What is a Mini Session?

Mini sessions have become wildly popular over the years and there are several good perks as to why! First, let’s do a quick explanation of what a mini session is:

For many lifestyle photographers, a typical portrait session is around 60-90 minutes. Full portrait sessions require more thought and planning, outfit and location changes. A mini session is a shorter photo session, somewhere around 15-30 minutes, that is held on a pre-chosen date and location decided on by the photographer. The purpose of a mini is to get a handful of great, updated photos with less fuss and production. People who book a mini are typically the ones looking for “just a few updated photos.” While you may get some candid moments in a mini session they’re usually done quickly, and there is no wiggle room for outfit or location changes. This makes minis ideal for things like yearly updated photos of the kids, holiday cards, a senior who HATES having their photos taken, an anniversary session, or a few updated headshots!

Are there perks to a mini session?

-They’re affordable! I think many of us are living on a budget and a prayer, while also trying to fit in the things that really matter to us. Mini sessions allow folks to have beautiful photos while also staying within their budget. Let me tell you, no one wants to spend “an arm and a leg” on anything other than maybe, well, an arm and a leg lol. However, products and services do have to be priced appropriately in order to make a profit and prevent businesses from falling apart. A mini session is a great way to meet in the middle and make everyone happy!

-They’re quick! This especially comes in handy when you have members of your family who aren’t super fond of picture day! But most people can handle 15-30 minutes which is the perfect amount of time for families with young kids, husbands who don’t want to be there, shy teenagers, headshots, or anyone who just wants some updated photos without a huge production.