The Do’s and Don’ts of a Successful Mini Session with Your Family Photographer
Mini sessions are a fantastic way to capture beautiful, professional family photos in a short amount of time. These sessions are designed to be quick, efficient, and stress-free—but a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring everything runs smoothly. When you book a mini session with EKP you’ll receive a mini session guide tailored to these special sessions with lots of tips and helpful information. However, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind for your next mini session!
First, the do’s…
Do: Be On Time
Mini sessions are scheduled back-to-back, often with little to no buffer between families. Arriving on time—or better yet, a few minutes early—ensures you get the full duration of your session without cutting into another family's time. Plan for potential delays and aim to arrive ready to start. Also, read the final confirmation email carefully for tips about parking and the route to take to where I’m holding sessions. Knowing what to look for in advance will help ensure a timely and stress-free arrival.
Do: Bring Small Bribes for Children
Let’s face it, kids can sometimes need a little extra encouragement to cooperate during a photo session and mini sessions don’t allow a lot of time for shy or hesitant kiddos to warm up. Small, non-messy bribes like gummies or candies can work wonders to get cooperation when we’re on the clock.
Do: Prep Children Ahead of Time
Children often feel more at ease when they know what to expect. Talk to them beforehand about the session, explain what they’ll be doing, and even practice posing or smiling for photos. This preparation can help reduce anxiety and make the session enjoyable for everyone. When you book your session you’ll receive a mini session guide AND a client information guide. These should give you a comprehensive idea of what to expect during your session and help better prepare your child, too!
Now, for some don’ts…
Don’t: Bring Surprise Guests or Requests
Mini sessions are meticulously planned to accommodate one family per time slot. Bringing an unexpected guest, like extended family members or pets, can disrupt the flow of the session. Similarly, last-minute requests for special poses or setups can throw off the schedule. Communicate all your needs and expectations during the booking process to allow me to consider how to best accomplish your goals while staying on schedule for the day.
Don’t: Encroach on the Session Before Yours
Arriving too early or hanging out too closely to the session location can create unnecessary tension. Respect the photographer’s schedule and wait for your allotted time to begin before you approach. Keep the photographer in view so you’ll see her when she signals you over. This ensures everyone gets the attention they deserve.
Don’t: Ask for “Just a Few More Shots”
Mini sessions are designed to be short and focused. Asking for extra photos can lead to delays and affect subsequent sessions. Trust your photographer to capture the key moments during the scheduled time, and remember that additional shots are available in a full-length session. If you know a running clock could make you anxious during your session, consider booking a full session where time isn’t as much of a priority.
By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you’ll set the stage for a fun, efficient, and successful mini session. Remember, your photographer is there to create beautiful memories for your family, and a little preparation can make all the difference! Ready to hear more about upcoming mini session offerings at EKP? Fill out a contact form to be added to my VIP List and get first access to all mini session information before the public.
