In the spring of 2025, I hosted Huntsville mini sessions at Hays Preserve. Being new to the Huntsville area we explored Hays Preserve and I knew it’d be an incredible spot for capturing family photos. I love the wide open fields especially for photos with young toddlers. There’s the ability to allow toddlers to explore in the open fields. These mini sessions went perfectly and will definitely be happening again. You can always stay up to date on upcoming Huntsville mini sessions by following along on Instagram.

What are Mini Sessions?

Mini Sessions are basically shortened photography sessions. They are typically anywhere from 10-20 minute sessions and include a limited number of photos. Photographers will host mini sessions on a select date and then book client sessions back to back when hosting mini sessions. These sessions can be perfect for if you are looking for just a few photos rather than a full gallery. Mini sessions are also a more budget friendly option as they are typically less of an investment than a full session. They do however come with more limitations. The date, time, and location of mini sessions is set in advance and not flexible due to scheduling sessions back to back. Mini sessions are great for capturing a few updated family photos, seasonal photos such as Christmas photos, and pregnancy announcements. A full session is better for newborn photos, extended family session, and families wanting a full gallery.

What to Expect During Your Mini Session

During your mini session you can expect to have a 10-20 minute session that will include multiple poses to capture different portraits. With mini sessions it is very important to be on time to your session as other clients are typically scheduled right after you. Your session will take place at the set location and for my mini sessions I shoot very quickly. The session takes place in a limited time, so I am constantly shooting and capturing moments throughout our session. Especially with young toddlers I tend to shoot A LOT of images and very quickly. Toddlers can suddenly give us the perfect smile we’ve been looking for so we want to capture it when it happens.

Behind the Lens: My Approach to Mini Sessions

Although mini sessions occur over a limited time I still try to capture several poses for the whole family. For a family mini session I typically start with photos of the whole family. Next, I will do photos of just the kids together and individually. As long as time allows, I’ll also try to capture some with mom and the kids then just dad and the kids. Lastly, I capture a few photos of just mom and dad. This structure is of course flexible, but I like to start with ensuring we get the family photo. I leave the photos of just mom and dad until the end because children can be tired of having pictures taken by the end.

Throughout the session I guide my clients through their photos. I prefer to give my clients prompts to create natural moments rather than over posing. One of my favorite prompts is to all hold hands, slowly walk towards me, but don’t look at the camera. Instead I have everyone take turns looking at different members of their family.

Booking Huntsville Mini Sessions

Booking Huntsville mini sessions can be easy. I share my upcoming mini sessions on Instagram, so that’s the best place to stay up to date on upcoming mini sessions. I provide a simple link that allows you to easily select your time, pay the retainer, and sign your contract all with just a few clicks. My goal is to make family portraits as stress-free as possible and that starts with a simple booking process. If you are interested in booking a full session or inquiring about upcoming mini sessions you can also reach out to me here!

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Kelsea Adams Photography is a Huntsville based family and senior lifestyle photographer that strives to capture natural moments. The biggest goal is to create a stress-free experience that results in natural, authentic, timeless moments between you and your family. Lifestyle sessions are available for seniors, families, motherhood, and milestones in Huntsville, AL.