Mini Session vs. Full Session: Which One Is Right for You?

If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or chatting with friends about family photos, you’ve probably seen the term mini session pop up. But what exactly is a mini session—and how does it compare to a full session? Let’s break it down so you can decide which one fits your family best!

What’s a Mini Session?

A mini session is a short and sweet photoshoot, usually around 15 minutes, designed to get you a handful of beautiful, professional images—quickly and affordably.

They’re ideal if:

• You have little ones with a short attention span

• You want seasonal or themed photos (think fall setups, holiday magic, or styled florals)

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly way to update your family portraits

• You just need a few great shots for a holiday card or gift

What’s awesome about my mini sessions at What A Natural is that even if there's a styled setup, we always sneak in a few neutral, timeless shots too—so you get the best of both worlds: something fun and festive + something classic and natural.

What’s a Full Session?

A full session gives you the space and flexibility to truly tell your story. It’s perfect if:

• You’ve never had professional photos before and want to capture a fuller story

• You’re celebrating something special: maternity, an anniversary, a birthday, engagement, etc.

• You want to explore multiple locations at a particular site or change outfits

• You’re looking for a large gallery with lots of variety—both candid and posed

Unlike mini sessions, full sessions are often not restricted by time. We go at your pace, wander around, laugh, pause if needed, and capture all the in-between moments that truly reflect your relationships.

So Which Should You Book?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

	Mini Session	Full Session
Duration	15 minutes	Typically 45+ minutes
Price	Lower, set price	Higher, customizable
Location	Pre-selected	Flexible—multiple options
Outfit Changes	None	One or more
Gallery Size	10+ edited images	50+ edited images
Best For	Quick updates, holiday cards, small kids	Milestones, new clients, full family story

No matter which you choose, I’m here to make it natural, stress-free, and true to you. Still not sure which option fits your needs best? DM me or send an inquiry—I’d love to help you plan the session that’s right for you!