Mini Sessions vs. Full Sessions: Which is Right for Your Family?
As a Ponte Vedra and Jacksonville family photographer, one of the questions I hear most often is: “What’s the difference between a mini session and a full session?” At first glance, it may seem like the only difference is time, but there’s actually much more to it.
Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which type of session makes the most sense for your family portraits in Ponte Vedra, Jacksonville, Nocatee, or St. Augustine.
What is a Mini Session?
A mini session is a shorter, more structured photo session, usually 15–20 minutes. These sessions are typically offered on select dates, at one location, and with limited availability.
Best for:
Quick holiday card photos
Milestones (like birthdays, communions, or anniversaries)
Families who just want a handful of updated images
Keep in mind: Mini sessions move fast. With such a short timeframe, there isn’t much room for breaks, shy little ones warming up, or a lot of variety in poses and backgrounds.
What is a Full Session?
A full family session is a custom experience, lasting up to 60 minutes, at a location meaningful to your family—like a Ponte Vedra beach, a St. Augustine park, or even your own home in Nocatee.
Best for:
Families who want a relaxed experience with time to play, snuggle, and explore
Parents who want a full gallery (not just a few images)
Capturing deeper connections and natural moments without feeling rushed
A storytelling gallery of images
Want a more personal experience
What you get with a full session:
Styling support + access to my client closet
Location options tailored to your family’s vibe
A gallery of 80+ images that tell the full story of your family in this season of life
The Biggest Difference: Experience
Mini sessions are about efficiency. They’re perfect if you just want a quick refresh of family photos. But full sessions are about the experience.
With more time, kids can warm up, personalities shine through, and we can create those in-between moments. I have time to capture the laughter, the quiet snuggles, the messy hair blowing in the breeze and these are the things that make your family photos feel like you.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want a few photos for holiday cards or a milestone, a mini session is a great option.
If you want images that truly capture your family’s connection, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the process, a full session is the best fit.
Ready to Book?
I offer seasonal Nocatee mini sessions and holiday mini sessions in Ponte Vedra, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine. My full sessions are available year-round for families who want a more personalized experience.
Whether you book a seasonal mini session or a custom full family session in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, or Ponte Vedra, the goal is the same: creating beautiful, meaningful images of the people you love most.
Ready to start planning your family photos? Contact me here and we’ll find the perfect session for you.