Le't’s talk about mini sessions. What are they and how do they work? When is it best to choose a mini?

Lot’s of photographers will advertise a mini session that is 45 minutes or longer and you receive 50 images. Simply put, that’s not a mini session.

The definition of a mini thanks to yahoo dictionary
Min·i

/ˈminē/

adjective

• 1.denoting a miniature version of something:"a mini camera"

A mini session is 30 minutes (max) usually 15 minutes or less and are to give you just a taste of working together. They are meant to be short and also less expensive than a full session. As well as offer less. If we’re doing the math (I know, we don’t like it, but let’s just take a moment for it anyway) a full session would be a minimum of 90 minutes if your mini is 1/2 of your full session and it 45 minutes. Or if it’s a 1/4 like mine are typically you’re looking at 3 hours for a full session. Most families won’t last 3 hours for a normal session. That being said, I do have sessions that have lasted that long. For example, the senior session where we went 3 locations.

Mini sessions don’t include clothing changes or your choice of location. I choose the spot and then have quick time slots for you to choose from. This can be surprising to some not realizing that there are several in a row meaning location of choice isn’t an option.

This also means that being on time or even a little early is a must. As I finish up with one client we can then begin right away. Which is important for the person after your session.

While only a few images may be included you always have the option to upgrade your gallery or purchase additional images and products. Or sometimes there are package options on the mini so you can choose if you wan the entire finished gallery when you book.

Mini’s are meant for immediate family, one or two people or just the children. Depending on the theme. It’s important to remember that there just isn’t time for grandparents, your sister and her family, brother, etc. These are considered extended family sessions and I have a solution for you. if you really only want a mini session, I recommend booking them all in a row. So if you have a sister, brother and parents book 4 sessions in a row and have everyone come. Then we can get everyone in.

Minis aren’t available for booking all the time. Because they’re often themed, on a certain date and there are time slots they’re limited booking.

And finally, just a little something to consider. When choosing who a photographer to work with, select a mini session that has their own images. If they’re sharing “inspo” photos they aren’t using their own work. When choosing a mini setup or location the pros have models come in and create images for their advertising or select their own images they’ve used before. Then you know you’ll be getting the beautiful images from who you hired. Not what they’re hoping to recreate.

So, a quick recap

Minis are

1. quick (30 minutes max)

2. a taste of working with the photographer

3. at the location of photographer’s choice

4. offered several in a row

5. for smaller groups like your immediate family

6. offered certain times throughout the year
   

As always, reach out with mini’s questions or anything else. - Hannah