Mini Session vs. Full Family Session: Which One Is Right for You?
One of the most common questions I get when clients reach out to book a family session is: What’s the difference between a mini session and a full session—and which one is best for my family?
It’s important to me that you have all the details you need to choose the session type that works best for your season of life, your schedule, and your vision. Let’s break it down together:
What is a Mini Session?
A Mini Session is short and sweet—typically lasting between 15–20 minutes. These sessions are offered on specific dates, at predetermined locations (often seasonal or styled), and are usually about half the cost of a full session. They’re ideal for:
Quick family updates
Holiday cards
Milestone moments
Gifts for grandparents
Because mini sessions move quickly, the pace is more fast-forward than laid-back. The goal is to get beautiful, high-impact images in a shorter window of time.
Best for: families who want a handful of updated portraits and are comfortable working within a quick timeframe.
What is a Full Family Session?
A Full Session typically lasts anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. These sessions are fully customized—we choose a location together that fits your style and vibe, and you’ll have the time and space to relax, settle in, and let those real moments unfold naturally.
Full sessions include a mix of posed images and lifestyle (candid) photos, which allow for storytelling and connection. They’re also ideal if:
Your child needs extra time to warm up
You want extended family involved
You’re dreaming of a family album or gallery wall
Best for: families who want a more personalized experience, creative freedom, and a wider variety of images.
How to Choose the Right Session for You
If your kids are super active or shy and need a little time to adjust, or if you’d love a more relaxed, go-with-the-flow experience—a full session will give you that extra breathing room.
If you’re looking for something quick, affordable, and to the point—a mini session may be perfect.
Still unsure? Ask yourself:
Do I want flexibility in choosing the location and timing? → Go with a full session.
Am I okay with a set location and a specific date? → A mini session works great.
Do I want a wide range of photos and more candid moments? → A full session offers more variety.
Am I just looking to update a few family photos for a card or gift? → Mini session all the way.
Let’s Make It Easy
With 9 years of experience as a photographer and a background in early childhood education, I’ve learned how to meet families exactly where they are. Whether you're booking a full session or snagging a spot during minis, I’ll make sure you feel confident and taken care of every step of the way.
Want to be the first to know when mini sessions go live? Click below to get on my email list!
And if you have any questions or just want to talk through what’s best for your family, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m always happy to help you plan the perfect session.
