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Mini Session vs Full Session Photographers

What is considered a mini photo session? - A common question that comes up when browsing a photographer services section of a website. Here are the main differences between full and mini session:


What is a Mini Photo Session?

The definition of mini session is a short 10-15 minute photoshoot at a specific time and place. For example, Charleston Mini Sessions are reserved by a website visitor and the photographer shows up to the scheduled location at the agreed upon time and date (in Charleston). After the 10-15 minutes of photography is finished, the photo subjects should expect to receive a set of edited photos from the day in their inbox within a few days. Unless they paid extra for same-day delivery options.


What is a Full Session?

In contrast, full photoshoot sessions are when the client and photographer book a longer time slot to take photos well in advance. Full photoshoots require more planning and money. They often take place in photo studios with professional lighting and backgrounds. In most cases, photographers will offer the option to book a quick mini session at an affordable price for more flexibility. While also offering the option to book a longer photoshoot in a professional setting.


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How Do I Choose The Best Option?

Like most things, it depends! How many pictures do you need for a 30 minute session? Typically you could get around 20 photos to choose between. A full session which is usually an hour long will have 40-50 pictures to look through.


Why you should choose a mini session

  • Quick and easy

  • Great for people who can't pose for long periods (like kids)

  • No need to warm up to the camera

  • Can be done anywhere


Why you should choose a full session

  • More time to get comfortable

  • Extra photo options to choose from

  • You have time to plan your outfit(s)

  • Enough time to guarantee multiple great shots



Is 15 Minutes Enough for a Photoshoot?

Professional photographers that specialize in affordable photography sessions can get at least 1 good portrait photo in as little as 5-10 minutes. Charleston Mini Sessions has years of experience so 15 minutes is usually all it takes to get clients warmed up and satisfied with the results. There's also the added bonus of taking less time to choose the best photo due the the smaller photoshoot gallery.


What Does a Photography Mini Session Include?

Different photographers offer different packages. Besides the base price of a mini session, mini session add-ons can include some of the following bonuses:


  1. Unlimited digital downloads

  2. Additional time to not feel rushed

  3. Next-day or same-day photo edits

  4. Extra friends and family

  5. Exclusive locations only known by local photographers


Plus much more depending on the quality of the mini session service.


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Mini Session vs Full Session: Which is Right For You?

Regardless of whether you choose to do a mini session or a full session, make the most of your time in front of the camera. Capture beautiful memories of yourself, your friends, and your family to treasure for years to come. Remember to have fun!


Charleston Mini Sessions is a Charleston, SC photographer service offering fast photoshoots for families, individuals, and small groups. Available year-round for photo sessions as short as 15-20 minutes! Get same-day delivery and free parking when you book a mini-session today!


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