What is a Mini Session?
Have you ever wondered what a Mini Session is? If so, you have come to the right place! A Mini Session is exactly what it sounds like- a shorter version of a regular photo session, typically lasting anywhere from 20-30 minutes. These sessions are ideal for families and couples who want a quick, but effective photoshoot that delivers gorgeous, picture-perfect photographs!
Why Book a Mini Session?
There are MANY benefits that come along with Mini Sessions! Here are some:
Time: Mini Sessions are not long! This can be beneficial, especially for families with younger kids, or couples who want a few beautiful photos together!
Money: Mini Sessions are significantly cheaper than regular photo sessions. This is an affordable option if you are looking to save some money, but also obtain 20+ glistening photos to treasure forever.
Holiday Cards: Mini Sessions are PERFECT for taking holiday photos with your family or loved ones! They are often scheduled around holiday times, for this very reason! Additionally, they are great for seasonal-themed pics- fall, winter, spring, summer.
Where do Mini Sessions Occur?
What’s great about Mini Sessions is that they are scheduled at a specific place and time. During the holiday time, these sessions are often scheduled at a local Tree Farm, so that clients can receive the perfect holiday backdrop! Your photographer will 90% of the time choose this location for you, with families and couples coming and going at certain time slots. What is great about this, is that there is no travel fee involved! What all you need is to secure a time for these pre-determined dates, and you will be all set! Pretty neat, huh?!
What do I Wear to a Mini Session?
I always want my clients to feel as comfortable as possible on camera! With this being said, wear something that will make you feel this way. As I always suggest for my photo sessions, try to wear clothes that have light and soft colors, as I base my photography on sunlight. I would stay away from clothes with crazy patterns, darker colors, and bold prints. Plains and florals are always my go-to! Since this is a fun day to be behind the camera, why not dress up?! For women, I suggest long or short dresses (maxi dresses are my favorite!) or flowy tops. For men, I suggest wearing a button up shirt, khakis, and oxford shoes. These are just some of my favorite looks, so please choose to wear what you please!
If these are holiday or Fall photos, I suggest dressing to the theme, but still choosing outfits that fit the “light and airy” look to ensure glistening, romantic photos. Cohesion is definitely important, as well. For more suggestions, be sure to check out my blog post, “What do I wear to my Light and Airy Photoshoot?”
What do I Bring to a Mini Session?
I never want my clients to stress about attending a photo session with me. With that being said, I always come prepared with props! The day of your session, I will have props available for you and your family to use if you would like. For holiday photos, for instance, I will bring along signs, decorations, wreaths, etc. for you to choose from.
If you are not comfortable using props that others have touched or wish to bring your own, feel free to bring them along!
Other Information:
Prepping the Kiddos: Especially in colder temperatures, please make sure to dress kids appropriately- sweaters, jackets, blankets, etc. Before each session, please plan for your younger children to get in their naps and eat a filling meal. Please feel free to bring anything else that may help your child feel more comfortable during a session (such as their favorite toy, etc.)
Timing: Please be aware that each Mini Session is booked back to back, so there is limited time in between each session. Because of this, it is important that you show up on time for your session. Unfortunately, I will not be able to extend your session past the time listed in the contract. Arriving 5 minutes before your time slot would be ideal. Additionally, please be aware that if you are arriving early, other sessions are taking place, so please be respectful to other couples and families. An audience could distract the young ones during a session, so it would be helpful to keep some distance before it is your turn.
Safety: In between each session, I will be using hand sanitizer. It will be available for families and couples as well. I will also be wearing a mask during your session, and the tree farm is big so you will not have to worry about keeping your distance with others!
I always look forward to meeting new and familiar faces during these sessions! They are not only short and affordable, but also a fun way to spend time with the ones you love…and have it captured forever!
