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Whether you are actively seek them out or Google suggests the search term “Raleigh photographer mini session” while you’re scouring the internet for family photographers, we have all heard the buzzword Mini Sessions in connection to family photography. So just what are they? I’m a Raleigh photographer specializing in family photography – and my mini sessions are the perfect way to capture your special memories. Read on to get the scoop on all you need to know about mini sessions and see if they may be just what you are looking for!

What’s a mini session?

Think of it like a cake pop versus a whole slice of cake. It’s just enough to get a few updated portraits – but a smaller investment that pays off! Mini sessions are much shorter than standard photoshoots, usually less than 15 minutes. As they are a shorter amount of time, they are more cost-effective. Need a few updated pics of the fam for your gallery wall and Christmas card? Have a grumpy tween, toddler (or husband) who can’t be trusted to cooperate during a long photoshoot? Want to capture a special milestone in your baby’s first year at a great price point? Mini Sessions to the rescue!

How does it work?

After you’ve booked your time slot, we’ll meet at a pre-determined, super lovely location around the Raleigh area. We will pull out all the stops…laughs, tickles, snuggles, and capture those memories! They only have to cooperate for about 10-15 minutes or so. I’m a lifestyle family photographer, so I prefer to let everyone relax and be themselves. We’ll keep it short, sweet, casual and fun… and that’s it! So, got photo-resistant dads and littles? No problem! You’ll get a handful of high-quality images without interrupting your weekend routine or inducing any tween and toddler meltdowns.

Mini sessions have tons of benefits, but there are some trade-offs, too.

Set Dates & Set Times

Because they’re scheduled back-to-back with other clients, they occur on set dates and set times in set locations in and around Raleigh and surrounding areas – rather than in your home or preferred location. And although the small time investment is great for busy families, the time slots are limited and pre-determined by the photographer, so you may have to choose a non-optimal time to get these great deals on mini sessions.

Minis are often Seasonal

Another drawback is that my mini sessions aren’t offered year-round. Most photographers – myself included – only offer them seasonally. Because they’re seasonal, they also tend to have some kind of theme, so depending on what kind of family photos you want to capture, they may simply just not be in season.

Small number of Images

Finally, mini sessions will only give you a small amount of images. For most families, the ability to get a handful of beautiful, candid photos in under 15 minutes is WELL worth it, but if you’re overdue for a family photo session and want access to a larger gallery, you might prefer to go with one of my other photo packages. 

Connect with me

Thinking a mini session is for you? Let’s connect! I offer a variety of mini sessions throughout the year in the Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas. We have so many amazing locations around the area, I am always offering somewhere new! These spring mini sessions were located at the Raleigh Rose Garden this year, and the backdrop couldn’t have been more stunning! You can check out my Mini Sessions page to see my current mini session dates & locations. And as always, feel free to reach out with any questions via my contact form!