You might think a 15-minute mini session only leaves room for the “everyone look and smile” photo. But ohhhh mama—there’s magic packed in every second.

Mini sessions are fast-paced, yes. But they’re also full of real-life wonder, tiny surprises, and the kind of in-between moments that end up meaning so much more than you expect.

Here are five of the most unexpectedly sweet moments that clients say end up becoming their favorite photos from a mini session:

1. That First-Walk Giggle

You’re just getting started, maybe still adjusting hair and fixing collars. I prompt you to walk together—and suddenly your toddler takes off, your partner makes a goofy face, and your kids burst out laughing.That first unscripted giggle walk? It’s golden.

📸 It says: “This is us. Imperfect, hilarious, and totally in sync.”

2. The Sneaky Squeeze

Sometimes, while we’re getting a “just the kids” photo, I’ll quietly tell one child to squeeze the other. The result? A spontaneous bear hug or a tiny hand reaching out with so much love it could break you in half (in the best way).

📸 It says: “They actually do love each other. And now I have proof.”

3. The Parent-Only Moment

If time allows, I sneak in a few shots of just the grownups—yes, you and your partner. And even though you’re not sure what to do with your hands, by the end you're laughing at an inside joke and holding hands like it’s 2009.

📸 It says: “We’re still us.”

4. The Unplanned Close-Up

Maybe a breeze catches your child’s hair. Maybe your little one looks up at you at just the right second. These close-up, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it shots have big heirloom energy. They're the ones you frame because they feel like your child—not just what they look like.

📸 It says: “I see you. I remember you like this.”

5. The Cheek Sandwich

At the very end of the session, I usually ask for one last favor: “Okay—everybody smoosh your cheeks together!” It’s chaotic. It’s cozy. And it works every time.

Suddenly, everyone’s laughing and leaning in, and you get this gorgeous group shot where everyone looks completely connected—literally and emotionally.

📸 It says: “We’re a unit. A lovable, slightly-squished, completely joyful unit.”

So… do mini sessions give you ‘enough’?

I see you wondering that. I promise: these short sessions can hold the essence of your family. The belly laughs, the quiet hand-holding, the soft glances and wild joy—it's all in there.

Because mini doesn't mean less.

It just means focused, intentional, beautiful time—crafted to fit into your busy life.

✨ Want to make one of these moments yours?

Check current mini session availability here

And if you’ve already booked—save this post so you know what to look forward to. 💛