Most of my families will book a full family session with me every year to have updated pictures, and I love working with my returning clients each spring and fall. But sometimes booking a smaller photoshoot is the way to go. There are so many things to consider when planning how to prepare for a mini session! And I’m going to help you through that process! đ„° From making sure your outfits are coordinated to arriving early and choosing the right theme, your mini session portraits will go smoothly with my tips and tricks. đđŒ
So first things first: you need to make sure you LIKE the theme of the mini session that you are considering. Depending on the season, photographers will have options for different types of sessions such as “Watermelon Summer Minis” or “Cap and Gown Minis”. If you arenât completely âsoldâ on the theme/background/set-up of the session then donât do it! It’s better to wait and see what a photographer will offer for their next one. Eventually, the perfect mini session will be offered! đ
After you have booked your time slot and paid the deposit, itâs time to pick out outfits! In my opinion, thatâs the first and most important step! If itâs a family mini session, you have to coordinate EVERYONEâs outfits. This takes some time, so be sure you plan ahead!
Everyone is Fed and Well-Rested
If you are bringing small children or babies to your family mini session, they need to have had a nap and eaten something beforehand. Your pictures will not be any fun if your kids are complaining about being hungry and tired. Unlike at my hour sessions, there won’t be a break for a quick snack. However, having a snack or treat for afterwards is encouraged.
How to Choose Your Outfits
The time of year makes a big decision in what your outfits will look like. If your mini session takes place in the fall, then browns, oranges, olive greens, even some purples are your best choice in color. However, you can’t forget about the backdrop! If you are posing against a line of orange trees than an orange dress may not be best! đ Do some research on where exactly your pictures will be taken.
Small prints are extremely difficult when it comes to editing after the session. It’s better to wear bigger prints such as a nice checkered shirt for the guys or flannels. I’m a country girl so I love my flannels, but only one member of the family should be wearing that type of pattern. Everyone else can coordinate by wearing solids. I promise it will look nicer, cleaner, and you wonât regret it. đ
To achieve the âlight and airyâ look, you need to dress the part (the camera canât do it all!). Avoid dark colors especially jeans and black pants. Wear light khakis, soft pastel colors and or creams, and a âflowyâ light colored dress. Sometimes we think of this color pattern only for spring or summer, but it really looks nice for the fall so the color of the changing leaves stands out! It’s pretty easy to find outfits these days (even at Walmart) in those “light and airy” colors. But if you are having troubles finding those colors, ask me, I can recommend some stores/online boutiques.
If your goal is to achieve a âbold and brightâ look, then I suggest royal blues, brighter pinks, brighter greens, etc.. Those will help make your images âpopâ. The other way to create these types of images is including bold colored backgrounds. A few examples would be a red barn, yellow brick wall, or a bright colored car, just to name a few. đ
A Few Important Tips
Make Sure You’re on Time!
Please arrive on time! There will most likely be other clients right before AND after you. If you arrive late, we will not be able to go later because it will run into the next session and thatâs not fair to the photographer and other families. I encourage my mini session clients to arrive at least 10 minutes early. Because guess what? If a mini session finishes earlier than expected, then I can start your session sooner. When you have kids involved, that’s always a win-win!
Let’s Include Extended Family
I do allow for âextended familyâ to be included in my family mini sessions. This is MORE than JUST your immediate family (mom, dad, son, and daughter). If you add in grandma or grandpa, that would be considered your âextended family.â I don’t mind adding those individuals, I just have to know that before you pay your invoice. Keep in mind that I charge a little bit more for that.
I Love Furry Friends!
Letâs talk about your sweet dogs. I love when my clients want to include dogs in their mini session. When it comes to your furry friends, they need to arrive on a leash and more than likely stay on a leash. I would need to make sure that the facility or location we are shooting minis allows dogs.
You’re going to have a great experience now that you know how to prepare for a mini session! Plan your ouffits ahead of time, arrive early so you’re ready to go, and get ready to connect with your family to create those one of a kind memories! For more information and to book a session with me, reach out with an email!
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