Why You Should Book a Full Family Photo Session Instead of a Mini Sessions

Why You Should Book a Family Photo Session Instead of a Mini Session

You know those magic moments with your kids? The real ones – where they’re in their element, being their goofy, sweet, wild selves? Those rarely happen in the first 30 minutes of meeting someone new. That’s why I typically don’t suggest clients who are working with me for the first time to book a mini session. A full family photo session where we can really relax and get to know one another allows us to create photos that really feel like your personality.

I’ve spent countless hours watching kids be kids during photo sessions. I’ve noticed something pretty interesting: those frame-worthy shots that make you go, “That’s SO them!” – they almost always happen after everyone’s had a chance to settle in and get comfy. When kids don’t feel forced to perform, they cooperate better. But here’s what happens around the 30-minute mark – everyone starts to chill out. Kids forget I’m even taking photos. Parents stop stressing about “getting the perfect shot.” And that’s when the magic starts to happen.

It’s not about having enough time to “get the shot.” Honestly? It’s about giving your kids enough breathing room to completely forget we’re even taking photos. When we try to rush through with forced smiles and “Everyone looks here!” moments, we miss out on the good stuff – you know, the real you. I’m talking about those full-belly giggles, those sweet little spontaneous hugs, that classic look your toddler gives right before they’re about to get into mischief.

Think about your favorite photos of your kids right now. I bet they’re not the ones where everyone’s saying “cheese” at the camera. They’re probably those perfect random moments – maybe your kiddo is mid-laugh, giving their sibling that look, or just caught up in their little world. That’s exactly why I do 90-minute family photo sessions. Not because kids can’t handle longer shoots (trust me, they totally can), but because they need time to do their thing without feeling like they’re “performing” for the camera.

The Timeline of How Kids Actually Behave During Photos

First 30 minutes: Kids are like, “Nope, I’m not showing my real personality yet.” They might be shy, stiff, or testing boundaries. You’re probably reminding them to “smile nice!” every few minutes.

Next 30 minutes: The shoulders relax. The fake smiles fade away. Your daughter starts twirling her dress just because she wants to. Your son shows me his favorite superhero move without prompting. You stop worrying if everyone is “behaving properly.”

Last 30 minutes: This is where the gold happens. Everyone’s in their element. Those belly laughs come out. The sweet sibling moments unfold naturally. Your family’s actual personality shines through.

With a standard one-hour family photo session? We’d be packing up just when things were getting good.

Want to know the best part? Kids cooperate more when they don’t feel rushed or pressured to “behave” for photos. They can take little breaks when needed and get their wiggles out. One of my favorite things is to let them turn into the creative director and ask what poses they want to do. Not only does this allow them to be heard, but it also gets them more engaged in the photos. Sometimes, the images that they direct can be some of my favorites since they are so excited to take them!

So yeah, 90 minutes might sound like a long time for family photo session. But in reality, when you think about allowing time to warm up in front of the camera and get breaks now and then, the 90 minutes will fly by, and before you know it, you’ll think, “That was it? That was so easy!”

With 90 minutes, you get to:

1. Start with gentle warming-up time where kids can explore and get comfortable
2. Capture both the “perfect” posed shots AND the delightful candid moments in between
3. Visit multiple locations or backgrounds without rushing
4. Kids can take breaks when they need to without derailing everything
5. We can switch locations or activities when interest fades
6. There’s room for snack breaks or outfit changes
7. Everyone gets to be photographed as individuals, not just in the group shots
8. We can follow your children’s lead instead of forcing them into poses
9. Let children move at their own pace rather than forcing quick poses
10. Document real family dynamics and personalities, not just smiles
11. Have time for individual shots of each child being themselves

Here are those magical moments that typically emerge in the “sweet spot” of an extended session:

The “I Forgot About the Camera” moments:

1. A toddler naturally reaching up for mom’s face during a cuddle
2. Siblings playing together instead of just posing
3. That mischievous grin right before a child does something silly
4. A genuine belly laugh when Dad does his goofy dance

The “Finding Their Groove” moments:

1. The shy 3-year-old who finally starts twirling in her dress
2. A typically reserved child showing off their superhero moves
3. Kids inventing their own poses or suggesting photo ideas
4. Natural interactions between siblings without prompting

The “Pure Joy” captures:

1. The genuine smiles that reach their eyes, not the “say cheese” ones
2. Spontaneous hugs between family members
3. Children getting excited to show you their favorite toy/skill
4. Those tender parent-child moments that happen naturally

The “Personality Shines” shots:

1. The serious child who finally lets their guard down
2. The wild child having a peaceful moment
3. Siblings showing their unique dynamic
4. A child’s specific expressions that parents instantly recognize as “so them.”

Planning Your Own Family Photo Session

Those authentic moments are worth giving ourselves a little extra time to find. Trust me on this one – your future self will thank you when you look back at photos that capture your children’s spirits, not just their “photo day” smiles. If you’re ready to book your family session click here to secure your date! Once you book your session use this outfit inspiration board to plan what you’ll wear during your session.