Mini Photography Sessions vs. Full Sessions… Which One Is Best For Your Family?

*Note: Mini sessions are available once per season on pop-up dates. Contact Rachel (here) to have your name added to the email list so you’ll be notified once the next mini session dates become available.

When it comes to booking a family photography session, you want the perfect balance of time, memories, genuine smiles, location, variety, and investment. I specialize in capturing the beautiful moments of your family, whether you choose a Mini Session or a Full Session. But with so many options available, how do you decide which session type and length is right for you? I get this question a lot and since I believe both session types have a time and place, I decided to break the differences down so you can feel good about picking the option that’s the best fit for your family right now.

What is a Mini Session?

A Mini Session is a shorter, more affordable photography session that lasts 20 minutes. It’s ideal for families who want to capture a couple special moments but may not need a full-length session. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Short and Sweet: Mini Sessions are perfect for busy families who want to get in, get their photos taken, and get back to their day. If your kids are little or easily distracted, the brief timeframe helps keep them engaged.
• More Affordable: Because they are shorter and typically held on specific dates with multiple clients, Mini Sessions offer a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing high-quality photos.
• Great for Special Occasions: Mini Sessions are perfect for capturing smaller milestone moments, such as holiday photos. These are often offered seasonally, such as spring, fall, or holiday-themed shoots.

What is a Full Session?

A Full Session provides a more comprehensive and detailed photography experience. Typically lasting anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, Full Sessions are great for families who want a more personalized, creative shoot. Here’s what you can expect:

• More Time for Candid Moments: With a Full Session, there’s plenty of time to capture a variety of shots—posed, candid, and everything in between. Through posing queues and creative prompts, I keep you and your crew having fun throughout the session to ensure I’m capturing genuine moments and smiles.
• Personalized Experience: A Full Session provides more time for interaction between you and your photographer. I work closely with you to capture the unique dynamics of your family, from playful moments to quiet interactions.
• More Variety: Full Sessions allow for more variety and creativity in the types of photos you receive. You can take advantage of multiple locations, poses, and props to create a wide range of images that truly reflect your family’s personality.
• Ideal for Young Families: If you have young children who need more time to warm up to the camera, a Full Session is perfect. It allows for more flexibility and ensures we get the shots you’ll treasure forever.

Which One is Best for Your Family?

Choosing between a Mini Session and a Full Session depends on your family’s needs, schedule, and the kind of experience you want. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Go for a Mini Photography Session if:
  • You have a tight schedule or young children who may struggle with long photo sessions.
  • You want high-quality photos for special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or seasonal portraits.
  • You’re looking for a more affordable option.
  • You’re seeking a few quick, no-fuss portraits.
  • You don’t mind waiting for mini session date availability (note: mini sessions are available once per season on pop-up dates. Contact Rachel (here) to have your name added to the email list so you’ll be notified once the next mini session dates become available).

• Go for a Full Photography Session if:
  • You want a more personalized and creative experience with plenty of time for unique, candid shots.
  • You have several family members or pets that need more time to warm up to the camera.
  • You’re looking for a more diverse set of photos that showcase a variety of locations, poses, and outfits.
  • You want to document your family’s personality in a way that’s beyond just the posed shots.
  • You prefer to schedule your photography session on a specific date and time.

Why Choose Rachel Louise Photography for Your Family’s Photos?

I specialize in capturing genuine moments of love and connection. Whether you choose a Mini Session or a Full Session, I focus on delivering stunning, high-quality photos that your family will cherish for a lifetime.

Why families love working with me:

• Sophisticated & Artistic Photography: My signature style blends artistic composition with a sophisticated, luxury feel, ensuring your photos stand out and stand the test of time.
• Personalized Experience: Every family is unique, and I take the time to understand your vision and preferences, making sure your photos truly reflect your family’s personality.
• Convenient Locations: I’m based out of Iowa City, IA but serve families across all of Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and beyond (view travel policy here). Whether it’s a local park, your home, or a special location, I’m ready to capture your moments wherever you are.

Ready to Book Your Family Photography Session?

No matter which session type you choose, I’m here to make your family photo experience as enjoyable and memorable as possible. Contact Rachel Louise Photography today to book your Full Session and create timeless memories that will last for generations.

*Note: mini sessions are available once per season on pop-up dates. Contact Rachel (here) to have your name added to the email list so you’ll be notified once the next mini session dates become available.