Mini Sessions vs Full Sessions: Which Is Right for Your Family Photos?
One of the most common questions I get as a Manhattan Beach family photographer is: “What is the difference between a mini session and a full session?”
Both are great options for capturing your family, but they are designed for different needs. Here is how to decide which one is right for you.
When Are Mini Sessions Offered?
I offer mini sessions in Los Angeles twice a year, in the spring and fall.
Spring mini sessions are usually released one to two months before the session date and include favorites like mugshot minis, wildflower minis, motherhood minis, and beach mini sessions. I especially love beach minis in the spring before the summer crowds arrive.
Fall mini sessions are released in July and usually book quickly. These include beach sessions, trail sessions, simple studio minis, back-to-school mugshot minis, and Santa sessions in my Manhattan Beach studio.
Mini Session vs Full Session
Time
Mini sessions are short and sweet, usually around 15 minutes.
Full family photography sessions are typically around 45 minutes- an hour (unless it is a newborn session). Some kids are ready to go right away, while others need a little more time to warm up. Full sessions give us more flexibility to move at your child’s pace.
Images
With a full session, you receive all of the final edited images from your session.
Mini sessions include a smaller gallery, usually 5 to 10 images depending on the session. You choose your favorites from the gallery (there is always more than the included amount), and if you love more than the included images, you can always purchase additional images or upgrade to the full gallery.
Many families love this option because they can decide after seeing their photos what they truly want to keep. Even upgrading to the full gallery is still a great value compared to booking a full session, while keeping the session shorter for your child.
Which One Is Right For Your Child?
This is usually the biggest deciding factor.
Some kids walk in and are ready immediately. They love exploring, smiling, and being in front of the camera.
Other kids need time. Some children need 15 minutes just to warm up and feel comfortable.
If your child needs time to adjust, a mini session may not be the best fit because we only have a short window together. A full session allows us to slow down and capture more natural moments.
If your child is comfortable in front of the camera or you just want updated photos for the year, a mini session can be the perfect option.
Mini Sessions Are Great For:
✓ Holiday cards
✓ Yearly updated photos
✓ Quick seasonal photos
✓ Kids with shorter attention spans
✓ Families wanting beautiful images without a longer session
Full Sessions Are Great For:
✓ More variety
✓ More family combinations
✓ More time to relax
✓ Capturing your child’s personality naturally
Whether you choose a mini session or a full family photography session in Los Angeles, the goal is always the same: beautiful images of your family that feel genuine and reflect this season of life.