Which type of fall photo session is right for my family?

You know you want photos to capture your precious babies in this ever-fleeting season, but maybe you’ve found yourself asking “which type of fall photo session is right for my family?”

I thought it may be helpful to share some details about fall mini sessions vs full outdoor sessions vs at home sessions so that you get exactly what you’re hoping for this fall. I’m also always happy to schedule a quick coffee chat, hear more of what you’re looking for, and share my personal opinion specifically for you and your family.

The Mini Session

Perfect if you’re really just wanting “the Christmas card” shot. You don’t have to just use it for a Christmas card, obviously, but that’s what we call it in the biz.

If you really just want an updated family photo not taken on an iPhone by a random passerby, a mini session is for you. Minis are 10-20 minute sessions (usually depending on location for me) and are really meant to be just a few good photos of the whole family.

Because I have over 10 years of experience & 4 kids of my own that I wrangle for photos on the daily, I can often make more than that happen in a mini session.

If you know me well & have been with me for years (like the beautiful family pictured here), we can almost make a full session happen in 20 minutes. BUT, that is because you, your spouse and most importantly your kids are also comfortable with me.

If your kids are filling me in on their past year, high-fiving about new birthdays & school updates, and generally excited to see me again, this super quick session can happen with ease.

If you have really young kids, kids who take awhile to warm up, or you’ve never met me before, a longer session is a better fit for you IF you want more than just the Christmas card photo.

The Outdoor Family Session

If your family falls into the “really young kids, kids who take awhile to warm up, etc” category listed above, and you’re hoping for more than just the Christmas card photo, this is the session for you. Having a full 60 minutes gives us time to get to know each other, play around, have a (clean-ish) snack if needed, cuddle, tickle, and have a lot of fun.

We’ll grab candid & guided shots in several different areas at our location, and can also get a mix of different groupings and solo shots. Those additional shots are really hard to do if you’re new to mini sessions, but we can always make them happen in a full session.

Also, if you’re thinking that your kids or partner will only “last” 20 minutes, I’d kindly ask you to think again! It may seem counter-intuitive but everyone tends to loosen up, have more fun, and bust out those real smiles the longer the session goes on. Many times my absolute favorite images come from the last 20 minutes of the session.

The timing of the session is often what trips people up when wondering “which type of fall photo session is right for my family?” Instead of thinking shorter is better, think of what you’re investing in this session & what you hope to get out of it.

You’re buying outfits, making sure everyone is dressed and somewhat happy, driving to the session, spending time playing together, and paying me to make sure we capture the best parts of this season of life. After the session these photos will mean the world to you, but honestly they’ll mean even more as time goes on.

The At-Home Family Session

My personal favorite of allllll the sessions forever and ever.

Honestly because it includes everything in the other two sessions + we truly capture all of the little tiny details and bits and pieces of this season of life that you want to viscerally remember – already, but even more so in years to come.

I don’t think I’ve ever done an at home session that didn’t include at least some time outside (front yard, back yard, swing set, trampoline, front porch, scooters in the driveway, bubbles & chalk…) and I will always still get “the Christmas card” shot in multiple locations both outside & in. Check, check.

But then. Then we get to dance around the kitchen. Pile up all the favorite stuffed animals for their own little photo shoot. Bake cookies with flour going everywhere. Play a favorite game. Tickle on the couch or bed or floor near the good light. Cuddle up to read books.

If you’re one of the lucky few holiday at homes, we can decorate the Christmas tree, do the special Christmas puzzles, throw on Christmas jams and cuddle up with The Night Before Christmas, throw holiday sprinkles everywhere – truly whatever part of this season you want to remember now and for years and years to come.

If you’ve ever wondered if an at home session is right for you, I promise you will not be disappointed. Schedule a call and let’s chat about your absolute favorite things about motherhood and your kids right now, and we’ll plan our session around those details in the place where you all feel the most yourselves.

Whichever session you choose, I can’t wait to see & photograph your beautiful family this fall!

If you’re still wondering “which type of fall photo session is right for my family?”, schedule a coffee chat & I’d love to help!

Email me to schedule your at home or full session.

Need help with what to wear for fall photos? I’ve got you!