5 Things To Know About Mini Sessions
Mini Sessions, such a fluid concept. Each photographer does them a little differently and can even do them a different way dependent on the season. I’m here to break down a few things photographers want you to know about how to get that perfect mini session.
“Mini” Mindset
No matter the photographer, a ‘mini session’ is just that; a mini version of a standard session that they generally offer. With that comes a lower price point and of course less time. When you book a mini session it is important to remember that basic…you are booking a condensed session, not just a cheaper session done faster. That means adjusting your expectations to the basics, smiling family photo for cards, some groupings of the kids and hopefully a few candids. This is absolutely perfect when you want that holiday card photo and some images to mark the stage your kiddos are in, but it is not the session for you if you are wanting the full artistic scope of your photographer. This isn’t the session for several poses or candid focused images, those are for the full sessions where you have the time to really be creative and, simply, have enough time. So when you sign up for a mini session keep your expectations for the session realistic for the amount of time you have.
Trust us!
So all that being said above, I understand the pressure of trying to make the most of your short session, but to the very best of your ability try to show up and go with the flow. Your photographer is a PRO and is there to guide you and your family so you don’t have to stress. I have a full proof plan I follow for each session to maximize our time and get you guys looking good. If you can let me have your attention and trust me to get the attention of your kids then we are golden. Sessions can turn sour if the stress of wanting that perfect photo can seep into how frustrated you are that your spouse and/or children are not cooperating. No one has fun and the pictures will show it. Trust me, I got you.
No Judgement
Look, not many people love having their photos done and pretty much no husbands or kids like dressing up and having their photos taken. It can feel uncomfortable and annoying (not when you actually get to a session with me though because I make it fun and am a super cool person to be around) and there was probably some major upsets in getting everyone dressed and ready on time. I do not care or hold any judgement about how you made that mini miracle happen. Sometimes we just need to bribe and this is the time to do it. I don’t recommend punishment over bribery because a kid who is just told they are going to be punished is not very photogenic. You are not weak or encouraging anarchy in your children, you are just buying them a scoop of frickin ice cream so you have a photo that you will treasure all of your damn life.
Respect the ‘Mini’
As I mentioned above, the mini is just that and you know what you booked. You know that you booked a 15 minute slot that has about 6 sessions before and 5 more after. That understanding is crucial for you and your photographer because if you are 10 minutes late to your 15 minute session that could snowball into at least one session not having enough light at the end of the day. Your photographer agrees to your specific time slot and won’t be able to squeeze in longer out of the simple impossible scheduling nightmare that sets in to motion for the rest of the clients. That means you, parents of babies who think you could get another smile with just a few more minutes. You are special and important, of course! However, when you sign up for a mini session you need to be able to take responsibility for the amount of time alotted for that session. Arrive early so you don’t miss any shooting time and you will be golden and your photographer will be so thankful for a smooth day.
Keep it Simple
My friend, if you have three small children and want to bring your new puppy to a 15 minute mini session…you can do it but understand the logistics of what that will look like. Mini sessions go fast and it is crucial to minimize those things that will take your time away from shooting. Have your babies fed, your dogs smiling, your outfits and hair in maintainable fashions. If you overcomplicate then your session suffers. Keep it simple and focus on feeling great and having fun with your family.
Mini sessions are an amazing way for photographers to maximize their time and see as many of their amazing clients as they can and they are also an amazing way for photographers to make money from a business stand point. These sessions are so great for clients to take advantage of when they don’t want to invest as much in a session whether that is financially or just emotionally (10-17 year old boys simply see no point to enduring a 1 hr family photo session). I hope this helps crack the science of getting your perfect mini session!
