Is a Petite session right for you?
Petite sessions (or mini-sessions) are great. They are short and might fit your budget better than a full session. I totally get it, which is why I offer them. But they are not for everyone and let me dig into the why a little more for you.
What is a petite session?
A petite session is a very compressed version of a full-length session. Full-length sessions last up to an hr but a petite session is anywhere from 10-15 minutes. These petite sessions take place at a pre-determined location, with a block of times the photographer makes available.
Why consider a petite session?
So, why should you consider booking a mini session? Usually the biggest reason for booking a mini session is the cost. Since a petite session takes less time and you receive less photos, they are less expensive to book than a full session. You may utilize the shorter session because you need only a few images for some frames on your wall or capturing a great shot for your family holiday card. A petite is also great if you are trying our a photographer for the first time and would like to get a taste of their style without making a large investment. You get a slice of the cake!
15 minutes is really plenty of time for great photos of any cooperative subject. That means that a mini-session might be right for you if you are looking for couples photos, maternity photos, candid motherhood portraits, baby portraits (works best with 6-9 month old sitters not yet crawlers) or photos with school age children. Petite sessions can be a great opportunity to capture some newborn snuggles. All that being said, minis aren’t for everyone.
Why you should avoid petite sessions?
Because mini-sessions are mini, the time limitation can be an issue. More reserved children tend to take more warm up time for feeling comfortable in front of the camera and sitting still long enough for the photos. Should your child start crying at the beginning of the session there will likely not be enough time to get him smiling before the session is over.
Toddlers are often too restless to be still for sit and smile photos. However if you are more interested in candid, playful moments with your tot a petite session could work great for you!
With any subject who needs time built in to convince them to cooperate, petite sessions just aren’t long enough to guarantee the photos you desire. For newborns, active toddlers, and large family groups (more than 5 people) you’ll probably be happier with the results of a full-length session instead.
In addition, if you would like photos at a particular location or time, mini-sessions simply do not allow the flexibility.
three reasons a mini-session might be right for you
You’re hoping to save a bit of money on your photos
You’re trying out a photographer for the first time
Your family being photographed is likely to be cooperative
Does this sound like you? Great let’s book your mini-session now!
THREE REASONS A MINI-SESSION MIGHT NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU
You have an active toddler, a shy child, or a large family that you’d like photos of
If you are wanting more opportunity to capture the specific kids of photos you want
You would like a specific time of day to schedule your photos
Mini-sessions are wonderful but they are not for every family. Carefully considering the pros and cons of a mini-session and choosing which type of session works best for you will maximize your happiness with your results.
