Full Family Session vs. Mini Session: Which One is Right for Your Family?
Finding Your Perfect Photo Session
I’m a big fan of capturing memories of all kinds, and I want to do whatever is best for your crew! Now booking Mini Sessions in Arizona!
Is a full-family session or a mini-session right for you?
Let’s find out!
Mini sessions are a great way to quickly update your family photos for holiday cards or social media. As a family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona, I love mini sessions, but I've learned they aren't the perfect fit for every family. Here are some keys things to keep in mind to help you decide if a mini session is right for your family.
(1) Expectations
It’s important to remember that mini sessions are, after all, mini! Our time together will be limited, so we have to make the most of it! If you’re booking a mini-session in the hopes that you will get a handful of beautiful shots of your family, you’re on the right track. On the other hand, if you have a specific wish list of photos you want, mini’s might not be the best fit.
(2) Budget
If you’re on a tighter budget, mini-sessions are a great fit! Generally speaking, they are less of an investment and still a good opportunity to get high-quality photos.
(3) Children’s Personalities
If your kids adapt quickly to unfamiliar situations, follow directions well, and are happy to meet new people, a mini-session is perfect for them. If your little one is a little bit more timid or shy and needs some time to warm up to their surroundings, a full-length session might be a better option. You know your kids best, so go with the session that will help us capture those sweet smiles best.
(4) Family Size
Mini sessions work best with fewer people, which is why I don’t recommend them for families with more than 4-5 people. The last thing I want is for our time to fly by without giving you the full experience and all the photos you want.
(5) Flexibility
When I plan my mini-session schedules, they’re usually stacked back-to-back, meaning that punctuality is crucial to our success. If you think you’ll need a session that offers a little bit more flexibility on time, a full session might be a better idea because you’ll typically be the only client scheduled that day.
With all that in mind, Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice for your next family photoshoot!
Full Family Session Pros:
Variety of Poses and Settings. With a full hour, we have ample time to explore the location and try various poses. This allows for a more diverse gallery of images that capture different aspects of your family’s personality.
Relaxed Atmosphere. There’s no need to rush. We can take our time to ensure everyone is comfortable and enjoying the session. This is especially beneficial for families with young children who may need breaks or time to warm up to the camera.
In-Depth Storytelling. A full session allows us to tell a more comprehensive story of your family. We can include candid moments, individual portraits, and group shots that truly showcase the love and connection you share.
Full Family Session Cons:
Higher Cost. A full session is more of an investment than a mini session due to the extended time and the larger number of edited images.
Time Commitment. Finding an hour in everyone’s schedule can be challenging, especially if you have young children or a busy lifestyle.
Mini Session Pros:
Affordability. Mini sessions are typically more budget-friendly, making them an excellent option for families who want beautiful photos without breaking the bank.
Convenience. Because they take only 15 minutes, mini-sessions are perfect for busy families who can’t commit to a full hour. They’re also great for capturing a quick holiday card photo or updating your family portrait.
Perfect for Holiday Cards and Social Media. Mini sessions are great for a quick and easy way to get those family photos updated and ready to be sent out on a holiday card, or your holiday Instagram post.
Mini Session Cons:
Limited Variety. With only 15 minutes, we’ll have less time to explore different poses and locations. The focus will be on getting a few beautiful photos rather than creating a diverse gallery.
Less Flexibility. If someone in your family is having an off day or needs some extra time to warm up, a mini-session might feel rushed. There’s also less opportunity for outfit changes or specific poses.
High Demand. Mini sessions are often scheduled one right after the other, so there is less flexibility if you’re running late or need a little extra time.
Ready to Book Your Gilbert, Arizona Family Session?
Whether you choose a full family session or mini session, I'm here to capture your family's precious moments with professional expertise and artistic vision. Each session is tailored to showcase your family's unique personality and connections.
Contact me today to discuss which option is perfect for your family and to reserve your session date. I look forward to creating beautiful, lasting memories with you!
