What’s the Difference Between a Micro Mini, Mini, and Standard Session?
Starla Kay Mathis is an Indianapolis Published Photographer, and her work have been featured in MORE Magazine and Indy Maven. Mathis Media Studio is an Indianapolis Photography Studio specializing in Portrait, Family, Milestone, Seniors, Newborn, Weddings, and “In The Box” Photography.
Choosing the right photography session can make all the difference in capturing the perfect moments for your needs. At Mathis Media Studio, we offer a variety of session lengths—from quick Micro Mini Sessions to Full-Length Standard Sessions—so you can get the best fit for your occasion, budget, and expectations. Whether you're looking for a fast, stress-free experience or a fully customized shoot with multiple locations, this guide will help you decide which session is right for you!
When Should You Choose a Micro Mini Session?
Micro Mini Sessions are great when you don’t need a full-length session but still want professional-quality images. Consider this option for:
Quick Holiday or Seasonal Portraits – Ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, back-to-school, or milestone, birthdays.
Simple Headshots – Need an updated LinkedIn or business photo? This is a great budget-friendly option.
Child Milestone Photos – Perfect for capturing growth moments without committing to a long session.
Social Media & Greeting Cards – A fast way to get high-quality images for digital or print use.
Micro Mini Session – 15 minutes | 3 professionally edited images | $75
Best for: Quick, no-fuss portraits when you need a few high-quality images.
Why choose a Micro Mini? This fast, efficient session works well for small needs like seasonal photos, quick headshots, or milestone updates. It’s great for people who want a budget-friendly option or don’t need a lot of variety in their images.
When Should You Choose a Mini Session?
Mini Sessions are perfect for those who want more than a Micro Mini but don’t need a full-length shoot. Choose a Mini Session if you:
Want more pose options and expressions – More time means we can capture a variety of looks.
Are including multiple children or small family groupings – Mini Sessions allow for both individual and group shots.
Want a mix of candid and posed photos – More time lets us capture natural moments and interactions.
Prefer a relaxed experience – If 15 minutes feels too short, a Mini gives you a bit more time to get comfortable.
Mini Session – 30 minutes | 5 professionally edited images | $100
Best for: Those who want more variety than a Micro Mini but don’t need a full session.
Why choose a Mini Session? With 30 minutes, you’ll have time for multiple poses, more expressions, and a mix of candid and posed shots. Mini Sessions allow for individual portraits as well as small family or sibling groupings without feeling rushed.
When Should You Choose a Full Standard Session?
A full session is best when you need more variety, multiple locations, or outfit changes. Book a full-length session if you:
Want a wide selection of images – Standard sessions provide 8 to 20+ edited images, giving you more variety to choose from.
Need multiple looks – If you’re planning to change outfits or want both indoor & outdoor settings.
Are celebrating a major milestone – Think engagement sessions, maternity, or professional branding.
Have a large group – Extended family portraits or multi-person branding shoots benefit from the extra time.
Want full creative direction – More time allows us to get creative, set up intricate poses, and explore unique locations.
Full Standard Sessions – For when you need more time & variety
If you need more than just a handful of images, want outfit changes, or are capturing a bigger occasion, a full-length session is the best option for you:
60-Minute Session (Good) – Starting at $300
8 - 10 professionally edited images
1 location of your choice
1 - 2 week delivery via online gallery
Perfect for: Engagements, family portraits, maternity sessions, branding/headshots with outfit changes, milestone celebrations
90-Minute Session (Better) – Starting at $500
11 - 20 professionally edited images
1 - 2 locations of your choice
1 - 2 week delivery via online gallery
Perfect for: Couples, senior portraits, maternity sessions, large families, branding & content creation sessions
120-Minute Session (Best) – Starting at $700
20+ professionally edited images
1 - 2 locations of your choice
1 - 2 week delivery via online gallery
Perfect for: Extended family portraits, full branding sessions, graduation shoots, creative concept photography
Why Book With Mathis Media Studio?
At Mathis Media Studio, we’ve been telling stories through photography since 2009, capturing hundreds of sessions over the years. Whether you need a quick update or a fully customized photoshoot, we bring years of expertise to ensure your images are not just pictures but lasting memories.
A Professional Setup – No need to stress about lighting, backdrops, or poses—we handle everything.
Fast Turnaround – Your professionally edited images will be ready within 1-2 weeks.
A Relaxed & Fun Experience – We help you feel comfortable in front of the camera so your images feel natural and authentic.
High-Quality Photography – Every session is designed with expert lighting, composition, and editing for the best results.
Book Your Session Today!
Spots fill fast! Whether you need a Quick Micro Mini, a Fun Mini Session, or a Full Creative Shoot, Mathis Media Studio has the perfect option for you!