You Don’t Have to Wait for Fall
Here’s something I hear more than almost anything else from families this time of year:
“We’re going to wait until fall for mini sessions.”
And I get it. Fall feels like the “right” time for family photos.
But here’s what I wish more families knew:
Your kids are not the same kids they’ll be in October.
If you’ve been holding off on family photos because of budget—or because you’re waiting for the “perfect” time—this is for you.
The Budget Question I Love Getting
Some families come to me a little hesitant, upfront about needing to keep costs down.
And honestly? Those sessions are some of my favorites.
I’ve worked with families who almost didn’t book—who weren’t sure if professional photography was in the budget right now.
Then they showed up, the kids had a blast, the whole thing felt easier than they expected—and afterward, they actually printed some of the images and put them up in their home.
That’s the goal. Every time.
Budget-conscious doesn’t mean settling. It just means choosing the kind of session that fits your life right now.
What’s Actually Possible (and Where the Trade-Offs Are)
Mini sessions are a genuinely great option.
They give you access to an experienced photographer at a lower investment.
The trade-off is time, and what time allows.
- Sessions move quickly and are a bit more structured
- There’s less room to slow down or follow every moment
- Locations are chosen in advance
That’s not a downside; it’s just helpful to know so you can enjoy it for what it is.
If you want more time and flexibility, full sessions (especially in-home) allow for that deeper, slower experience.
But if you’re looking for something simpler right now, mini sessions are a smart, meaningful choice.
The Mistake I See Every Spring
Almost every spring, I have the same conversation.
Families reach out… and then decide to wait until fall.
And I understand why.
But here’s the reality:
Your kids right now—this exact stage—will not exist in the same way six months from now.
Spring sessions have their own beauty—soft light, open space, everything starting to come back to life.
But more importantly, they happen now.
Don’t let waiting for the “perfect” backdrop be the reason you miss it.
Spring Photo Sessions (Limited Availability)
To make this easier, I’ve opened a small number of spring mini sessions this year.
These are short, simple outdoor sessions designed to fit into real life.
Details:
- $274 with a $99 retainer to reserve (balance of $175 due on session date)
- 20-minute session
- 5 digital images (with more available to purchase)
Dates + Locations:
- Friday, April 17 — Thompson Park @ 5:30, 6, 6:30 p.m.
- Friday, May 15 — Thompson Park @ 6, 6:30, 7 p.m.
- Sunday, May 17 – Northern Water’s gardens @ 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10 a.m.
Why This Works
These are designed to remove the biggest barrier I see:
Not having the time or energy to plan photos.
Mini sessions are short.
Already scheduled.
You don’t have to figure everything out—you just pick a time and show up.
Ready to Book
There are only a handful of spots across these dates, and once they’re filled, I won’t be adding more this spring.
If one of these times works for your family, you can reserve it here:
It takes about a minute, and a $99 retainer holds your spot. (Balance of $174 due on session date.)
In Closing
The families I’ve worked with who actually printed their photos—who see them every day—never say they wish they’d waited for better leaves.
They’re just glad they did it.
Not ready to book but want to stay in the loop? You can join the mini session list here.
Not sure if a mini session is the right fit?
Mini sessions are a great option if you’re looking for something quick and simple. If you’d prefer more time, flexibility, or a session at home, these may help:
How to Prepare for In-Home Family Photo Session
Why Your Living Room is the Perfect Photography Studio
What to Expect During an In-Home Family Newborn Photography Session
