Oahu Fall Mini Sessions | Should I Book a Mini?
Occasionally, I’ll get an inquiry where the potential client is looking specifically for mini sessions.
First, I’ll be upfront and say that unfortunately I don’t offer individual mini sessions. I only take on a limited number of sessions each week so I can give every family the attention and care they deserve. Because of that, I’m not able to reserve a whole time slot for just one mini session. Instead, I offer set mini session dates in the fall, where several families can participate on the same day.
But before jumping to sign up for a mini, everyone should make sure their expectations are aligned with what a mini can and can’t do. Check out the questions below to see if a mini photo session is right for your family and what you’re looking for.
Mini sessions are short, sweet, and perfect for families who just want a quick update without the time or expense of a full session.
What is a Mini Photo Session?
A mini session in Oahu is a 15-minute photo shoot at a set time and location. You’ll get professional-quality images in a shorter timeframe, making it a great option for busy Hawaii families. Minis are perfect if you need a quick update or a handful of portraits, without committing to a full session.
From my perspective, minis aren’t a cure-all. They have their limitations, but are a wonderful way to get a few updated photos quickly and stress-free. When I’ve done them myself, I loved how easy they felt and how we still ended up with a collection of favorites ready to print and share.
Mini Sessions are Great For:
1. Small Families (2 — 5 People)
With fewer people, we can move quickly, capture the must-have group shots, and even squeeze in a few individual portraits.
2. Families with Older Kids
Older kids usually don’t need much warm-up time, so we can jump straight into the photos and still get a nice variety of images.
3. Families with Kids Who Listen Well
If your kids are good at following directions and can handle quick transitions, a mini session is ideal! Think: “Stand here, smile, done!”
4. When You Only Want a Few Mostly Posed Images
Maybe you just need a few family portraits for holiday cards or a wall update. If you’re not looking for a full gallery of candids, mini sessions offer a perfect way to get the posed shots you need without the extra fuss.
5. Couples or Maternity Sessions
Mini sessions work really well for smaller, simpler shoots like a quick couple’s portrait or maternity photos.
6. Returning Clients
If we’ve worked together before, your family knows the flow of a mini session, so there’s no need for much warm-up time. We can get straight into it and make the most of our time together for your Oahu mini session.
Mini Sessions are Not Great For:
1. Large or Extended Families
Once we start juggling big groups, the 15 minutes can fly by too quickly and we won’t have time to get all the combos your group will want. For large families, a full session will give us more time to get all the combos (Think: full group, each individual family, cousins together, cousins with grandparents…etc). If you’re absolutely set on a mini, groups of 5-10 will need to book two mini sessions back-to-back.
2. Families with Shy Kids
If your child needs some time to warm up to the camera, a mini session may not give them enough space to relax.
3. Toddlers or Very Young Children
Toddlers have their own agenda, and mini sessions move fast. A full session can be better for capturing both the posed and “I do what I want!” 😉 candid moments with little ones.
4. Families Who Love Candid, Playful Shots
The best candid moments happen when everyone relaxes and forgets about the camera. That takes time, which minis don’t allow.
5. Newborn Sessions
Babies need plenty of breaks for feeding, snuggling, and soothing—things that don’t fit into a quick, rushed timeline. For newborns, a completely different session flow is needed and does not fit with a mini session format.
The Bottom Line:
Mini sessions are perfect if you’re looking for something short, simple, and sweet. They’re great for small families in Oahu, returning clients, and anyone looking for just a handful of posed images.
If you have big families, little ones who need time to warm up, or want lots of candid in-the-moment shots, a full session will give you the best experience. Either way, you’ll leave with beautiful photos to cherish, whether for your walls or holiday cards.
FAQ: Should I Book a Mini Session?
1. How long do mini sessions last?
Mini sessions are usually 15 minutes at a predetermined location, date, and time.
2. How many people can I bring to a mini session?
Mini sessions are best for small families (2–5 people). Larger groups are better suited for a full session.
3. Can I choose the location for my mini session?
Unfortunately, no. In order to offer this great value to clients, minis are stacked back-to-back at set locations and times. If you have an idea for a minis location, though, please let me know! I’m happy to consider it for the future.
4. Will I get a lot of photos from a mini session?
You’ll receive a gallery of about 25 edited images, from which you can choose your favorite 10 or upgrade to the full gallery.
5. When is the best time to book a mini session?
I usually offer mini sessions in the fall. Please join the VIP mailing list to be the first to hear about mini session signups. And, of course, feel free to submit an inquiry here to see if any are available or to get more info on a full session.
Summary
Should you book a mini session? If you're looking for something quick, fun, and easy, yes! Mini sessions are perfect for Oahu families, couples, maternity photos, or returning clients. For more relaxed sessions with playful candids and lots of time, consider a full session instead. Either way, you’ll end up with a collection of favorites ready to print and share.
About Me
Aloha! I’m Steph. I love capturing life’s sweet moments with warmth, joy, and aloha vibes. Mini or full session, my goal is to make the experience fun, relaxed, and stress-free for your family. Ready to book your Oahu mini session? Let’s chat!