You might have found yourself asking which one is better: mini sessions vs. full sessions? I think before you can answer that question as a client looking for a photographer you need to first have a vision for what you’d like to accomplish in your photo session. There is value in both mini sessions and full sessions. Let’s see if we can clear up some misconceptions and answer some questions you may have!

Do I want a mini-session

A mini session is typically a 15-minute block of time that is stacked back to back that your photographer has already prearranged dates. The photographer has preplanned the location for the session which may or may not include a theme. There are a limited number of edited high-resolution images delivered. Booking a full session will traditionally give you 30-60 minutes with a full gallery of edited high-resolution images. A full session allows you, the client to give input on location choices as well.

Still unclear about which type of session is best for you? A large number of mini sessions will be themed. Are you wanting to get that classic family Christmas picture at the tree farm? Would you love a professional photo of your children eating watermelon from the back of a pick-up truck? Maybe you want to update your family photos annually. You know your favorite photographer runs Fall Minis every year, which is a perfect opportunity for you and your family!

Some sessions SHOULD be full sessions

There are definitely types of sessions that require more than 15 minutes and you shouldn’t try to squeeze them into a mini session. Newborn or maternity sessions are two examples that are necessary to book a full session. Engagement and anniversary sessions necessitate more than a mini session can offer too. If you want the freedom to go a little bit slower, have any clothing changes or opt for more than one background to your photos a full session is what you’re looking to book.

So you see that there are upsides to both mini-sessions vs. full sessions. I truly believe mini sessions are a great thing to incorporate into preserving your family’s growth annually. Mini sessions are perfect for updating that family photo on your living room wall or capturing that adorable theme with your littles! If you are wanting to preserve a big life event, or want pictures at a time when your photographer is not offering mini sessions a full session is an answer for you!

Here are snipets from three sesssions that if done as a mini would have included these edited high resolution images in the delivered gallery

Want to see an idea of all the images you could receive in a full session click here