What exactly is the difference between a mini session and a scheduled half hour session? You get beautiful family photos from both, right? Yes! However, there are a few key differences.

Mini Sessions

Mini sessions are a short, focused photo session that last about 10-15 minutes. They actually sometimes are faster than that! There is some extra time included to account for weather, and sometimes it can be hard for the kiddos if they don’t feel like having their photo taken. Since the sessions are short, I have a set number of poses that I work through, so bring your energy! If we have extra time after the workflow, then I like to ask my clients if there’s any other poses or types of shots that they’d like to get – so come prepared if there’s a photo you’ve seen and though “I NEED that!”

Mini sessions are also scheduled on a specific date, for a specific time, at a specific location. They are mainly used for a specific occasion; holidays, and change in season! I know Mother’s Day, Fall, and Christmas sessions are only a few of the most popular ones.

In short, the pros; cost-effective, quick and painless session – no need for a long commitment, convenient – no need for extensive planning!

Now there are a couple cons; you do not get all the photos, mini sessions typically have a set number of photos you can download, with the option to purchase more, this is because it does take quite some time to edit the photos. You may also feel a little rushed with the short time slot – but I promise to get so many great photos!

Scheduled Half-Hour Sessions

These sessions are, like in the name, scheduled. We discuss, and pick a date and time that works for the both of us. They are great for those who want to explore different poses, settings, candid moments, and more time in between and during shots to get that perfect photo. These are great for engagement photos, life events, and also family photos!

Now, these sessions don’t have to be only a half hour long. Of course I have hour long sessions too that allow for an outfit change as well! I also usually don’t book back to back sessions for these, so there’s no strict time restraint. If we need to go over by a couple minutes then that is totally fine! I want my clients to feel relaxed!

Although these sessions do cost a bit more then the minis, you also are not restricted on how many photos you receive. I almost always give my clients minimum 30 photos from their session!

The choice between a mini 10-15 minute session and a scheduled session depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a quick, simple way to capture a few photos for holiday cards, or just updated photos, a mini session is great! Whereas, if you’re celebrating a life event, or wanting a more personalized experience with more flexibility, then a scheduled session may be the way to go.

Whichever you choose, I will help to make it a fun experience and I cannot wait to take photos of you and your family!

If you want to join my mailing list to get all the updates on when I’m hosting mini sessions, then please click here! Otherwise, feel free to contact me if you’d like to book your scheduled session.

mcdowell.dayna@gmail.com