How’s everyone holding up? Mini season is in FULL swing, and I’m absolutely loving seeing all the holiday magic you’re creating for your clients! It’s so inspiring to be part of such a talented, dedicated group of photographers. Whether this is your first year running minis or you’re a seasoned pro, I know we’re all constantly tweaking our process to set ourselves up for success. I just kicked off my holiday minis this past weekend, so I thought now would be the perfect time to share some behind-the-scenes moments and a few of my go-to tips. #NoGatekeepingHere 🙌

Here’s my game plan leading up to mini sessions:First, at the start of the week I do a massive brain dump for all that needs to get done and print out a physical to-do list so I don’t miss any details (there’s something so satisfying about checking things off a physical list, right?). This list has everything: reaching out to vendors (venue, florist, set designer—whoever I’m working with), double-checking the weather forecast, sending clients all the need-to-know info, getting snacks and drinks ready… the works! Want to see my whole checklist? It’s just a click away below. 👇

Another must-have for minis: a day-of spreadsheet. This sheet is a total lifesaver, with each session organized by time slot, complete with family names, contact info, and a few notes about the family (like kids’ names). Having all my clients’ info in one place makes everything so much smoother! I make this using Google Sheets or Excel, it’s so simple but a total must.

Finally, to keep things easy, I like to “pin” text message chats for all the clients I will be photographing. That way, I can quickly check in, confirm details, and stay connected without missing a beat.

On the day of the minis, I set up a little refreshments table where the kids could cozy up with hot chocolate and cookies after their session was complete. I even printed a “Chocolate Milk Bar” sign because the magic is in the details! I also worked with a local business to make custom ornaments as a gift for each of my clients, they were each engraved with their family’s last name and doubled as a little frame for a polaroid photo I took of them during their session. I raised my prices this year for my studio minis and these little details really elevate the client experience and make it feel extra luxe.

For the set design, I had a clear VISION. I had created a Pinterest board with ideas months ago and was able to borrow fabric from a photographer friend to make the flowy, organic backdrop you see below. Check out my Pinterest board inspo so you can see what I was envisioning! I worked with an amazing local florist that also helped bring the vision to life.

Ok, now lets chat about SUPPORT. Minis are a huge production, having a day of assistant is so important. Whether its your husband, sister or fellow photographer friend, having extra hands is a total game changer AND its a great way to get behind the scenes footage that you can use to create reels and promote your next minis! Bonus points if you create a note in your phone that you can share with your assistant with specific shots you would like them to capture the say of your minis.

I hope you found this helpful! I am wishing you nothing but the best in this holiday season and PLEASE let me know if you have any helpful tips that make your holiday minis a breeze. I still have Christmas Tree Farm Minis later this month and would love to try out any of your tips! Let’s keep making magic this season! 🎉