It is that time of year – school is about to start, we are all ready to get back into a routine, life gets busy, and all of a sudden we’re thinking about the holidays. For Nikki Caviness Photography, this is the only time all year I offer family mini sessions. These are quick 20 minute sessions that are scheduled back-to-back in predetermined locations. You pick your location and available time slot, and you get a set of images to use for holiday gifts for grandparents, to update family pictures around your home, and to send out the coveted yearly holiday card!

But because Fall Mini Sessions are so short (only 20 minutes!) to photograph your family, I have a few tips I want to share to make sure you are fully prepared for your session.

1. Book EARLY – I know. We live in Texas and its hot as the dickens and the last thing we are thinking about is holiday cards. But, fall gets busy and EVERYONE wants to book a mini session. Availability is limited. If you want to book a mini session with your photographer, get on their calendar early.
2. Pick out your clothes ahead of time – put some thought into your outfits. I tend to harp on the fact that your clothing selections can make or break your photos, so planning early is key. Consider where your session is being held (outdoor sessions have a different vibe than an indoor session.) This year I am offering full family styling as an add-on to my minis. So if you don’t want to stress over what to wear, I will choose items for you to buy, or at the very least, to inspire your outfits. Also, set out your items the night before, including shoes and accessories, so you aren’t rushing around trying to find your daughter’s bow 10 minutes before your session time.
3. Be early – are you sensing a theme here? Arrive to your session early. Fall mini sessions are limited and are booked back to back. If you are late to your session, it will cut into your shooting time. Tell your husband that your session is 10 minutes earlier than it actually is so you’ll be on time. 😉
4. Keep it fun for your kiddos! – I often hear that people prefer a 20 minute session versus my normal hour to an hour and a half session because their “kids won’t last longer than 20 minutes.” I’m going to let you in on a photographer secret – shooting kids for a longer amount of time is WAY easier than shooting them for 20 minutes. If they are shy, they don’t have time to warm up. If they are grumpy, they don’t have time to calm down. So if you as parents keep things light and fun with your kids BEFORE the session, it will make things go a lot smoother. Play their favorite music or game in the car on the way to the session. Turn it into a fun family evening out so they have something to look forward to – session, dinner, family ice cream date.

These are just a few tips to help you prepare for your session. Interested in my fall mini session offerings? My newsletter subscribers get first dibs, so sign up here so you don’t miss out!