Richmond Hill Family Photos: What Type Is Best for Your Family?
Richmond Hill Family Photos by Kelley Renee Photography
When it comes to capturing your annual family photos, deciding between a mini session or a full session can be a bit daunting. Both have their unique advantages and can be perfect depending on your family’s needs. Let’s break down the considerations to help you choose the best option for your family!
Children’s Age: The Little Ones
If your children are under the age of five, a full session might be more suitable. Young children often need extra time to get comfortable in a new environment and warm up to their photographer. It’s not uncommon for them to take 20 minutes or more before they feel at ease and start showing those genuine smiles and laughter. They might also need breaks for snacks or water to keep them happy and cooperative.
In a full session, there's ample time for these necessary breaks. The extended duration allows for a relaxed pace, ensuring that your little ones can get used to the surroundings and the camera. This results in more natural and joyful photos. On the other hand, mini sessions typically last less than 20 minutes, which might not be enough time for your young children to fully acclimate and relax, potentially making the session more stressful for both them and you.
Location: Setting the Scene
With a full session, you have the luxury of choosing from my list of various locations that match the vibe and aesthetic you’re aiming for. Whether it’s a vibrant park, a rustic grassy field, or an urban setting with unique textures and colors, the choice is yours. This flexibility allows us to tailor the session to your family’s personality and preferences, ensuring that the backdrop complements your style and enhances the overall feel of the photos.
Mini sessions, however, are held at a pre-determined location, and I typically stay in one spot throughout the day for back-to-back appointments. While this can be convenient, it means you have less control over the setting. If the chosen location aligns with your vision, a mini session can be a quick and efficient way to get some beautiful family portraits. But if you have a specific backdrop in mind, a full session would be a better fit, providing you with the opportunity to select the perfect location.
Timing: Flexibility Matters
Timing is another crucial factor to consider. Full sessions offer greater flexibility, allowing us to schedule around your family’s routine, including work schedules, school timings, and nap times. This ensures that everyone is well-rested and in a good mood for the session, which is essential for capturing those perfect moments.
Mini sessions are usually scheduled for a specific day with limited time slots. This can be convenient if you’re able to plan ahead and ensure that everyone is available and ready at the designated time. However, if your schedule is unpredictable or if coordinating everyone’s availability is challenging, a full session would provide the necessary flexibility to accommodate your family’s needs.
The Decision: Mini Session or Full Session?
Ultimately, the decision between a mini session and a full session depends on what you’re looking for and what suits your family best. If you’re after some quick, beautiful family portraits and are available on the mini session day, this option can be convenient and efficient. Mini sessions are also a great choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or if your kids are older and can quickly get into the groove of the photoshoot.
However, if you want a more personalized experience with ample time for your little ones to get comfortable, the ability to choose your preferred location, and the flexibility to schedule at your convenience, a full session is definitely the way to go. This option ensures that we can take our time to capture your family, a in turn will be less stressful for you and your family.
So, whether you’re looking for a quick session or the convenience of a full experience, both mini and full sessions offer fantastic opportunities for you and your family. If you’re not sure what’s best for you, feel free to reach out and we can discuss options for you!