I get asked this question all the time—do you ever offer mini sessions? Christmas pop-ups? Santa photos? And the answer is… not really.

Every now and then—maybe once or twice a year—I’ll host a very limited offering, usually at a studio I know and love or outdoors at a quiet Christmas tree farm. But as a general rule? Mini sessions just aren’t the rhythm I work best in.

There are so many photographers in our area who offer minis often and do them really, really well. If that’s what you’re looking for, I’m always happy to send a few names your way.

But for me?

I don’t love the pace.
I don’t love the crowds.
And honestly—I don’t love the feeling that I have to make magic in 5 to 15 minutes while four other photographers are doing the same thing ten feet away.

I totally understand the appeal. Minis are usually lower cost, and for some families, 10 or 15 minutes feels like plenty. Not everyone wants (or needs!) a full hour to get a few great images. For those families, minis are a wonderful choice—and they’re everywhere in Gwinnett, Athens and Metro Atlanta. There are amazing venues and studios who specialize in hosting styled minis and I use them as well for full family sessions and milestones, as well as cake smash photos. 

But my approach is slower.
It’s child-led.
It’s built around space—emotional and physical—for connection to unfold naturally.

In a longer session, I’m not rushing to get the shot. I’m waiting for your child to come in close. I’m watching for quiet affection or real laughter. I’m leaving room for the unplanned—the snuggle break, the snack detour, the moment when the shy one suddenly starts to shine.

That kind of session just can’t be hurried. And the gallery that comes from it—full of small details and in-between moments—is something I’ve come to cherish deeply. And thankfully, it seems to attract the families who need and appreciate it most.

So, how do you know if a mini session is right for you?

Here are a few gentle questions to ask yourself:

Do your kids need time to warm up?
If your little ones are slow to settle in new environments—or you as the parent need a minute to get comfortable too—a full session might give you the breathing room you need.

What are you hoping to walk away with?
If you’re dreaming of one or two great shots for a holiday card, a mini might be perfect. But if you want a fuller gallery, meaningful candids and photos that reflect your family’s personality in a deeper way, a longer session offers more space for that storytelling.

What kind of experience are you looking for?
Do you want quick and efficient? Or do you want a slower pace, time to play and snuggle and a session that feels like a little exhale from daily life?

What’s your comfort level with cost?
I never want pricing to feel like a mystery or an obstacle. Compared to the level of time, care and intentionality I pour into each session, my pricing is thoughtful, transparent and as accessible as I can make it. But if budget is your top priority, a mini may be a better fit—and that’s okay.

For me, the longer sessions are where I feel most at home. They allow me to serve families with the presence and patience I believe photography deserves. It’s where I do my best work—and it’s what allows your family to be seen, not rushed.

If you’re not sure what kind of session you need, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to talk through what might be the best fit for your family—whether that’s with me or someone else I trust. An if you’d like more information about my family sessions, you can find that HERE.