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Why Mini Sessions Are Perfect for Busy Ann Arbor Families!

A young toddler girl sits between a large tree and a small concrete playhouse, smiling off camera with twinkle lights around

Let’s be real for a minute… life with kids is busy. From school drop-offs to playdates, keeping everyone safe and fed to making sure all appointments are up to date. AND trying to squeeze in some “me” time (does that even exist?), it can feel like you’re always racing against the clock. That’s where mini sessions come in! As a lifestyle family photographer here in Ann Arbor, I love offering mini sessions because they’re designed with busy families in mind.

A family with three children sit together smiling and laughing at the camera in a greenhouse decorated for Christmas

So, here are a few reasons why mini sessions might just be your new best friend.

1. They are Short and Sweet!

You know that saying, “Good things come in small packages”? Well, that’s exactly what mini sessions are all about! They usually last just 10-15 minutes, which is perfect for families who have, let’s say, less than patient little ones. There’s no need to worry about keeping the kids entertained for hours on end. In just a quick 10 minutes, I can coax out those genuine, joyful moments. Then everyone can get back to their day. Easy peasy!

family of four walks towards camera holding hands at christmas tree farm in dexter michigan

2. Budget-Friendly Without Sacrificing Quality

Photography is an investment, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune to get beautiful family photos every time you book. Mini sessions are a fantastic way to get professional, high-quality images at a fraction of the price of a full session. So whether you want to celebrate a milestone, capture some cute fall vibes during the best time of year in Michigan (seriously, the best), or just update your annual family photos, mini sessions give you the best of both worlds – amazing photos and happy wallets.

3. Great for Wiggly Kids (And Parents!)

Let’s face it, getting kids to sit still for an extended period of time? It’s like asking them to sit through a two-hour documentary on ancient Roman history. But with mini sessions, you get to focus on quick, fun (and sometimes silly) moments, so there’s no pressure to “pose” for the camera. I’ll guide you through the session, capturing those candid, in-between moments. The laughter, the tickles, the hand-holding, all the things that make your family your family. And in RECORD TIME! No seriously, I’m really fast.

Young girl snuggles in dad's arms and smiles in a greenhouse decorated for Christmas

4. Seasonal Fun!

Who doesn’t love a good theme? Mini sessions are often offered around holidays or special seasons, giving you a chance to get creative. Picture your family frolicking in Ann Arbor’s gorgeous fall colors or in a cozy, wintry holiday setting (ahem, Fern & Pine in Dexter!). Also, *hint hint*, it’s like the perfect backdrop for your next holiday card! Plus, themed mini sessions are a great way to capture your family’s evolving story each year. In addition to your annual full family session, of course.

5. Low Stress, High Reward

So let’s keep it real: traditional photo shoots can feel like a lot sometimes. I know with my ADHD brain sometimes the act of just trying to send an email can seem tough (especially when things get busy like back to school, or with all the holidays in the fall). With mini sessions, it’s all about keeping things relaxed and fun. Because we’re working with a shorter time frame, there’s less pressure to “get it perfect.” Instead, you get to enjoy the moment while I do the work of capturing your family’s personality in a natural, playful way.

young girl kisses baby sister's hand while cuddling with parents and baby holds copper wired string lights at studiostudio in ann arbor michigan

In a nutshell, mini sessions are the perfect fit for Ann Arbor families who want amazing photos without committing to a full-length session. They’re quick, budget-friendly, and – most importantly – fun!

If you’re in the Ann Arbor area and thinking about booking a mini session, I’d love to help capture those special moments for your family. Let’s make some magic together!

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Hi I'm Emily! The Ann Arbor, Michigan based photographer behind Emmy & Ollie Photography, mama to two littles Oliver & Violet, and lifelong partner to my husband Ryan. I'm here to share about my life, my photo journey, beautiful moments, and tips to help you have the best photo session!

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I'm your Ann Arbor native, family lifestyle photographer ready to make your photo dreams come true! If you're wondering what I'm all about, how to book a session, or anything else really (I'm an open book) click the link below!

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