Mini Sessions vs Full Sessions
A lot of people ask me if I offer mini sessions. The answer is, yes! Sometimes I do. Make sure to sign up for email notifications and follow me on Instagram (@kelseycunninghamphoto) if you want to be in the know when mini sessions are happening.
But now I have a question for you: do you actually want a mini session? Let’s chat about the options!
Mini Sessions
Mini sessions usually last 15 minutes and include a full gallery of images for download.
With the shortened session length, you spend less than you would with a full session.
Mini sessions aren’t for everyone! Mini sessions are great for families with 1 child, families with older kids, and families with kids who are very cooperative.
Minis provide an opportunity for a quick burst of photos that even Dad won’t mind too much. Some families opt to do a mini session multiple times each year to celebrate milestones or capture the fast change of growing littles.
Mini sessions are great for cold temps! I totally get that many kids can’t last much more than 15 minutes outside when it’s cold.
Minis are not for people who are always running late. I schedule mini sessions back to back, so if you can’t handle the stress of arriving early/on time, a mini session is not for you.
Full Sessions
Full sessions last about 45-60 minutes and include a full gallery of images for download.
While full sessions are more expensive than minis, you will always receive a larger gallery if you have a longer session.
Having more time for photos means your gallery will have a larger variety of poses and backdrops. We’ll also have more time for candid moments and those in-between images that everyone loves!
Clients who book full sessions usually get to select their start time and location. (But don’t worry…I’ll provide guidance on timing and always send you my Location Guide so you can see all my favorite spots around Pittsburgh.) Full session clients can also opt to have photos taken at their home!
Some kids need a little time to warm up. Full sessions allow time for kids who are timid at first. We can move at a more leisurely pace, exploring nature or playing little games until your little ones are smiling naturally!
There’s a time and a place for mini sessions, and that’s why I offer them! They can be a great option for many families, but they’re not right for everyone.
This blog was updated on 1/14/26.