09/02/2025
Looking forward to a beautiful fall season! 🍂
Today I’m addressing the question, Should we do a full session or a petite session?
I hear it all the time, some version of “My family would never want to do a full session, they won’t last that long.”
And I get it, it seems like a long to time to sit and smile 😊 But the truth is, many times a full session is the better option for your family. Here are some reasons why :
• A full session sounds like a long time, but it goes by quickly. I keep the atmosphere light and happy and a little silly. We will keep shooting until we feel like we have great shots! For some families that is a little over an hour. Some it’s closer to 90 minutes.
• We aren’t rushed and we don’t force things in a full session. A petite session can feel rushed because we are trying to maximize our time. The slower pace of a full session feels more comfortable to most people, in particular neurodivergent folks or younger kids who might need breaks during the session. In a full session, we can take those breaks and make sure everyone is feeling good 😊
• Many families have kids (and adults!) who need a little bit of time to warm up to the camera. Often with petite sessions, that happens just as we have to end our session. Petite sessions are stacked with other clients before and after your session, and so the timing has to be strict.
• I find that when a parent thinks a specific kid won’t last for a full session, they’re often the one having a blast and enjoying themselves when things don’t feel so stressful and rushed! Finally, family pictures feel fun and easy!
• Don’t we all want an experience where we have time to breathe, time to relax and get comfortable with the situation, and feel like the images are going to be even better because everyone feels comfortable enough to give their real smiles and interact in natural ways?
You’ll make the right choice for your family, and I’m excited to work with you for a full session or a petite session this fall 😉
Have you had a full session that worked well for your family? Do you usually do a full session or a petite session? Why? I’d love to hear your experience!