Thursday, August 28, 2025 | By: Kathleen Lucey Photography
To Mini or not to Mini?
There are few things I love more than planning out a photo session. I just love collaborating with clients to tell their stories in unique ways! In some cases, I'll send out a questionnaire so that folks can share the styles/hobbies/interests/locations that are meaningful to them, and together we create images that feel true to who they are.
Now- not everyone is up for all that! Some folks are really just looking for a quick and beautiful portrait and would rather not have to deal with the planning process. I offer that, too- and everything in between!
Some folks need a quick session for various reasons... maybe some kiddos (or adults in the family) have a smaller window of cooperation time, you could be on a set schedule, the lower price point might be more accessible, you could really just be looking for 'a couple good shots'... there are a lot of reasons that a mini session could be perfect for you!
In these sessions, I have a set location and time frame, and it is a super easy and convenient way to update those family portraits. Show up, snap-snap, and you're good to go!
There may be a lot of reasons why you'd prefer to choose a 'full' session, too!
If you'd like custom location(s), different outfit changes, stylized images using creative lighting, if you have a larger group, or if you'd just like to have more time, then I'd definitely recommend a longer session.
How long? For 'full' sessions, I don't set a timer. You have me for as long as it takes for us to tell your story together. Some folks still would rather keep it short, and other sessions go hours and span multiple locations. There's no 'one size fits all'. Every story is different, and so is every session!
What would your ideal session look like? Could you take photos all day, or would you rather wrap it up as quickly as possible? Do you like being part of the planning process, or would you rather show up and not have to think about it?
Check out the photos below... can you guess the 'full' session vs. the 'mini'? Pretty obvious. One required location scouting, purchase of props, and costume design. The other was her best dress off the hanger, and a few minutes at a local park. I love both of these photos for totally different reasons!
Comment your preference below!
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