Mini and full photo sessions both serve a purpose, but they’re designed for very different needs. If you’ve ever wondered which option is right for your family, newborn, or brand, this guide will walk you through the differences so you can book confidently.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at my booking page thinking, “Okay…but which one do I actually need?”, you’re not alone. Choosing between a mini or full photo session isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about what fits your season, your goals, and your people.
At a high level, the difference comes down to time, flexibility, and storytelling depth, but how that plays out can look different depending on what you’re photographing.
Here’s how I explain it to my clients.
What a Mini Session Is (and Isn’t)
Mini sessions are short, sweet, and intentional. They’re offered on specific dates, back-to-back, and are designed to capture meaningful moments efficiently.
Mini sessions are perfect if you:
1. Have young kids with short attention span
Fifteen minutes is often plenty for toddlers and preschoolers. We jump right in, keep things moving, and capture connection before anyone melts down.
2. Want updated photos without a big production
Think seasonal family photos, milestone updates, or a quick refresh for your walls.
3. Are a small business owner needing a handful of images
Minis are a great option for updated headshots or lifestyle brand photos when you don’t need a full gallery.
4. Love lifestyle-style imagery
Mini sessions lean more candid. Movement, snuggles, connection and real moments are the main focus.
Important things to know about mini sessions:
- Sessions are 15 minutes
- They run back-to-back, so timing is firm
- You receive 20 edited images
- They are offered on set dates and locations
- They move fast and that’s intentional
What a Full Session Looks Like
Full sessions are where we slow down. These are relaxed, flexible, and designed to tell a deeper story.
Full sessions are ideal if you:
1. Want variety and depth in your gallery
We have time for movement and stillness, posed moments and candid ones.
2. Have a newborn and want posed images
Full newborn sessions allow time for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, and those classic posed shots on the bag without rushing.
3. Need flexibility
We can take breaks, change outfits, shift locations, or simply pause when life happens.
4. Are documenting a bigger season
Maternity, newborn, extended family, brand storytelling — full sessions give space for all of it.
What’s included in a full session:
- Flexible session length (we move at your pace)
- More date and location options
- 30–70 images, depending on the session
- A calm, unrushed experience
- Room for real life (kids being kids, babies needing breaks)
So… Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s a simple way to decide:
Choose a mini session if you want:
- Something quick and efficient
- A smaller gallery
- Lifestyle-focused moments
- A shorter commitment (great for young kids or busy schedules)
Choose a full session if you want:
- Time to slow down
- More variety and storytelling
- Flexibility and breathing room
- A fuller gallery that captures the whole season
Neither option is “better.” They’re just built for different needs.
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