Mini Session vs Full Session For Family Photos
To better suit a variety of client needs, photographers frequently offer two different types of sessions: mini and full. The primary difference between the two is the length of the shoot and the number of images you will receive. So how do you know which one is right for your family? Keep reading to learn how to choose between a mini session and a full session for family photography.
When to Go With a Mini Session
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If your family consists of adults and older children. Families that include adults and older children will have an easier time knocking out photographs quickly. They take direction easily and will be able to compose themselves in order to get a shot and move on to the next one.
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If you want a few updated pictures. If the last time you took family photos was from six months to a year ago, you probably don’t need or want much variety. You will likely only need a few posed photographs to update the pictures in a selection of frames, and therefore won’t need much time to get the shot.
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If you are limited on time or availability. For many people time is a serious constraint. However most mini sessions last no more than 30 minutes. If you need photographs that are simple and straightforward, then you shouldn’t need any more time. Minis are especially popular amongst adults whose children have moved out, and may live far apart. Everyone can show up prepared, take photographs, and still have the entire day left.
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If you have a smaller budget. Minis come at a cheaper price because they are predetermined time slots with limited options. Meaning you will have little to no input outside of what you wear. So you should either like the setting and props, or be willing to compromise to accommodate your budgetary restrictions.
When to Go With a Full Session
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If your family includes young children. Unlike adults, kids can be difficult to round up and to make sit or stand still. A simple task like smiling can be near impossible for some kids. A full session will give young children the time they need to get comfortable and start playing, so that they can be wrangled and posed without a fuss.
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If you want options. A full session means that the photographer will have nearly double the time to capture photographs. In many cases, this means they can get candid shots between posing, or take the time to test out any of your specific requests. In the end, you will have more shots to choose from for print. This is the best choice for a family who has yet to have family photos, or has not had their photos updated in several years.
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If you want to dictate the location. A mini session is typically limited to one location, with a select number of props. If you want to choose your own location/s and props then a full session will suit your needs better. Within the photographers comfort zone and capabilities, you will have much more freedom to dictate and customize the session to achieve your vision.
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If you want more control over the session. If you want to have a say on the posing, if you want an outfit change, if you have multiple locations in mind. All of this should be taken into consideration, because all of the above is nearly impossible to achieve during a mini. There simply isn’t enough time! With a full session, you will have the time to be more hands on, without feeling as strained for time.
At Florafost Photography, we strive to accommodate a variety of different clients needs. Through our consultation process, we are able to customize a photo session and determine a price unique to your needs. View our family gallery to get inspired, or contact us today to book a session. We look forward to helping you capture family photographs, and create and experience, that you will cherish for years to come.
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