Why Mini Sessions Might Not Be Worth the Hassle for Me (And Maybe You, Too)!


As a professional photographer in Northern Michigan, I’ve experienced the ups and downs of running a photography business. I’ve done it all—from sports photography to weddings and family portraits—and along the way, I’ve tried my hand at mini sessions. While they sound like a great idea on paper, I’ve come to realize they often bring more hassle than reward. For me, they just aren’t worth it—and if you’re a fellow photographer, you might feel the same.


Let me share my perspective on why mini sessions don’t work for me and the challenges they’ve brought to my business.


1. They Don’t Reflect the Value of My Work


I take pride in capturing authentic, meaningful moments for my clients. Whether it’s the joy of a wedding day or a family’s connection during golden hour, my photography is deeply personal to me. Mini sessions, however, often force me to rush through the creative process, leaving little time to connect with my clients or give them my absolute best.


The reduced price of mini sessions also doesn’t reflect the value of my time, talent, or experience. As someone who’s poured years into perfecting my craft, I know my work is worth more than what mini sessions typically charge. And once you factor in the time spent planning, shooting, and editing, the profit margins are razor-thin.


2. Time Constraints Steal the Joy


I thrive on building connections with my clients and helping them feel comfortable in front of the camera. It’s hard to do that in a 15-minute session. Kids need time to warm up, couples need time to relax, and families need time to settle into the moment.


Mini sessions often leave me stressed and frustrated because there’s no wiggle room for the unpredictable—whether it’s a toddler’s meltdown or a late arrival. I want every client to walk away with images they love, but the time constraints of mini sessions don’t always allow that.


3. No Ill Will Toward Hobby Photographers—We All Start Somewhere


Let me be clear: I have no ill will toward hobby photographers. Everyone starts somewhere, and I respect anyone who’s passionate about photography. I’ve been there myself!


That said, the rise of hobby photographers offering mini sessions at extremely low prices has made it challenging for professionals to compete in this space. Clients may not always understand the difference between a hobbyist and a professional who’s running a business. Hobby photographers can charge less because they aren’t relying on photography as their livelihood—but for me, this is my career.


I wish nothing but success for anyone starting out, but I’ve learned that I can’t price my work to match theirs. My time, skill, and dedication are worth more, and I’ve come to peace with that.


4. Mini Sessions Don’t Always Book (Despite the Effort)


There’s nothing worse than putting time and energy into planning a day of mini sessions, only to have half the slots go unbooked—or worse, filled with cancellations and no-shows. Mini sessions are appealing because they’re cheaper, but that same affordability can lead to a lack of commitment from clients.


For someone like me, who lives in a small Northern Michigan community, this can be especially frustrating. I pour my heart into every session, and it’s discouraging when that effort doesn’t pay off.


5. My Clients (And My Business) Deserve Better


I’ve learned that mini sessions don’t allow me to give my clients the full experience they deserve. I love taking the time to create beautiful, thoughtful images that families will treasure for years. That kind of work takes time—and I’m okay with charging more for it because I know the end result is worth it.


I want to attract clients who value my work and are willing to invest in a full session, where we have the freedom to create magic together. For me, it’s not about squeezing in as many clients as possible in a single day; it’s about giving my best to each family, couple, or individual who steps in front of my camera.


A Personal Reflection


If you’re a photographer considering mini sessions, I encourage you to ask yourself if they truly align with your goals and values. For me, they don’t—but that doesn’t mean they’re wrong for everyone. If you do decide to offer them, set boundaries, charge rates that reflect your worth, and ensure they’re working for you, not against you.


At the end of the day, photography is about connection, creativity, and storytelling. For me, those things take time, care, and intention—qualities I can’t deliver in a rushed 15-minute mini session. And that’s okay. My journey as a photographer has taught me to value my craft and trust that the right clients will, too.


To those starting out or trying to find their way in this industry, know that there’s room for all of us. Keep growing, keep learning, and know your worth—because that’s what I’m doing, too.