Mini Sessions vs. Full Sessions: What’s Right for Your Family?
- Family photography blog
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
So you’re ready to book family photos — yay!
But now you’re staring at my package list, wondering:
Do I book a mini session or a full session?
Will 20 minutes be enough?
Do I need the longer one?
Am I going to regret not choosing the other?
Totally normal questions — and as a full-time Vancouver family photographer with 15+ years of experience,
I’ve got answers that’ll help you decide what’s best for your crew.
What Is a Mini Session?
A Mini Session is short, sweet, and efficient.
Think:
- 20 minutes
- 5 digital images included
- One location
- Fast-paced and fun
Perfect for:
✔️ Families who want updated photos without committing to a full shoot
✔️ Kids (or partners 😅) with short attention spans
✔️ Holiday card photos or milestone markers
✔️ Budget-conscious families looking for an affordable family photographer in Vancouver
At My City Photos, I offer Mini Sessions in-studio or outdoors, with options for family, maternity, and seasonal themes.
👉 See HERE for what Mini Sessions I have available right now!
What’s Included in a Full Session?
A Full Session gives us time to slow down and get creative.
It includes:
- 40+ minutes
- 10+ digital images included
- More flexibility with posing, location, and variety
- Extra time for kids to warm up, snack breaks, and relaxed pacing
Perfect for:
✔️ Families who want multiple groupings, like grandparents, cousins, or pets
✔️ Newborns or maternity sessions where you may need to pause + regroup
✔️ Creative concepts (picnics, outfit changes, movement shots)
✔️ Clients who want a larger gallery to choose from or plan to print wall art
How to Choose the Right One for You
Ask yourself:
- Is this just for one great holiday card image? → Mini.
- Do I want a range of photos with different groupings? → Full.
- Are my kids a bit shy and need time to open up? → Full.
- Do I want a fast session, simple background, and a handful of great photos? → Mini.
Do I want updated photos of the kids every season — like cherry blossoms, fall leaves, beach vibes? → Mini (book a few per year!)
Am I marking a big milestone — a birthday, pregnancy, graduation, or family visit? → Full (more time = more storytelling)
Do I just want to make sure Mom is in the photos this time, not behind the camera? → Mini or Full (but DO it)
Do I want to create a photo album or a wall collage with tons of variety? → Full (you’ll have lots to work with)
Do I need just a few amazing shots and want to keep it low-key? → Mini
Do I want to document a little piece of our everyday life this year? → Mini or a Documentary Session (zero posing, all real)
Am I planning on booking again later this year? → Mini now, Full next time (mix it up!)
Still unsure? I’m always happy to help you decide based on your family’s vibe and your goals for the session.
Quick Note on Mini Session Expectations
Mini sessions are amazing — but they’re not just shorter full sessions. They’re designed for simplicity, speed, and efficiency. If you want a wide variety of photos, locations, or poses, a full session will serve you better.
Final Thoughts
No matter what session you choose, you’re going to walk away with beautiful, natural images that capture your family in a way that feels real.
I guide you every step of the way — from choosing outfits to getting genuine smiles out of wild toddlers.
Whether you want to keep it quick and affordable with a mini, or slow down and savor a full session, I’ve got a package that fits.
✨ View all session options HERE
Thanks for reading, and never hesitate to reach out!
I hope my blog about Mini Sessions vs. Full Sessions: What’s Right for Your Family? was helpful!
:) LL
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