Have you been wondering if a mini session is good for your family?

The number one question I get asked as a family photographer in St. Louis is “Do you shoot family mini sessions?’. The answer is yes…but only a very limited number each year. You maybe wondering why I only offer a few mini sessions each year. Over the years I have found that a shorter family session, like a mini session, only really works well for a small group of people. And to be honest, it doesn’t align wonderfully with the way I like to shoot my family sessions. The goal for me with a family session is to provide a laid back, fun, and beautiful experience. I find that sometimes a shorter session can feel very rushed and does not allow some children to really open up like a full family session does. So, who is a mini session good for then?

Who is a good fit?

After four years as a St. Louis family photographer, I have found mini (or petite sessions) are best for:

• Previous clients who have shot with me before and know my style
• Maternity session who is pregnant with their first child
• Families who have no preference on a location
• A family with only one child who is not mobile
• Families with children who are older school aged and cooperative
• A family with outgoing, very cooperative, and not shy
• Someone who had a full session with me that year but wants a few photos for a milestone or holiday card

Who should think about a full session instead?

It can be hard to know which session is right for your family. Here are some people I think should consider a full session instead:

• Families with multiple children under 6.
• A family with a quiet or extremely shy child
• A family who wants to have more control over location
• If you are wanting a more diverse gallery with different location backdrops and poses
• You want to capture ALL the moments!

I open up petite and full sessions each year to my newsletter subscribers first. You can get on that list here:

-Angie