Discover how a 20-minute fall mini session turned into 60 candid, joy-filled photos. Learn why short sessions create real connection and timeless memories.
You know those sessions where you go in hoping for 25 solid shots and somehow end up with 60 you just can’t part with?
Yeah. That was this one.
Meet Rachel, her husband Drew, their sweet little Lola, and Rachel’s parents, Paul and Sharon, who, by the way, came fully prepared to steal the show.
From the moment we started, I knew this was going to be fun. Everyone was dressed in soft, muted tones (my love language for natural light photography). These tones let the fall colors do their thing and make the skin tones buttery smooth. It’s the secret sauce for those timeless, mantle-worthy images you’ll love for years.
And then there’s Lola. Sweet, spunky, full-of-life Lola who completely turned on the personality halfway through the session and had us all cracking up. Those are the moments you can’t pose or plan. You just have to keep the camera ready and ride the wave of pure joy.
But let’s talk about Paul for a second because every family session has that one moment. I jokingly asked him and Sharon who’s been the most stubborn in their marriage all these years. Without missing a beat, Paul threw her under the bus. 😆 Cue laughter, side-eye, and the best candid smiles of the day.
That’s what I love about minis , they’re short enough to keep everyone fresh and long enough to capture real emotion. We stay in one location, move through easy prompts, and spend just enough time together for everyone to “thaw out” in front of the camera. No stress, no overthinking, no “what do I do with my hands?” energy. Just connection.
Here’s the truth:
The classic, mantle-worthy shots are why you come to the session.
But the real gold? That’s in the emotion, the in-between moments, the laughter, the little girl who leans in for one more kiss before you can even tell her to.
That’s what makes a mini session feel big.
Photographer Takeaway
Minis don’t have to feel rushed. Keep your clients moving, your tone light, and your prompts playful.
Ask questions that spark emotion (and laughter), and don’t chase perfection,chase connection.
Client Takeaway
A mini session is the perfect sweet spot: short, fun, and relaxed. It’s proof that you don’t need an hour to capture memories you’ll treasure forever.
Ready to Book Your Own?
I’ll be hosting a snow day mini and spring mini in 2026, if you’ve been waiting for that “just right” session that feels easy, natural, and fun… this is it.
👉 Contact me through my facebook page for booking details
Corrie LeeAnn Photography 