October 28, 2024
You just booked a mini session!! YAY!!! I’m so excited for you!!! Mini sessions are such a fantastic opportunity to capture your family in this stage of life, just as you all are right now. I know you’re going to be putting a lot of thought into allll the things to prepare for your session, and you’re probably checking your kids’ closets right now for that perfect outfit (go with the comfy one, I swear you won’t regret it!!).
Over the last nine years of photographing families, I’ve gathered a ton of tips for successful mini sessions, so that you can create fun and lasting memories for your family. This blog post is all about how we can make your life a whole lot easier and set you up for success at your next mini session. Ready to get into it? Let’s go!
When choosing outfits for your mini session, look in your closets for clothing your kids have already worn, rather than opting for buying something new. This not only will help your kids feel more at ease by being in clothing that’s familiar and comfortable for them; but it also has the added benefit of making your photos feel more natural and authentic to you!
Before your session, double-check the weather forecast! While Fall typically makes you think of cozy sweaters and warm boots, here in Southern California we can get last minute heat waves and dry dusty winds (hello Santa Ana’s!) all the way into November. In order to keep everyone comfortable and happy, check the weather in the days leading up to your session and be prepared to pivot with clothing if it gets hot (or rainy!).
Particularly for moms and little girls, opt for hairstyles that keep hair out of your face. This way, your eyes and your full face will be visible in your photos. Hairstyles that pull your hair back or pin the front pieces out of your face are helpful for keeping your eyes and your full face visible. Another bonus is that if your hair is already pinned back, you won’t be distracted by constantly tucking it behind your ears during your session! You can check out this Pinterest Board I created to give you some inspo!!
Since mini sessions are shorter than full family sessions, it’s important to prioritize getting that classic family portrait (i.e. the holiday card photo) first while the kids are still focused. After that, try to keep your expectations low for having everyone looking straight at the camera and smiling. For sessions like these, you can typically expect 1-2 photos of your kids looking at the camera, followed by lots of adorable candid moments with different groupings of family members!
Creating a fun and positive atmosphere is key! Kids will pick up on your energy, so try to avoid controlling their behavior too much or using disciplinary phrases during the session. Instead, encourage a playful vibe, so that it becomes a positive and memorable experience for them! When working with families, I like to follow the kids’ lead and incorporate their play into the photos, which allows for all those fun genuine moments to shine through.
So there they are! My top 5 tips for successful mini sessions. I can’t wait to see what magic we create together! Want to see some more family session inspo? Check out this fun, play filled family session at Balboa Park!
Be the first to comment