Leah O'Connell

Charlottesville family photographer

for photographers, podcast

Photo Fuel Episode 14 : Why I don’t do fall mini sessions

I'm Leah!

I’m obsessed with stories of family, creativity, and simple joys.  A nostalgia nerd, educator, wife, and mom of 3, I believe life’s most fun when you’re dreaming big and having kitchen dance parties. 

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Right about now, many of you in the family photography world are probably starting to think about planning and marketing for your fall mini sessions. But do you *have* do them?? I am a family photographer exclusively and I don’t do fall mini sessions. Actually I don’t offer mini sessions any time of year.

If you feel stuck hating fall mini sessions because you think you *have* to offer them or need the quick cash, it may be time to get an alternative perspective.

Mini sessions are a great way to get started, practice, and develop your skills. But at a certain point, you can decide if it’s something that’s really aligned with your business goals… or not.

That’s what we’re digging into today – My 3 main arguments against doing fall mini sessions and a few ideas for how to supplement your business income or calendar instead. 

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why I don't do fall mini sessions as a family photographer

/// Links mentioned ///

QT albums: get 20% off your first order with code FUEL20 or a free studio sample – just reach out and mention Photo Fuel and they’ll get you hooked up with your album sample

The Big Picture Workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Mentoring with Leah : https://leahoconnell.com/mentoring

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why I don't do fall mini sessions as a family photographer

/// Timestamps ///

(00:01:08) – Personal Experience with Mini Sessions

(00:02:18) – 3 Counterarguments to Mini Sessions
(00:04:44) – Effort vs. Reward in Mini Sessions

(00:05:51) – Quick Cash vs. Sustainable Income

(00:07:07) – Understanding Client Goals

(00:10:14) – Demand and Pricing Strategy

(00:12:18) – Ideas for how to boost bookings and income instead of mini sessions

(00:20:30) – Simplifying Offers

(00:24:49) – Get support!

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Hi, I'm Leah.
Family photographer, writer, educator.

I’m  one of the first to meet your newborn baby, the one who won't judge your clothes baskets and unmade beds, and the one who can capture the way your husband looks at you with a twinkle in his eye after 12 years of marriage. I believe in honoring people and telling stories.

I believe art has the power to light up the world in dark places, starting at home.