What Is a Mini Photo Session? And Why We Offer Them

3/12/2026

Updating your family photos

If you’ve been browsing photography options, you’ve probably come across the term mini session. These have become incredibly popular—and for good reason.
At CatsMac Photography, mini sessions are one of our favourite ways to connect with families while creating beautiful, updated images you’ll love.

A brother between two sisters outside laughing and looking at the camera with large white pampas grass behind them

Two teenagers and two younger kids walking in the fall colours looking at the camera

Two ladies lying on the stomachs in the snow looking at the camera and laughing

A family of 5 looking at the camera in the snow with their arms outstretched and laughing

A family of 4 girls looking at each other as they are running in the snow

So, what exactly is a mini session?

A mini session is a shorter, simplified photo session. They typically run about 20 minutes and most often take place on specific dates with a styled setup we’ve created in advance.
You’ll still receive the same professional quality and attention to detail—just in a shorter, more focused experience.

A little girl sitting in a red Little Tykes truck in front yard on snow with Christmas tree in the back

A couple sitting outside on a red couch with trees around them holding a toddler and a newborn baby

A little girl in a beautiful tutu leading a unicorn along the grass

Why choose a mini session?

For many families, mini sessions are the perfect fit.
They’re:

Quick and easy – ideal for busy schedules
More affordable than full sessions
Perfect for kids with shorter attention spans
Perfect for pets
Great for updated family photos throughout the year

There’s no pressure, no long timelines—just a relaxed, fun experience.

A man and woman bending down with two dogs between them looking at camera among fall colours

A man and woman looking at the camera leaning against a which birch tree

A family of mom, dad and 3 children all holding hands walking towards the camera in the fall

A couple holding hands underneath a bridge with graffiti decorated arch

A little boy peeking out the rungs of a wooden bridge

Why we offer mini sessions

As photographers, mini sessions allow us to create something really special.
We design each setup with intention—whether it’s a fall scene with pumpkins, a Christmas setup, or something fun and unique like our duckling or unicorn sessions. Because everything is prepared ahead of time, we can focus fully on capturing genuine smiles and real moments.
Mini sessions also give families the chance to come back year after year, capturing memories as your children grow.

A family of mom and girls sitting on a vintage peacock chair in a sunflower field

A mom and little girl standing in a sunflower patch looking at a sunflower

A couple kissing holding a little baby girl among sunflowers

Mother giving a little girl a piggy back on the beach in the sunset

Little girl holding a number 9 balloon on the shore on a beach in the sunset

Mother and daughter holding hands walking along a beach in the sunset

Baby boy sitting in a pumpkin patch clapping his hands

Little boy in a pumpkin patch trying to climb up on a pumpkin

Are mini sessions right for you?

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and meaningful way to update your family photos, a mini session is a perfect choice.
If you’re wanting a fully customized experience with multiple locations or outfit changes, a full session may be a better fit.
Either way, we’re here to make sure your experience feels easy, relaxed, and enjoyable—and that you walk away with photos you truly love.