Mini Sessions Vs Full Sessions
So you're wanting to get some family pictures taken, makes sense! These kids won't stop growing and what parent doesn't want to document their kids growth with pictures that they're ACTUALLY in? You just can't decide if you should go all in with a full session, or opt for the quick and easy mini session. In all of your photographer shopping...no one has really explained the difference. But, it seems like mini sessions are shorter (seems like a good thing!), cheaper (yay!), you just get fewer pictures (who needs more than a few pictures anyway?), seems like the choice is a no brainer! but before you set that decision in stone, I'd like to explain the differences between these sessions so that you can make the best choice for your unique family.
Full sessions are a journey of connection
Spending up to an hour with a photographer makes it pretty impossible to stay nervous. A skilled photographer can make the entire family feel at ease which is the most important part of bringing out those natural, relaxed smiles. Not just in the adults, but the kids too! The extra time allows everyone to relax and be themselves, but that time seems to be an especially big deal with small children.
I have worked with kids in ALL of the different moods. I've seen the nervous bouncing-off-the-wall energy, the "I don't want to be here" tears, the "I don't know who you are" shyness. Etc. etc. etc.
Full sessions offer me time to work past nervousness in all of its different manifestations. It gives me the chance to build a rapport, establish some trust, and make the camera feel infinitely less intimidating. I have a pretty amazing track record of bringing out the best moods in kids in a pretty short amount of time. But does this mean I'm always successful?
Haha...no.
But, the benefit to a full session in these situations is the ability to relax and go with the flow, to allow kids to just be, to capture moments of comfort and connection without the rush of the clocks minutes ticking by way too fast. And in the end, given time, even when we can't work through the big emotions of some of these tiny humans, the sessions still end up hugely successful.
Full sessions offer the opportunity to cater to every unique personality. If kids show up wild with excited energy? Then we'll start with all the action shots!
If the kids need a second to relax into their new environment, then I'll take a step back and let them play while I excitedly give encouragement and we can all watch as their anxiety melts away.
With a full session whatever your family needs to have the best experience is what you get, and in the end you receive a super diverse gallery of pictures that hopefully captures your family in a natural and relaxed way.
Mini Sessions are quick and convenient
Not everyone needs or wants a full session! And that's okay! Where full sessions exist to create connection, and a diverse gallery of pictures to choose from. Mini sessions are all about being quick and efficient in capturing those few pictures you need to update the frame above the mantle, to fill the Christmas card, or to take advantage of a cute themed session that some photographers offer around holidays. These sessions are usually between 5 and 20 minutes long depending on the photographer and the promotion going on at the time. Because of the short time, they are ideal for humans with predicable moods. Mini sessions are absolutely perfect for adults, and families with older children who just want a few nice pictures with everyone together.
That's not to say mini sessions aren't for everyone though! Many MANY families with young children opt for mini sessions because dragging out the time sounds like absolute torture (I get it! I have kids too!). But just keep in mind that because there isn't any time for kids to warm up to the environment, the photographer, and the new situation they find themselves in...it won't ALWAYS be possible to get those pictures with everyone happily looking at the camera. The pictures will, of course, still be adorable! And quite honestly...now that I have a teenager I can say with certainty that showing him the grumpy face family pictures that we have from when he was younger is a hilarious experience every time ;).
I hope this information is helpful as you work to decide on the best choice for your family! Whether you choose a mini session, or a full session, the important thing is that you prioritize the hopes and needs of your family. If you're ready to take the next step, or if you still find yourself with more questions, please feel free reach out anytime! I'm always happy to chat :)
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Mercedes Jones is a State College photographer proudly serving clients throughout State College, PA, and surrounding Central Pennsylvania areas, including Bellefonte, Port Matilda, Pleasant Gap, Boalsburg, Julian, and Centre Hall. Specializing in family, newborn, graduation, senior, portrait, and wedding photography, Mercedes is passionate about capturing authentic, memorable moments. For senior sessions, Mercedes regularly serves students from State College Area School District (SCASD), Bald Eagle, Bellefonte, Keystone, Penns Valley, and Tyrone school districts—and loves to travel! Whether you're looking for lifestyle family photography, timeless newborn portraits, or vibrant senior photos, Mercedes Jones Photography is ready to document your life's most important milestones.
