mini sessions

Mini Sessions // Everything you need to know about “Mini Sessions” and how to book!

Q: Do you offer mini sessions?

A: Yes, usually during the fall season. Want to be notified when I post about holiday mini sessions next year? All you have to do is enter your email address on my website and you’ll get an email sent straight to your inbox when mini session dates go live. These sessions go fast! And since I usually only offer these once a year, I would encourage you to sign up to get the location + time slot of your choice.

Q: What is a mini session?

A: Mini sessions are basically that: “mini.” They are 20 minutes compared to the full hour session. They’re also referred to as “fall mini sessions” or “holiday mini sessions” as many people use the photos for their holiday cards. Private Mini sessions are 30 minutes.

Q: When do you typically do mini sessions?

A: During the fall season from October – early December. Exact dates will vary yearly. I have not done spring or summer sessions due to the client base I have during that time of year, but I am open to it if there is enough interest!

Q: What can I use the mini sessions for? What type of session?

A: Mini sessions can be used for family portraits, head shots, seniors, maternity, pregnancy announcement, couples portraiture (anniversaries, engagement), solo/individual lifestyle photos or a just because session, etc. If you’re unsure if the type of session qualifies for a mini session, email me and we can discuss. 

Q: What’s included in a mini session?

A: Mini sessions include 20 minutes of coverage, 1 photographer (Kambria), 1 outfit only (no outfit changes), 30+ edited (color corrected) high resolution images, 2 week delivery via digital download, online gallery for downloading and ordering prints or to share with friends and family. I also send a special code every year for a discount on prints if you order from my gallery!

Q: What’s the difference between a mini session and a full session? How do I know which is right for me?

A: Mini sessions are only 20 minutes and can sometimes feel a bit “rushed.” However, it’s great if you have little ones who can’t sit still for very long. Or perhaps want updated photos but you have a partner that is camera shy or doesn’t like taking photos usually. By the time we start the session, we’ll already be finished, ha! It will be quick, easy and hopefully painless. 

A regular/full session can be 1-2 hours depending on the size of the group and location. For full sessions, you’ll get more candids and groupings of the whole family. More of your kids playing, searching for shells and crabs at the tide pools, running around, and just being kids. You also get to choose the location (1-2 depending) and 1 possible outfit change. I’ll personally help you brainstorm for your shoot. You can now book full sessions and private minis (30 minute session).  So which session should you pick? It all depends on what you’re looking for. Click here to read more about Portrait / Engagement Sessions for some tips for the day of.

Q: What type of shots/images will I get?

A: You’ll get tons! I tend to overshoot. Haha. But you’ll get a mixture of posed (smiling into the camera) and candid photos. Plus, a variety of horizontal and vertical images – I like to mix it up! We’ll also have a little bit of time at the end for some creative and detail shots as well. 

You’ll for sure get the following for family:

1 Parents with all kids together

2 Individual shots of the kids and parents if needed

3 Kids together

6 Parents together

***Please keep in mind that this is only a 20-25 min session. While I always strive to do my best and give you the photos you want, we will be limited on time. If you’re wanting more coverage, more candids, more groupings and especially a location that’s tailored to you (and your family), I would recommend booking a full session. Please see next question below regarding a full session vs. a mini session.***

Q: What’s the turnaround time? When will I get my photos?

A: Session galleries are completed within 2 weeks. If you’re planning on getting your holiday cards ordered and mailed out by a certain time, please plan accordingly. 

Q: How many people can I bring?

A: Session fee for up to family of 6 people max. If you would like to bring more people, you can book 2 sessions back to back or a private session. 

Q: What’s the price for a mini session?

A: Currently, mini sessions are $350. Private minis are $450. I do not give discounts on these sessions.

Q: What time of day do you shoot mini sessions?

A: in the evening 1-2 hours before sunset for that perfect golden hour light or in some cases 9-11 am in the morning

Q: What is your photography style?

A: Modern, organic and photojournalistic. I love capturing the in between moments and especially love it when I can get your personality to shine through the lens.

Q: Am I allowed to bring a pet(s)?

A: Yes, of course! They are family after all.  As long as the location allows, I’d love to play with the fur babies too! Please let me know at the time of booking.

Q: What’s the process for booking a mini session?

A: You can book by my booking page that is sent out via email.  You’ll be able to choose the designated location, date and time slot I have chosen in advance. Your session must be paid in full in order to reserve your spot. I will follow up a week before your session with exact place to meet. Session fee is non-refundable.

Q: What if I need to reschedule? What if there’s chance of rain on the day of?

A: In case you need to reschedule due to emergency, you can swap out your session time for a future date/location that is available in the same calendar year. I try to keep mini sessions even if there is a small chance of drizzle. But if we get a storm, I will reschedule!

Q: What type of locations do you typically choose? How many locations? Are you open to any suggestions?

A: I make sure to pick out a variety of location types: urban, modern, greenery, outdoor, nature, etc. In the past, I’ve hosted mini sessions at the beach,  at your local parks or even just a random cool area that I find that would look great in photos. I go and scout out the locations beforehand and try to switch it up every year by adding a variety of unique locations that are easy to get to and have ample parking spaces. I also try to avoid crowds where I can but sometimes, it can be difficult for weekend dates (especially a Saturday).

Since I have clients all throughout SoCal, I try to pick a handful of spots that will be within a 15-30 min drive for the clients that live in the area. I do my best to try and accommodate everyone by switching up the locations every year. If you have any specific locations in mind for future mini sessions or want me to come to your city/town, I would love to hear from you. And most definitely, I am open to suggestions for future locations. If you know of any cool spots or have access to some unique spaces, please shoot me an email! 

Q: Have more questions?

A: Please get in touch: photo@kambriafischer.com. I look forward to hearing from you!