Difference between a Lifestyle Session and a Mini session

If you’ve poked around on my website, you’ll see that I offer both Lifestyle sessions and Mini sessions but you might be wondering what the difference is and which one is right for you. Let’s see if we can break it down for you:

There is no right or wrong answer, only what is right for you and your crew for the specific situation you’re looking for.

Time is one of the biggest factors. Obviously, a mini session is a “mini” version of my other sessions. They are 20 minutes long whereas a lifestyle sessions is usually an hour. Mini sessions are fast and furious but, don’t worry, we can still get a great compliment of photos for you to choose from. Lifestyle sessions are longer with more time to move around, change locations, and take breaks as needed.

Variety of photos is also a big difference. Because a mini sessions is quick, we focus on some key portraits and a few key positions. I always try to get 2-3 poses with everyone looking and a few that are more candid and interactive. I always send more than the package amount for these and allow you to pick the ones you want because I’ve learned that what you love and what I love aren’t always the same…and that’s okay! Lifestyle sessions offer a much wider variety and more room for creativity. We will still get a few of those posed, looking at the camera photos but, beyond that, the sky is the limit as far as creativity and collaboration are concerned.

Now let’s talk flexibility of time and location. Mini sessions are booked on specific dates and at locations I choose. They are typically schedule so that sessions are booked back to back, meaning there will be someone right before you and right after you. For lifestyle sessions, we can choose the date and location that works for all involved. If there’s a location you love, it’s an option. If you have no idea but have a vibe in mind, I can help! Some people love that great outdoor feeling, some love a more urban vibe and some love their home sweet home; together we can decide what will work best to accomplish the goals you have for the session.

Some people love the mini sessions and will book multiple per year. If you’re looking for an updated family portrait, for the photo for you holiday card or for a small session to fit in a specific budget, a mini session might just be the perfect fit.

Some people love the slower, more relaxed feel of the lifestyle session and the freedom they bring to move around and explore together. If you’re looking for a session that captures your family story or a specific event in a creative and professional way in a location that feels like you, then I would recommend a lifestyle session.

Let’s chat a little more about who each session type serves best:

Mini Sessions : immediate family sessions, maternity sessions, couple sessions, individual headshots, engagements, grads. Not suitable for extended family.

Lifestyle sessions: immediate family sessions, maternity sessions, newborn sessions, couple sessions, engagements, graduations, creative themed sessions.

One question I get asked a lot is “Which is better for kids?” and my honest answer is that will depend on your family. If your kids have short attention spans but are good with strangers and would warm up to me quickly, go with the mini session. If your kids take a little longer to warm up but would love to play and explore for a session, go with the lifestyle session. Either way, we will play and do our best to meet them in the season they’re at. You know your kids best.

Regardless of the session you choose, our goal is always to have fun together and to find a way to tell your story in a way that is uniquely you.

As always, please reach out if you have specific questions about anything above or about the sessions I offer.  

I hope you found this helpful!