You've just booked your session with Sarahi Hadden Photography, and you're super excited (as am I). But you're probably wondering: "what's next?" This guide will help walk you through the steps you need to prepare your mini session with yours truly!

WHAT IS A MINI SESSION

If you’ve never done a mini session, it’s exactly what it sounds like: a miniature version of a normal full portrait session. They are quick moving sessions scheduled back to back, at one central location. These sessions usually last from 20-25 minutes in length, with a much smaller delivery of images ( at least 30 digital images) . If you are late, that cuts into the time of your session. If you are 10 minutes late for your 25 minute session, your session will only be 15 minutes.

And mini sessions aren’t just for families. They are great for couples, individuals, pets, anyone!

WHAT TO EXPECT

My goal is to make this a fun, relaxing experience. The tips below will allow you to have the best possible session. Remember, no single session is perfect, and it does not have to be! I will guide you into poses and areas with beautiful lighting. Your job is to love on your family and just have fun!

I will only ask for your kids to look at me 3-4 times (once for the fast “traditional” shot, and once for an individual portrait"). The rest of the time I will suggest fun things (like go attack mom and dad, dance together, play, etc).

  Now that you’re all booked, here are some tips to prepare for your mini session and make it as easy and fun as possible. 

 

TIPS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR MINI SESSION

  •  Arrive at least 10 minutes early for your scheduled time. Take out the worry of rushing by planning ahead, and your children will feel less rushed, too!

  • Bribery is not always necessary to get your child to cooperate, although a little incentive doesn’t hurt! Promise them that they are going to have a great time (I’m a fun photographer!) and getting their pictures taken will be a blast. An incentive of a treat or fun event after their session may help, but they don’t need to “perform” for me…it is my job to make this fun for everyone!

  • Some babies and children may be more comfortable without a parent watching. Feel free to step out of their view and watch from a distance (this also gets them to look at the camera and not off to the side!). 

  • Get a good nights sleep and fill your bellies. Easier said than done these days, I know, but getting a couple of decent nights of sleep leading up to the session will do wonders – especially for the kids. Also, make sure kids (and Dads) aren’t hungry as they arrive. Snacks are always welcome! :) 

WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR

I've pinned a couple ideas for inspiration for colors and patterns that look great HERE - Pinterest

  • Dress for the weather. Wear coordinating clothes for the session, but don’t be overly “matchy.” Avoid plaid patterns of different colors, too many busy patterns, and logos. We recommend that you start with mom’s outfit, then coordinate the rest of the family.

  • Neutrals also look beautiful, too.

  • Most importantly – dress in something you feel comfortable and confident in. It will show in the photos.

  • Make sure your clothes fit properly and don’t bunch oddly or ride up when you are crouching, sitting, etc. Make sure clothes are not too baggy or falling off shoulders or waists and that undergarments are not showing. (Unless that’s the look you’re going for.)

  • Avoid neon colors that may leave a color cast on faces and skin.

  • Shoes! Make sure they are clean, scuff-free and comfortable. Avoid flip flops and gym/running shoes

  • Dress kids in clothes they are comfortable in and you don’t mind if they get a little dirty. There is a lot of running, playing, sitting, etc. during our sessions and we want the kids to have a great time!

Please don't hesitate with any questions on wardrobe ideas. For younger girls wearing dresses, I highly recommend a pair of shorts or tights on underneath her dress as we do plenty of playing, twirling, dancing, and hanging upside down during sessions!

Approximately 10-14 days after the event your gallery will be available. You will be emailed with a gallery filled with images!

I’m so looking forward to seeing you! I hope this information will help you to prepare for your upcoming mini session and as always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have!