If you’re torn between a full portrait session and a mini session, you’re not alone. “But Kayla, which one is better for my family?” I get this question a lot. The answer is going to be different for each family, and may change from year to year as your littles get older and their needs and attention spans change.

Here’s a run down of the differences between full sessions and mini sessions, and some advantages to each and you can decide which one fits your family’s preferences and needs.

MINI SESSION – $200 + hst

• 15-minute photography session
• predetermined location
• predetermined date
• 8 final images + option to upgrade to full gallery (a mini session typically yields 15-25 images)

FULL SESSION – $650 + hst

• 1-hour photography session
• styling assistance
• detailed planning
• all best high resolution, edited images in an online gallery (50+)
• 30 – 5×7 prints

What is a mini session?

A mini session is a short and sweet photography session lasting 15-minutes or less. They are often scheduled back to back, with zero time in between sessions. A mini session typically yields 15-25 final images.

PROS:

• a great way to get a few updated family photos on a budget
• option to try out different locations if you book more than one mini
• Shorter session, which is good for littles who have shorter attention spans

CONS:

• you must arrive on time for your session as it cannot be extended if you’re late
• the location is predetermined by the photographer
• if it rains and the session is rescheduled, you may or may not get to go back to that same location again (a lot of mini sessions are subject to blooms – you will need to book with flexibility in your schedule)

What is a full session?

A full session will last up to 1-hour, allowing us the flexibility to capture authentic family portraits without the pressure of back-to-back bookings. You can expect a beautiful collection of 50+ edited images that bring you joy each and every day in this busy season of life.

PROS:

• no elaborate props, no cheesy poses, and no Sears portrait studio backgrounds
• includes photoshoot planning, styling assistance, and in-session guidance so you feel seen and supported throughout the entire process
• they can be a simple, enjoyable, and memorable experience that you’ll look back on with fondness
• more flexibility with time

CONS:

• Higher price point
• For some children (and adults), longer sessions can feel dragging and tiring which can result in big emotions during the session
• You can also end up with a lot more images than you actually need

If you’re ready to…

–Stop saying “maybe next year” and start collecting precious memories today
–Let go of the anxiety about making it “perfect” and capture the authentic moments instead
–Hand over the details to a professional that truly cares about your family’s experience

Get in touch.

xx,

Kayla