If you’ve ever wanted beautiful professional photos without committing to a full hour-long session, a mini session might be just what you're looking for.

Mini sessions are short, sweet, and full of heart — designed to capture real connection in a shorter amount of time, with the same care and quality I give every session.

So... what is a mini session?

A mini session is a condensed version of a full photo session, usually:

15–20 minutes long
At a pre-determined location
On specific dates/times
Includes a select number of edited images (with the option to upgrade)

It’s a perfect option if you’re looking for updated photos of your family, your kids, your partner, or even just yourself — without the time or investment of a full session.

What makes mini sessions special?

Even in just 20 minutes, you’d be surprised how much magic we can create. Think:

Kids being silly in the golden light
Families snuggling in a flower field
Real smiles, real giggles, real connection

Just because mini sessions are shorter doesn’t mean they’re less meaningful. I pour the same heart, care, and attention to detail into your mini session as I do for a full session. Every image is thoughtfully composed and lovingly edited — because your moments deserve nothing less.

Mini sessions are not rushed snapshots — they’re focused, intentional, and relaxed. My goal is to make you feel comfortable, seen, and celebrated in the moment.

Who are mini sessions perfect for?

Busy families who want updated photos
Parents who want to capture growing kiddos
People who feel camera-shy and prefer a shorter session
Anyone who loves seasonal themes (spring blooms, fall leaves, etc.)

Portrait of a toddler sitting in a soft, neutral-toned space, looking gently toward the camera. Captured during a mini session by Mill Town Photo Company, a Torrington, CT-based portrait studio.

Not All Minis Are the Same — Let’s Talk Themes

At Mill Town Photo Company, mini sessions come in two flavors:
themed and classic — and each one is special in its own way.

Themed Mini Sessions

These are the extra fun ones — the kind that sparkle with a little magic. Think:

A field full of daffodils in early spring
Cozy holiday pajama sessions in the studio
Fall leaves and apple crates at golden hour
A simple setup with wildflowers and soft linens

These sessions are curated to tell a visual story. I plan every detail — from the location and timing to the vibe and sometimes even simple props — so all you have to do is show up, relax, and enjoy the moment.

They’re perfect for marking a season, celebrating milestones, or just creating something a little different and dreamy.

Classic “Bite-Sized” Sessions

These are timeless and beautifully simple. No props, no themes — just you and your people in a beautiful location with natural light and real connection.

Think of them as a quick and meaningful way to:

Update your family photo
Celebrate a birthday
Capture your growing kids
Get a few beautiful images without the full-session commitment

These sessions are ideal for anyone who wants heartfelt, high-quality photos without the bells and whistles.

Portrait of a 12-year-old girl smiling softly at Topsmead State Forest in Litchfield, CT, taken during a spring mini session by Torrington-based Mill Town Photo Company.

What do you get?

Here’s what a typical Mill Town Photo mini includes:

20-minute session
8 hand-edited digital images
A beautiful natural location (hello, daffodil fields!)
The option to purchase additional images or prints

And of course, a calm, joyful experience with a photographer who sees the beauty in your everyday.

Unique Ways to Use a Mini Session (You Might Not Have Thought Of!)

Motherhood or maternity moments
– Just mama and her babies, or a quiet bump session in the blooms.
A “just because” session with your best friend
– Matching dresses, coffee cups, and laughter? Yes please.
Celebrating a new job, graduation, or life shift
– Mini milestone, major meaning.
Branding photos with a personal touch
– For makers, creatives, small biz owners, or anyone needing a few fresh headshots.
Photos with grandparents
– Timeless, emotional, and often overlooked.
Documenting “the in-between” years
– Not a holiday card, not a birthday… just life, right now.
Siblings-only portraits
– Let their bond shine on its own.
Pet & people sessions
– Your pup or kitty is 100% family. Let’s capture that.
Father’s Day or Mother’s Day gifts
– Frame-worthy moments for the people who always take the pictures, but rarely get to be in them.
Seasonal style sessions
– That new dress, those muddy boots, the curls and freckles of spring? Immortalized.

Outdoor fall maternity portrait captured during a mini session by Mill Town Photo Company in Torrington, CT. Expecting mother poses in a golden field surrounded by autumn foliage, bathed in warm natural light.

When are they offered?

Mini sessions are seasonal and limited! I usually announce them on Instagram and through my email list first. They tend to book up quickly, so it’s a good idea to jump on the list to get early access.