Those of you on my newsletter list often get notices about my mini sessions which are typically seasonal and subject to what I have open on my calendar. You may have found yourself wondering if you should book a mini session or full session with me when planning your family portraits. From September through November there are usually special offers for family sessions and mini session dates. Both are a great opportunity to get Christmas cards and are usually my busiest months for family portraits. In this post I’m going to go over the benefits and differences between the two sessions so that you can make the best decision for your family.
Regular Sessions
More Options. First time clients pay a session fee when they book their date. They typically contact me with a phone all or email where I will get a chance to learn about your family and what you are wanting from your session. During a regular session you will be able to choose the best date for you. You will also get to choose the location. I will come to you or you can come to one of my favorite locations. We will discuss it when I talk to you and find out what’s best for you.
Personal Service from Start to Finish. Regular sessions are focused on your entire family from start to finish. We will have fun. I will have time to get to know each of you a little bit, so if you have a shy child this will give me a chance to draw her out. We will do several poses, some fun, casual shots as well as posed ones. I will also take individual pictures of each of your children, sibling groups, and other group shots. You can change clothes, include pets, and your gallery will have a nice range of 30-40 images to choose from.
Regular sessions are great for the entire family because you are paying for my time and I am at your service during that time. I will also take the time to discuss what you want to do with your prints and guide you as you choose wall collections or an album. It’s a fun process from start to finish, and when we are done it’s a great feeling to deliver and see your prints on your walls.
Done with Design in Mind. Regular sessions give you the most flexibility and service, but require a higher investment. My clients typically spend between $1000-$2000 and come to me because it’s been years since they’ve had family portraits done and they want beautiful portraits for their walls.
Mini Sessions
A Small Sampling. A mini session is a great way to get to know me if you aren’t sure yet you want to make the investment in a full session. They are randomly announced so make sure you are signed up for my newsletter so you won’t miss one. You will choose the time, but the dates are set in advance. Mini sessions are done either in the studio or at a location pre-determined and the time is limited. You will not have opportunities for clothing changes, or a lot of individual shots, but I will do my best to give you variety in the limited time we have together.
Mid-Year Updates. Mini sessions are great if you’ve recently had family portraits done and just want an update or a great Christmas card shot. They are also perfect for sibling or cousin groups.
Cost Effective. Mini sessions are a smaller investment. Clients typically spend from $300-$800. They also have a reduced gallery to choose from, usually around 10 images.
I hope this helps you make a decision. Family portrait time is coming right up. I will have special offers for both my regular sessions and mini sessions in the next few months so be sure and read my newsletter and follow on Facebook to be the first to know what’s happening. Ready to book a full session? Email me today: mail@melissastover.com
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