A mini family session vs. a regular family session. Which is the best?

What is the difference between a mini session and a regular session? 

When it’s time for family photos there are a lot of things to consider before you make the decision. Along with everything that goes into the mix, from choosing which photographer to hire, to deciding on where to do the photo session, there is something else to consider. Should we do a mini family session or a regular one. Before we dig into which is the best, let’s talk about the differences between the two.

What is a mini family session?

A mini session is just like it sounds, a shorter version of a regular session. Families usually book these because they are looking to get a few photos really quickly and are not looking for a relaxed and carefree experience that captures a story. Here are some things that you can expect if you book a mini session.

•They usually range from 10 to 20 minutes in duration. 

•They are typically done in a location predetermined by the photographer and on a specific date.

•Mini sessions provide less images than a regular session.  

•The price point is less than a full session.  

What is a regular family session?

A regular session usually lasts an hour or so, give or take. These sessions are designed for families that want a more relaxed session where the experience is as important as the photos themselves. They are for a family that wants a session that is fun and playfilled so that the result is carefree, authentic and love filled photos. Here are some things that you can expect if you book a regular family session.

•You will have the option to choose a location that you desire and one that works well for your family.  

•You have more flexibility on the start time.

•The session will produce a larger gallery.

•Your will have more variety in your images.

•The cost is more, but you receive more. 

Who is a mini family session best suited for?

•A family that is only wanting a few images.  

•A family with small children that feels they will do better with a shorter session.  

•A family that wants a budget friendly option.

Who is a regular family session best suited for?

•A family that wants the ability to choose a location that they desire. 

Whether you like the look of nature, an urban setting or the comfort of your home, the decision will be yours.  

•A family that wants more of a relaxed session.  

By taking our time, it insures that the kids have time to relax get comfortable and be themselves.  This results in authentic images.  

•A family that values a variety of images.

In a regular session there is time to get all the groupings you like as well as the candid moments that happen naturally.  

•A family that appreciates that the session is an experience and a memory maker in itself.  

This is my personal favorite.  A family session should be fun and filled with play and happiness.  When this is the goal, the images will reflect the happy time you spent together as a family and those are the ones you’ll love hanging on your walls.  

So which is better, a regular family session or a mini?

In my opinion, especially for families with younger kids, a regular session is the way to go. It will give you more time for the kids to warm up, feel comfortable and let their personalities shine. It also allows for extra time in case anyone needs a break or a little snack, which can happen with little ones. By having more time it sets everyone up for a better experience. No one will feel rushed, which means that the session will run smoother. The result will be a fun filled photo session that produces happy images of the time you spent together.

Contact me to get your regular family session booked!