When planning a photography session, you may hear the terms mini-session and full-session. But what does that mean? What’s the difference? Which is right for you? Let’s review the basics of each to help you decide which is a better fit for your situation!
Length of the Session
As the name suggests, mini-sessions are much shorter than full sessions. Depending on your time constraints, each session has its benefits and drawbacks. Full sessions are longer, often between 45 minutes and an hour. This is great if you are trying to get a lot of variety in your photos. My full sessions include a second outfit, so you’ll get many options! Mini sessions are usually between 10 and 15 minutes. There is no time for an outfit change, but these quick yet efficient sessions are great if you don’t have much time. The short time frame of mini-sessions is excellent if you have little ones who are fussy and lose attention quickly. Full sessions are too long for some kiddos, and they end up tired or cranky. That’s not to say you can’t do a full session with kiddos; you may just need to bring things to help them keep attention, like candy bribes or a puppet.
Availability
Another big difference between mini and full sessions is when they are available. Full sessions are totally customizable and can be done on your schedule. This is a massive benefit if you’re busy or have a big group that is hard to get together. Mini sessions have a set date, time, and location. This is an excellent option if you can be flexible with your schedule.
Planning
The planning stages for both options are incredibly different. A full session is your best option if you want total control over your photo session. With full sessions, you get to have a say in the whole process: the location, the date and time, the concept, and more. A full session is perfect if you have an exact vision of what you want your photos to look like. Mini sessions are pre-planned and do not require any planning on your end except for outfits. Mini sessions have a set location, date, and time, so you only need to show up. This is a great option if you don’t have a vision or if the location/set is what you were looking for.
Number of Photos Received
If you’re looking for a few pictures but don’t need or want many, a mini-session is perfect. With my mini sessions, you get five photos included in your package. You can buy more photos but don’t have to if you’re only looking for a few. This is great for greeting cards and updating family photos. If you’re looking for more pictures, the full session is for you! My full sessions include all the edited photos included in the price. You are guaranteed 30 photos, but you often get more than that! This is ideal for branding sessions, senior portraits, or if you’re looking to update all your family photos.
Summary
Here is a bulleted list of the characteristics described above:
Mini-Sessions:
- Shorter time - best for small children who don’t hold attention well
- Less availability - only available a few times a year for special occasions
- No planning - the location, date, and time is all set by the photographer
- Less photos - you receive five included photos with the option to purchase more
Full Sessions:
- Longer time - these sessions are longer, meaning there are more possibilities
- Flexible availability - you choose the location, date, and time of the session
- Involved in planning - this session is totally up to you; you’re as involved in planning as you want to be
- More photos - you receive all the edited photos from the sessions
With this new information, you can make a decision on what type of session is best for you! Please reach out with any questions and I look forward to working with you!
