Your Mini Session

So you booked your mini session. Now what?


I’m so excited to capture your family together! Your mini session is designed to give you beautiful, natural images of your family in just 15 minutes. I’ll gently guide you throughout the session while also giving your family space to interact naturally and be yourselves.


Here are a few tips to help you get ready for your session with me.

A mother in a black lace dress walks hand-in-hand with her young son and daughter in a field.

Location


Your mini session will take place at the specific location listed when you booked. You can find the location details in your booking information.

Time


Your mini session time is confirmed when you book. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled session time so your family is ready to go when your 15 minutes begins.


Because mini sessions are scheduled back-to-back, I’m unable to extend your session if you arrive late. If you arrive late, I cannot guarantee that you will receive a full gallery.


Please plan ahead for traffic, parking, and getting everyone ready before your scheduled time.

Length of Session


Your mini session is 15 minutes, so we'll make the most of our time together! I’ll guide you through a variety of prompts and poses so we can capture a beautiful mix of family images and individual moments.

What to Wear


Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are. I do not recommend matching but rather coordinating. Click here to read a guide I wrote to help you select what your family should wear for your session. I am happy to consult you directly on wardrobe if you are interested. Just let me know.

Props


I do not use props during my sessions. I bring a blanket to sit on and keep everyone comfortable and cozy if needed.

My Wagon


I bring a little wagon to carry any personal items, diaper bag, blanket and little legs if necessary.

Your Children


Kids don’t usually love being told to pose or smile, so the best photos happen when they can just be themselves. Most of the toddler images on my site were captured while kids were playing, exploring, and having fun. For family shots, I usually guide adults to simply interact naturally with their little ones, hold them, or play together - everything else falls into place.


To get the most out of your session, make sure your child is rested, fed, and hydrated. We can take breaks for snacks or play, and I often keep shooting during those moments. Dry, non-messy snacks are best to keep little faces clean. It also helps to let your child know ahead of time that a friend will be taking pictures, so it’s not a surprise.


Click here to read a post I wrote about preparing children for a family photo session.

A blonde mother walks with her two young daughters in matching blue dresses on a green lawn.
A mother sits on a blanket outdoors surrounded by her four young children in autumn foliage.
A cheerful young boy in a blue jacket grins while being hugged from behind by an adult outside.

I can't wait to capture your family!


Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! sam@samjacksonphotography.com