What is a mini session?

Mini sessions are scheduled at a predetermined location on a specific date. They are only a few minutes long and you receive a handful of images. BUT it all comes at a reduced rate--it's like a sample session!

What to expect?

You will receive instructions specific to your session (regarding location and times) but there are a few things you can expect with any mini session:

Expect your photographer to have back to back sessions. There will be limited time between clients so punctuality is key! Allow yourself extra time to primp and make adjustments after you've arrived at the location. You may choose to dress children once you arrive to avoid wrinkles--but make sure you give yourself enough time to do so! If you are late for your session you may not get your full time.

Expect to move quickly. Your photographer wants to get to know you but they will also move through poses quickly. My style is very candid. I will give instructions like "snuggle baby, put your cheeks together, look at sister, laugh at mommy!" I want to capture genuine moments! I will also ask for everyone to look at the camera for a few shots. Trust me, your photographer can capture plenty of images very quickly!

Expect that I will do my best to keep children happy, entertained, and to capture their smiles. But kids are unpredictable! I know this and I work with them to get the best smiles I can. I will also bring a variety of props that cater to different ages. We just have fun with it!

Expect to have your gallery one week later! This is a huge feat for any photographer, but I know how excited you are to see your images and to use them for your holiday cards or photo books--so I like to send your galleries ASAP. This means you can expect me to work around the clock the entire week after mini session day.

Expect to receive a gallery with more images than you paid for! I let you choose your five favorites--or you may choose to purchase the entire gallery! Once you've made your decision, your gallery will be finalized and available for download.

What should we wear?

I alway recommend the pickiest person choose their outfit first. Once that is decided, coordinate all other outfits. I generally don't recommend matching--but there are so many adorable matching outfits (I'm looking at you Hannah Andersson!)-- so I'll let it slide. I just don't recommend the kind of matching where everyone wears jeans with a white t-shirt. Instead, coordinate colors and add multiple textures. Dressing in layers not only adds interest to an image but also allows you to prepare for the potentially cold weather!

I love dresses! They add movement and visual interest to an image! They are beautiful, flattering and provide variety in clothing.

Choose earthy colors that fit the season! Above is an example for the Christmas season. The colors all coordinate well together--as shown in the color palette. The colors are not too bright or "unnatural," meaning they will fit into the nature landscape. Please avoid neon colors!

There are often small things that get overlooked. Since we move quickly during mini sessions, your photographer might not notice them until it's too late! This includes hair ties on wrists, smart watches that may light up, cell phones, wallets, and keys that create a lump in pockets, and sunglasses over the eyes or on a shirt. I recommend leaving what you can in your car.

Lastly, don't forget accessories! Earrings, bracelets, hair bows, and belts are all a welcome addition. Nice shoes are important because you will have images that show your feet! Don't forget the little ones--I'd hate for you to curate the perfect outfit only to pair it with green crocs! Avoid clothes with movie characters and large logos, tiny stripes and tiny print (large print is fine).

If you have any questions or need clothing suggestions just reach out to me through email, phone, or text!

I can't wait to see you at your next mini session!