Mini sessions are a wonderful way to capture beautiful memories in a short time, but they aren’t always the best fit for every child. If your child has sensory sensitivities, high anxiety around strangers, or struggles to warm up to new people (whether diagnosed or not), a 20-minute mini session may not be the ideal choice.
Why Mini Sessions May Be Challenging
Mini sessions take place in a new location, which can be overwhelming—especially for children who experience sensory overload. Adjusting to the environment, feeling comfortable with me as the photographer, and then immediately engaging for photos in such a short timeframe can be extremely difficult. This can lead to stress for both the child and the parents, making it hard to get the best possible experience from the session.
A Better Alternative: A One-Hour Session
For children who may need extra time to feel at ease, a one-hour session allows for a slower, more accommodating approach. I have successfully photographed children on the spectrum and those with sensory challenges in short sessions, but only with proper preparation and adjustments. Communication is key! If I’m informed ahead of time, we can create a plan that best supports your child’s needs.
How We Can Adjust the Session for Your Child
• Does your child dislike loud noises? If sudden sounds are distressing, we’ll avoid busy locations and opt for a quieter setting, like a private park, open field, or an early morning session when fewer people are around.
• Are they afraid of closed spaces? If a studio setting feels overwhelming, an outdoor session may be a better fit where they have space to move freely and feel in control of their surroundings.
• Does your child need extra time to warm up? Instead of jumping straight into photos, we can spend time exploring the environment together, letting them get comfortable at their own pace. We can start with candid, natural shots rather than posed images right away.
• Do they have a comfort item? A favorite toy, stuffed animal, or blanket can be included in the session to provide reassurance. If they respond well to music, we can play a familiar song in the background to create a more calming atmosphere.
• Are transitions difficult for them? Instead of multiple outfit changes or switching locations quickly, we can keep the session simple and structured, minimizing disruptions.
Creating a Stress-Free Experience
Every child is different, and my goal is to provide a positive, low-pressure experience. If you think a mini session may be too overwhelming, let’s discuss a session structure that works best for your child. Together, we can create a plan that ensures your child feels comfortable, safe, and happy throughout the session. 💛
If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to help create a session experience that works for your family!
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