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Mini Session Prep Guide

How to make the most out of your mini session

You’ve booked a mini session, what's next? Mini sessions are quick, fun, and designed to give you beautiful, professional images in a short amount of time. To help you get the most out of this experience, I’ve put together a simple guide on how to prepare and what to expect during your session. With just a little preparation, we’ll make sure your photos turn out amazing!

Romantic Dance at Pasadena City Hall Engagement Shoot

Before the Session

Outfits

Choosing the right outfit can make a big difference in how you feel and how the photos turn out. Simple, solid colors are a go-to because they keep the focus on you. For group shots, try to coordinate outfits rather than match them - a complementary approach to wardrobe will typically work best. Complementary tones—like soft neutrals or warm earth tones—often work well. Most importantly, wear something comfortable. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it’ll show in the photos!

Hair and Makeup

Keep it natural and polished. A fresh, simple makeup look works best, and for hair, don’t stress about perfection. Whether it’s a soft wave or a simple updo, the key is to feel like yourself. If you tend to get shiny in photos, bring along a little powder or blotting papers to manage any last-minute touch-ups.

A Quick Checklist

Make sure you have a few essentials on hand—lip balm, a brush, or a favorite accessory if you want to add a personal touch to your shots. Simple props can also enhance the mood, but don’t overpack! Keeping things light helps us stay focused and on schedule.

On the Day of the Session

Arrive Early

To make the most of our 20 minutes, plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before the session. This gives you time to settle in, check your outfit, and get comfortable. We’ll jump right into shooting, so being ready is key to maximizing every moment.

Relax and Have Fun

When we start, don’t worry about posing perfectly—I’ll guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re here for headshots, family portraits, or a milestone, the goal is to capture you at your best, naturally. I’ll help you with positioning and expressions, so all you need to do is relax and trust the process. Candid, real moments always turn out the best, so enjoy the experience!

Making the Most of Your Session

If you’re with family or loved ones, focus on connecting with them rather than worrying about the camera. Small moments like shared laughter or a casual embrace often make for the most beautiful photos. Let those genuine interactions shine through.

While the session might be quick, it’s more than enough time to capture a wide range of stunning images. After the shoot, I’ll provide you with the full gallery so you can go through all the photos and pick your favorites. From there, you can choose the ones you’d like to keep, ensuring you walk away with the images that mean the most to you.

Stanley Wu Photography
(424) 652-6330 – hello@stanleywuphotography.com
@stanleywuphotography @stanleywuweddings
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