Skokie and Chicago North Shore
Mini Sessions
Thirty minutes, one location, photos you will actually print.
Book a Mini
What a mini session is
A mini session is a 30-minute session at one location with 10 edited images. It is the right choice when you want updated family photos without making a whole afternoon of it: a holiday card, a yearly update, a quick set with grandparents in town, or a milestone that does not need a full session.
Minis are photographed the same way as every session: natural light, gentle direction, real moments. The only difference is the length.
Seasonal mini sessions
Fall minis in October, when the North Shore turns gold, are the most popular sessions of the year and fill first. Holiday minis in November are timed for card printing. Spring minis in May catch the blossoms, and summer minis at the lakefront are the easiest to schedule.
Watch the blog and Instagram for seasonal dates, or book a mini any time of year at a park near you or at home.
What you get
- 30-minute session: at one location within 10 miles of Skokie
- 10 edited digital images: in a private online gallery
- Full print rights: for cards, prints and sharing
- Location suggestions: I will recommend a spot that fits the season and your family
What makes mini sessions work
Thirty minutes is enough only if the plan is tight. I choose the exact spot and the exact light before you arrive, so we spend the time on your family rather than on scouting.
Minis are not the right fit for every family. A newborn, a shy toddler who needs time to warm up, or a group of twelve usually does better with a Classic session. I will tell you honestly which one to book.
Fall dates go in August. The peak color window on the North Shore is only two or three weeks. If you want October minis, book in August.
Holiday cards need a deadline. Galleries are delivered within 2 to 3 weeks. For cards that mail in early December, book your mini by early November.
Mini session pricing
Mini sessions are $200 for 30 minutes at one location with 10 edited images. Every package includes professionally edited images in a private online gallery with full print rights. Sessions within 10 miles of Skokie carry no travel fee. Need more time or more images? The Classic session is $325 for 60 minutes and 20 images.
View Full Pricing
Common questions about mini sessions
How much is a family mini session?
$200 for a 30-minute session at one location with 10 edited digital images, an online gallery and full print rights. There is no travel fee within 10 miles of Skokie.
Where are mini sessions held?
At parks throughout Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Lincolnwood and the North Shore, or at your home. For seasonal minis I announce a location and date. Otherwise we pick a spot together.
Are mini sessions good for newborns?
Usually not. Newborn sessions need feeding breaks and unhurried time, so I recommend the Classic or Full session for a new baby.
How many people can be in a mini session?
Immediate family works best. For extended family or groups larger than six, book a Classic or Full session so everyone gets their frames.
When will we get our photos?
Your edited gallery is delivered within 2 to 3 weeks. If you are on a holiday card deadline, tell me when you book and I will plan around it.
Where I photograph
Ready for a quick, beautiful update?
Tell me the season and the area you have in mind and I will suggest a mini session date and location.
Book a Mini