Let’s clear something up: this post isn’t about convincing you to book one session type over the other. I genuinely love shooting both mini and full sessions, for totally different reasons.
In fact, if we’re being honest, mini sessions are actually more profitable for me. I can photograph multiple families back to back, all in one location, all in one day. With full sessions, it’s one family, one time slot, one day, more time, more prep, less financial return.
But from a creative perspective? I have a soft spot for full sessions.
There’s just something richer about them. We can take our time. I get to connect with each member of your family more deeply. We don’t feel rushed. We can pause for snacks, let the kids explore, or give mom and dad a quiet moment while the little ones reset with a bag of Goldfish.
We can also try new locations and mix things up. Since I shoot so many minis in the same few (beautiful) spots, full sessions keep me creatively refreshed. They bring variety to my work and to your gallery.
So here's the thing: I want you to choose the session type that fits your family best. And if you end up booking both sometime during the year... well, you just might become my favorite kind of person.
How to Decide: Mini or Full?
Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out which session might be the right fit:
A mini session might be right if....
- you have younger kiddos who aren’t quite in the "run around and explore" stage.
- You’re not huge fans of being outdoors for long (bugs, itchy grass, heat... I get it).
- You prefer to keep things simple, with less planning and fewer decisions to make.
- You’re busy, and coordinating every detail of a custom session feels overwhelming.
- You just want a quick, beautiful update to your family photos without the extra fuss.
A full session might be right if...
- You have a vision for your photos and want to collaborate to bring it to life.
- You want more control over the location, especially if you're not into fields.
- You’d love more time to warm up, explore, and let the session unfold naturally.
- Your family enjoys being outside and you want to capture playful, unhurried moments.
- You want more personalized prep support, styling help, or guidance before the shoot.
- You're dreaming up something creative — like a creek splash session, photos on your homestead, or a cozy in-home lifestyle shoot.
With a full session, a lot of times we can even start early if you show up ahead of time. I don’t book anything else that day, so we’re not racing the clock. usually, we can shoot until the light fades or the kids are done whichever comes first.
The takeaway? There’s no wrong choice.
There’s only the choice that fits your family’s personality, season, and vision right now.
Have questions? Want to talk through what might be best for you?
I’m here for it. Let’s make it feel just right.
