Mini Session Guide
Choosing a type of session can be overwhelming – do we need a full hour? Is a short session enough for my crew? Who is a mini session really meant for? Let’s break mini sessions down and answer some common questions. We’ll walk through what mini sessions are, how long they last and the deliverables from them, how to prep your kids, if you can bring pets, what to wear, when to arrive, and how posing works!
Here’s everything you’ll need to know before booking a mini session so you can relax, have fun, and get the most out of your time!
What are Mini Sessions?
Mini sessions are short, sweet, and full of personality. They’re a time to capture you and your loved ones just as you are – laughing, playing, enjoying time together. Mini sessions are exactly what they sound like – short and sweet photo sessions offered at a smaller rate. I’m able to offer them affordably because they take place on specific dates that work best in my calendar and are scheduled back-to-back. That way, you get a quick, beautiful set of updated photos, and I’m still able to meet my hourly rate. Grouping mini sessions together allows me to offer a lower-priced option for families who just need a handful of fresh photos without the commitment of a full session.
How Long Is a Mini Session and How Many Photos You Get?
A session is between 15-20 minutes and depending on the Minis Session I am offering at the time, you’ll receive 5-10 photos to keep! You are always welcome to upgrade your gallery to the full download for the current upgrade price. Upgrading to the full download is only available after the photos have been delivered from your session.
How to Prepare Your Kids
What you tell your kiddos before the shoot makes all the difference! When you say things like “make sure to smile” or “be on your best behavior,” it pulls kids out of the mindset of having fun and into a mindset of “sit still and smile”. The best photos I get are ones where kids can be kids! Let them know things like “We’re going to meet a photographer named Rachel tonight! She’s excited to hang out and we’re going to play games and have fun!” Talking like this really helps them stay comfy for family sessions. Once we start, all YOU have to do is enjoy being together!
Can We Bring Pets?
Absolutely! Well-behaved pets are always welcome. They’re part of your loved ones, and I love capturing those sweet connections. Just make sure to take them for a walk right before your session so they’re calm, comfortable, and ready to join the fun. For outdoor mini sessions, all pets are welcome. For indoor mini sessions, please make sure that your pets are well trained. This means that they are not going to accidentally pee in the studio. It happens, we roll with it, but please try to gauge if your pet is ready for an indoor session or not!
What to Wear for a Mini Session
Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident! There’s no strict dress code, but if you’d like some inspo, many groups like to pick 2–3 main color tones that complement each other rather than match exactly. Since minis are short and sweet, we’ll stick to one outfit – no outfit changes! Choose something you can move easily in and feel great wearing.
How Early Should We Arrive?
Arriving 10 minutes early is perfect! It gives you time to park, gather everyone, and get settled before your session starts. Mini sessions move quickly, so a little cushion helps you feel relaxed and ready right from the first click. On mini session days, I remind people that we may get a little behind, so having flexibility of up to 10 minutes is important when booking your time slot. We may start a little early if we are running smoothly that day, we may start a little late if we’ve encountered hiccups!
Do I Need to Prepare Any Posing?
No poses! Just real moments. The best moments are the candid ones so just be yourselves! I’ll also guide you through simple prompts that feel easy and natural. These sessions are about genuine connection, movement, and fun! We’ll take a few posed photos with everyone and then we’ll get you walking, talking, dancing, grooving – anything for a candid photo!
Wrapping Up
I always have so much fun during mini sessions. My favorite moments are the unplanned ones – the real laughter, the soft smiles, the little in-between moments that tell the story of “right now” best. I love capturing your natural selves and creating images that feel like you. If you’ve been thinking about booking a mini session, I’d be honored to photograph you. Can’t wait to capture memories together. (:
XO, Rachel
