Mini Sessions in Victoria, BC

Short, relaxed seasonal sessions for families who want fresh photos without planning a full shoot.

seasonal family photo session, Mini Sessions

Sometimes you don’t need a full session. Maybe you’d love an updated photo for this year’s holiday card, a quick set of images while the kids are still little, or a simple way to capture a new season of family life. That’s what mini sessions are for.

I’m Alyssa, a lifestyle photographer based in North Saanich. From season to season, I offer short mini sessions on set dates. They’re relaxed, quick and a lovely way to get beautiful family photos with very little planning on your part.

Here’s how mini sessions work, and how to make sure you hear about the next dates as soon as they’re ready.

How Mini Sessions Work

Mini sessions are shorter than a full session and are offered on set dates each season. Because much of the planning is done ahead of time, all you need to do is choose your outfits, bring your family and enjoy yourselves.

Even though the session is short, my approach doesn’t change. There’s still no “say cheese”, still plenty of play and still a focus on the real connection between you. The details for each round, including the location, session length and what’s included, are shared when the dates are announced.

  • A short, focused session on a set seasonal date.
  • Simple planning, so there’s less for you to organize.
  • A great fit for holiday cards, yearly updates and busy families.
  • The same relaxed, connection-focused style as my full sessions.

How to Hear About the Next Dates

I don’t post fixed mini session dates on this page, because they change with each season. The best way to hear about the next round is to send me a message and ask to be added to my email list for mini sessions. You’ll get the details, the location and the booking information as soon as they’re ready.

When you message me, tell me a little about your family, the ages of your kids and the kind of session you’re hoping for. That helps me let you know whether an upcoming mini session or a full session will suit you best.

If you’d like a little more time, more variety in your images or a location of your own choosing, a full family photography session may be a better fit. You can compare options on my Investment page.

Making the Most of a Short Session

With a shorter session, a little preparation goes a long way. Arrive a few minutes early so the kids can settle, and plan around naps and snacks so everyone is in a good mood. Choose coordinated outfits that suit the season’s backdrop, and bring a layer in case the weather turns.

My session guide covers what to wear and how to prepare, and my post on what to expect during mini session season goes into more detail.

  • Arrive early and use the washroom before your slot.
  • Bring water, snacks and wipes.
  • Let the kids explore for a minute before we begin.
  • Relax and enjoy each other. I’ll take care of the rest.

Alyssa had such an amazing way of helping us feel relaxed and have fun! I’m so happy with how the photos turned out and she really captured each one of my children so beautifully. I will always cherish these photos and HIGHLY recommend hiring her!

Rebekah O.
5.0 on Google · 14 reviews

Questions families ask

When are your next mini sessions?

Dates change each season. Reach out through my contact page and ask to join my email list for mini sessions, and you’ll hear when new dates open.

How long is a mini session?

Mini sessions are shorter than my full sessions. The exact length for each round is shared when the dates are announced.

Can grandparents join a mini session?

Ask me when you reach out about the next round. If you’d love the whole extended family together, a full extended family session gives everyone more time and more groupings.

Can I choose my own location for a mini session?

The location for each round is shared when the dates are announced. If you have a particular spot in mind, a full session lets you choose the place that means the most to you.

What do we receive after a mini session?

Your photos arrive in a private online gallery, and the details of what’s included are shared with each round of dates. Prints and other products can be ordered through me as well.

Let’s connect

Tell me a little about your family and the session you have in mind, and I’ll get back to you with dates and ideas.