Mini Session Prep - Sarah Photo Video

How to Prepare for Your Fall Family Mini Session
(+ FAQ below)

Mini sessions are quick, fun, and full of personality — and a little preparation goes a long way in helping everything run smoothly! Below are a few tips to help you make the most of your 15-minute session.

1. Arrive Early

Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before your session time to allow for parking, getting everyone out of the car, last-minute touch-ups, and walking to the photo location. Sessions are booked back-to-back, so late arrivals will shorten your shooting time.

2. Plan Outfits Ahead of Time

Choose complementary colors and layers that reflect your family’s style and the season.

Avoid large logos or busy patterns that can distract from your faces.

3. Keep It Simple for Kids

If you have little ones, make sure they’re fed, rested, and comfortable before arriving.

Bring a favorite small toy, snack, or treat for encouragement (nothing messy!).
The best photos often come from natural interactions — tickles, hugs, and giggles are encouraged!

4. Relax and Have Fun

Mini sessions move quickly — that’s part of the magic!

Don’t stress about perfect poses or smiles. I’ll guide you through flattering setups and capture the candid moments in between that show your family’s true connection.

5. Bring the Essentials

A few things that might be helpful to have on hand:

Hairbrush or comb
Baby wipes or tissues
Small mirror or lip gloss
A backup outfit for little ones (just in case)
Water, especially for warm days

6. Trust the Process

The best moments happen naturally when you focus on each other instead of the camera. I’ll handle the rest — lighting, direction, and capturing your family at its best.

Within a short time after your session, you’ll receive your edited online gallery full of images that celebrate your family as you are right now.

FAQ:

Weather

If it rains, we obviously won’t be able to take pictures. I will closely monitor the weather forecast in the days leading up to the session, and if we need to cance or reschedule, I will try to make the call no later than the day before the session.

If we have to postpone the session due to weather, I will work with you to reschedule.

If we have to cancel due to weather and are unable to reschedule, I will refund 50% of your session fee.

Any non-refunded balance can be used toward another session with me within 1 year of the originally scheduled session.

Rescheduling and Cancellations

If you need to reschedule your session, please contact me and I will do my best to accommodate another date.

If you need to cancel your session, you can do so before 48 hours prior to the session date/time and receive a 50% refund.

If you cancel within 48 hours, you will not receive any refund.