Mini or Full Photo Sessions - How to Decide
Should I do a full session or wait for mini sessions? I get asked this question a lot. I have an annoying answer. It depends.
It depends on a lot of factors, so let’s talk about them. First, let me highlight the differences between these sessions.
Mini sessions are quick, usually under 30 minutes, and often more to the tune of 10 minutes or so, and in a set location. You roll in, meet your photographer, snap your pictures, and move along.
A full session is often an hour or so and moves at a leisurely pace.
So first, think about what you want to accomplish. If you’re looking for one or two perfect pictures for a holiday card, your Instagram, your Facebook profile picture, then mini sessions scratch that itch. They can be helpful for some kids, too, who follow directions well and warm up quickly but have short attention spans.
The downsides to mini sessions include not always being able to pick an optimal time with the best lighting and not having a say on location. If your child is having a rough time, you are typically scheduled for your time with a tight turnaround, so it’s a grin-and-get-it-done situation. You also get a significantly smaller gallery.
Full sessions allow you to have more say in the location and often involve several locations/backgrounds. There can even be time for outfit changes. I also have time to do more creative shots, get to know your family, capture personality portraits, and get many different family configurations. If you have a child having a grumpy moment, there is usually a lot of time to snap them out of it. You also have control over the time slot and can really use every moment of the golden hour. You can also include more family members or, my favorite, YOUR DOGS!
My galleries are big for full sessions, typically over 60 unique photos, and I edit them in color + black & white for you.
The downsides to full sessions include the price, as they are typically pricier, and the length of time. It’s a big time investment, and some kids just don’t enjoy that.
Client Testimonials
Hearing from other families can be incredibly helpful when making your decision. Here's what some of my clients have to say:
"Kaycee is kind, patient, and fun when it comes to family photos! She is a natural with kids and will find ways to make them smile, taking the guesswork out of it for the parents. She even held my daughter while snapping away some pictures of my son and me during our mommy-and-me session." - Ashley S.
"Kaycee did an incredible job capturing my family. And the task was not easy. She possessed so much patience and engagement as my 3-year-old decided she did not want to engage in the Photoshoot! Somehow was still captured photos that we will treasure forever." - Katie S.
Tips for Preparing for Your Session
For Mini Sessions:
Arrive on time: With limited time, punctuality is crucial.
Outfit planning: Choose outfits the night before to avoid last-minute stress.
Practice poses: Especially helpful for younger children to get them comfortable.
For Full Sessions:
Bring snacks and water: Keeps everyone energized and happy.
Outfit changes: Plan a couple of different outfits for variety if you’d like! We have time!
Think about props: Favorite toys, books, or blankets can add a personal touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if a mini session is right for my family? A: Mini sessions are great if you need a few high-quality photos and have a tight schedule. They are ideal for holiday cards, social media updates, and quick family portraits.
Q: What if my child doesn’t cooperate during the session? A: For mini sessions, we'll do our best to capture great shots quickly. For full sessions, we have more time to let your child warm up and can take breaks as needed.
Orlando-Specific Tips
Orlando, Florida, is a fantastic place for family photography. Here are some tips to make the most of your session:
Best Time of Year: While Orlando has beautiful weather year-round, winter and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor sessions.
Golden Hour: The hour just after sunrise or just before sunset provides the most flattering natural light.
Location Highlights: Consider iconic spots like Lake Louisa, the streets of Winter Park, or the picturesque Lake Eola Park for your session. My favorite is Azalea Park.
Deciding What's Best for Your Family
When deciding between mini and full sessions, consider your family's needs and preferences. If your goal is to get a few great shots for a holiday card or a quick update for your wall, mini sessions might be perfect for you. However, if you're looking for a more in-depth experience with a variety of images and more time to capture those perfect moments, a full session is the way to go.
Remember, whether you choose a mini session or a full session, the most important thing is capturing your family's unique personality and love. As your Orlando, Florida family photographer, I'm here to help make that happen in the most enjoyable and stress-free way possible.
Booking Your Session
Ready to book your session? Contact me to discuss what type of session is right for you and your family. Whether it's a mini session or a full session, I'm excited to capture beautiful memories for your family in Orlando, Florida. Let’s create some magic together!
I have fall minis going now, winter minis coming, and I do spring minis. Spots are limited. Full sessions are usually available year-round. My mailing list always gets the first pick of mini-sessions, join the list here!
