photo expectations?
If you are looking for just a couple of photos, this is exactly what a mini session is for. However, if you have a specific list of shots that you want captured, a mini session is probably not the best fit. Before a session I always ask what the top two or three shots are and do my best to accommodate them. Mini sessions move far quicker than you think. It’s simply not possible to go through a detailed shot list such a short period of time.
A mini session might be right for you if you’re looking for just a few images, a short wish list, and are willing to go with the flow of a fast, less predictable session.
A mini session might NOT be right for you if you have a longer, more specific list of images in mind, and don’t feel comfortable with the unpredictability of a shorter session to accomplish them in.
What is your budget?
Everyone has a budget, and it can be hard to justify a want on a laundry list of needs. If you’re on a budget, a mini session can be an excellent fit. If there is a photographer that you love but is out of your price range, a mini session can be a great option to get photos without breaking the budget.
How flexible are you?
Mini sessions are scheduled on specific days at specific times. If your scheduled is packed, a mini session might not work. A full session allows you to look over my calendar and pick a date that works best for you.
In addition to being on a set date, minis are stacked which means punctuality is SO important. If you’re always running late to things, a mini session might be a big source of stress. If you are late, your photographer will be unable to honor any lost time because there is someone else whose spot is directly after yours. You would have less shooting time if you were late, potentially having to forfeit your session altogether depending on the length of the session. A mini session might be perfect if you’re confident you can get everyone ready, out the door, and to your session before it starts. If you’re honest with yourself and know that situations often come up delaying you from getting out the door (mom of three here, I completely understand!), a full session might be right for you.
What are the personalities of the people you want to include?
Minis are a quick get in and get out kind of situation and work well for some people. For others, both kids and adults may need some time to warm up, take breaks, etc. Taking photos can be uncomfortable, just like anything we don’t do on a regular basis. A mini session might be right for you if you’re okay capturing your kids just how they are (even if it’s not smiling), climbing, jumping, etc. Or, if you, your significant other, and/or your kids are all very outgoing and cooperative.
A mini session might NOT be right for you if you want more opportunity to capture the exact photos you want, or have a difficult or high energy child and are not confident that the shots you want could be nailed during a small time frame. Keep in mind that this is one of the advantages of a full session! Kids and adults alike have time to warm up. We have time to burn off some energy and snag some amazing moments from your list.
Does the theme or location match your style?
A lot of mini sessions have themes, especially if they are held seasonally. If you are looking for a session with the whole family, a Mommy + Me mini isn’t the best fit. If you book a fall session, expect your images to have those gorgeous fall colors in the background. Before booking, make sure that the setting and any props are in line with your vision. A mini session might not be right for you if you want to choose your location, props, or the location you want isn’t being advertised.
There’s so many factors to consider when choosing between a mini and a full session. Hopefully these points give you a peek into some things to consider. Choosing the right type of session is key to setting your session up for success and getting images you love.
Are you thinking a mini session or a full session is a better fit for you?
If you want more ideas on how to plan your perfect session check out: