Location:

So, to begin this Motherhood Mini Session journey I was on, I had to figure out the perfect setting for my mamas. I am not going to lie this one was HARD! Every year I see the same Mommy and Me promos of moms in a field of flowers, having a picnic in the park, in their homes, and on the beach. Don't get me wrong, I love the way all of these session settings turn out, they are all so beautiful, but I personally just wanted something different from everyone else. So, I began searching, and searching, and searching! My head was spinning, and I started to feel a bit discouraged. Then it hit me! Hello! Crusita, you have connections to one of the most beautiful homes that belonged to a very strong, loving, graceful mother. She turned this house into a HOME, not just for her own daughters, but for her entire family! What better setting to use than her home! So, thanks to her and her daughters, I had the privilege to photograph so many wonderful mothers here! I will forever be grateful to them for opening their home to me and my clients.

After finding the perfect location, I needed to get down to business.

Literally.

Plan It Out:

For my fellow photographers you have to remember to take into account: lighting, weather, duration, deliverables, pricing, rentals, occasionally permits and licenses, and how to get the most out of your location. The last point is key because you want all your clients to show off, in this case, their exclusive mini session however, at the same time you want to make sure they don't all look so repetitive.

Guides:

Another big learning point I learned; Wardrobe Guides are just as important for Mini Sessions as they are for Full Sessions. So, take the time to really study your location and it's: textures, colors, themes, and architecture. Now remember, this is a Wardrobe Guide, not a "You Must Wear This and Only This" Guide. Key word here is "Options". Make sure to give options of color, textiles, styles, etc., but we don't want to overwhelm either. We must find that sweet spot of guidance. Another Guide you would want to create, especially if your location spot is hard or confusing to find is: A Location Guide. Just a quick map to show where to park, walk, and where you will be.

Lens Rental? Yes or No?

Next thing to think about, which is definitely not required is lens rental. Sometimes, it is not a good move to rent especially if you haven't booked like how you wanted to. In other instances, it could be a very good move to get a different look/feel with a wide or zoom lens. Especially if you are going for a certain look and a wide angle lens will help you best achieve that. It is up to you and your budget here, but don't worry if you can't or don't rent.

Don't Forget:

Big tip for those who plan on holding Mini Session for a full day... DON'T FORGET TO PLAN IN YOUR BREAKS/LUNCH! I unfortunately learned this the hard way back when I first started out. Make sure you are also drinking your water and maybe a few snacks if needed.

Workflow:

What I found helpful when planning these minis sessions was to grab a pen and paper and plan out how I can make sure this day ran as smoothly as possible. Not only for me, but for all my mamas and their littles. This is called your "Workflow" for the day/days.

It may kind of look something like this:

the Weeks Before:

• Make sure contracts are signed
• Payments have been made
• Location is set in stone
• All guides are created and sent

the Night Before:

• Camera gear is cleaned
• Lenses are packed
• Batteries are charge AND LOADED
• SD cards are ready to go

the Day of:

• Arrive 30 mins prior for prep
• Make sure all camera settings are set
• Start with Mama and Littles
• Mama with each little
• Individuals
• Details

the Night of:

• Upload and backup photos
• Edit a sneak peek for each Motherhood Mini

And this is just a quick sample you may have more and you may have less. But it is always a good idea to plan it out to create some organization and put you at ease so your brain has more room to create.

That's it! Now you have some key tips on making sure your Mini Sessions run smoother and a peek into how I achieved these Motherhood Mini Sessions.

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