Mini Sessions vs. Full Sessions — Which is right for you?
When booking a photography session, one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with a mini session or a full session. Each option has its own benefits, depending on your needs, budget, and the type of experience you’re looking for. Let’s break down the differences to help you choose the best fit! Keep in mind every photographer offers different things during their sessions — the below is based purely on my business and how I like to serve my clients.
Mini Sessions
Mini sessions are a fantastic option for those looking for beautiful images in a short and sweet session. Here’s what you can expect:
Specific Location – Mini sessions take place at a pre-determined location, chosen for its beauty, versatility, and ability to capture stunning images in a short time frame.
Specific Date – These sessions are scheduled on a set date, often seasonally, making them perfect for holiday cards or special occasions.
Limited Time – Mini sessions are quick, typically lasting 15-20 minutes, which can be a double-edged sword. If you have young kids, this short window can be a huge advantage—their attention spans are short, and a quick session means we can capture their genuine energy before distractions set in. However, if you're hoping for that perfect shot, the shorter timeframe can sometimes be challenging, especially if little ones take time to warm up.
Limited Deliverables – You’ll receive a select number of professionally edited images, perfect for printing or sharing online. This could be anywhere from 5 images to 20 depending on the photographer.
Affordable Price Point – Mini sessions are a more budget-friendly option for those who want high-quality photography without the commitment of a full session.
Great for Quick Portraits – Whether it’s updating family photos, getting a few shots of the kids, or capturing a seasonal look, mini sessions offer a great way to get stunning images in a short time.
Full Sessions
If you’re looking for a more personalized and immersive experience, a full session may be the right choice for you. Here’s why:
Flexible and Dedicated Date – Unlike mini sessions, full sessions are scheduled at a time that works best for you, allowing for more flexibility.
Custom Location – I work with couples, families, or individuals to select a meaningful location that adds to the uniqueness of the session.
Unlimited Gallery – For full sessions, I don’t limit the amount of images you receive, which gives you a full collection of beautifully captured moments. I include the best from the session - which could be anywhere from 50 to 100 images. You can download them all.
A Larger Investment – While full sessions require a larger investment, they provide a more in-depth experience and a wider variety of images — and a bit of a more relaxed environment if I may say so. There’s no rushing.
More of an Experience – A full session allows time to truly settle in. If you have young children, they can warm up to the camera and feel comfortable in the environment. This also applies to adults who may need extra time to feel at ease in front of the lens! Plus, a longer session lets us incorporate fun, meaningful activities — whether it's eating ice cream together, having a cocktail with your partner at a local bar, building sandcastles on the beach, or simply laughing and playing as a family. These natural interactions create authentic, dynamic images that truly capture your life and relationships — and a lasting memory or two.
Which One is Right for You?
Choose a mini session if you’re looking for quick, beautiful portraits at an affordable price.
Choose a full session if you want a customized experience with more time to create images that feel personal and unique.
Both types of sessions have their own magic—whether you need a few great shots or a full storytelling experience, I’m here to capture it all.
Interested in a full session? Contact me. Looking for a mini session date? Follow me on Instagram.
