Are Minis Right for You

Is a Mini Session Right for your Family?

Mini sessions can be great, but they aren’t the right choice for every family! People love minis because they’re quick and more affordable than a full session. This is true, but there are some things to think about before booking your mini. I’ve personally done both mini sessions and full sessions for my own family. With my kids being young, I do tend to prefer full sessions to give us more time but both have worked well or us in the past! Regardless of what type of session you decide on, my goal is always to make you smile when you open your gallery 🤩

WHAT ARE MINI SESSIONS?

Mini sessions are condensed photo sessions typically offered at specific times throughout the year. These sessions are shorter in duration compared to full-length photoshoots…usually about 15 minutes in length. Minis are designed to capture a few key shots efficiently, making them ideal for families seeking a quick and less expensive update to their family photos.

PROS OF MINI SESSIONS:

1. Time Efficiency: Mini sessions are perfect for families with busy schedules who may not have the time for a lengthy photoshoot. With shorter session times, you can quickly get beautiful photos without taking up a significant portion of your day.
   
2. Cost-Effective: Compared to full-length photoshoots, mini sessions are often more affordable. This makes them a great option for families looking to stick to a budget while still obtaining professional-quality photographs. You receive a limited number of images, but that allows you to have the professional experience at a lower price.
   
3. Variety: Despite their shorter duration, mini sessions can still yield a variety of images. Great photographers (me 😊) have posing workflows that allow them to quickly capture a wide variety of photos! It’s amazing what you can do in 15 minutes!

Drawbacks OF MINI SESSIONS:

1. Limited Time: The condensed timeframe of mini sessions means there’s less flexibility for exploring various poses, locations, or creative ideas. Families seeking a more personalized and extensive photoshoot experience may find mini sessions too restrictive. With a mini, you’ll get the basic poses but if you want to allow me to really get my creative juices flowing, then a full session may be a better fit. My favorite images are those showing connection and interaction between family members. This usually requires taking time to warm up and get comfortable with one another. With a mini session, we will get the basic poses but likely won’t have time to get to the more natural and playful images.
   
2. Limited Availability: Mini sessions are typically offered on specific dates and times, often around holidays or special occasions. Securing a slot that fits your schedule can be challenging, especially during peak seasons when many families are vying for the same time slots.
   
3. Less Individual Attention: Due to the shorter duration and potentially larger number of clients, photographers may have less time to devote to each family during a mini session. This could result in less personalized attention and fewer opportunities for customizing the session to your family’s preferences.

DETERMINING IF MINI SESSIONS ARE RIGHT FOR YOUR FAMILY:

1. Consider Your Schedule: Consider your family’s schedule and availability. If you have limited time but still want updated family photos, a mini session could be a convenient option.
   
2. Budget Considerations: Evaluate your budget for photography services. Mini sessions often offer a more budget-friendly alternative to full-length photoshoots, making them appealing for families looking to save money.
   
3. Photography Preferences: Think about your preferences regarding photo session length, variety of shots, and level of customization. If you prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness over extensive customization, a mini session might be a good fit. If you want time to let me get in my groove and get those creative juices flowing, a full session may be a better fit.
   
4. Children’s Needs: If you have young children who may struggle with longer photoshoots, a mini session could be a more manageable option. The shorter duration can help keep children engaged and cooperative during the session. BUT…if your kiddos are slow to warm up and take time to get comfortable, then a full session may be a better option. A lot of families think a mini will work better because they don’t think their kids will “last a full session”. However, sometimes it’s better to go for a full session to allow kids time to get comfortable. With my style of photography, they aren’t just standing and posing like robots. They’re exploring and having fun along the way.
   
5. Photographer’s Style: Research the style and portfolio of the photographer offering mini sessions. Ensure their aesthetic aligns with your preferences and that you’re comfortable with their approach to photography.

Final Thoughts

Minis can be a fantastic option for families seeking a quick and affordable way to capture beautiful memories through professional photography. By weighing the pros and cons and considering your family’s specific needs and preferences, you can determine whether mini sessions are the right choice for your family’s next photo session. Whether you opt for a mini session or a traditional photoshoot, the most important thing is to cherish the memories captured and enjoy the experience with your loved ones 😊

Are you ready to schedule your updated family photos?

Are you hoping to update your family portraits this year? Visit my webpage HERE for additional information. You can view my booking site HERE to view my availability!

Hey, there! Thank you so much for reading today’s blog entry. I’m Lindsey and I provide newborn photography and family photography to families in Western Chicago. My style focuses on capturing natural connection and providing clean and timeless images that you will treasure forever