Short, joyful portrait experiences for busy families who want beautiful images without a full session.
Family Mini Sessions in New Jersey & Philadelphia
What Is a Mini Session?
10–20 minutes
One curated location + date window
A smaller set of finished images
Same Shooting Star artistry + guidance
Mini Sessions Are Perfect For…
Mini sessions are designed intentionally — they’re not for every situation, and that’s a good thing.
Families who want updated portraits without committing to a full session
Parents of young children who do best with short, relaxed experiences
Busy families who want something simple, joyful, and beautiful
Holiday cards, yearly updates, and milestone moments
Families new to Shooting Star Photography who want to start small
If you’re looking for multiple outfit changes, extended family groupings, or a longer storytelling experience, a full family session may be a better fit.
Seasonal Mini Session Experiences
Mini sessions are offered throughout the year in thoughtfully chosen locations with the best light and atmosphere for each season.
Beach Mini Sessions
Flower Field Mini Sessions
Fall Family Mini Sessions
Winter / Holiday Minis
What’s Included in a Mini Session
A short, guided portrait session designed for young children
Natural posing with gentle direction and room for real interaction
Professional hand-edited images in Shooting Star’s signature fine-art style
A curated online gallery to view and select your images
Styling guidance before your session (client closet access available for girls up to size 12/14, when applicable)
Mini sessions may be shorter in time, but the care and attention are never “mini.”
Mini Session Investment
Mini sessions are offered a few times each year and are designed to be simple, beautiful, and approachable — while still delivering the same care, guidance, and artistry that Shooting Star Photography is known for.
Mini session pricing starts at $125.
Each mini session includes:
A short, guided portrait experience
Professional hand-editing in my signature fine-art style
A curated online gallery
A set number of digital images included (varies by session theme)
Additional images are available for purchase once your gallery is delivered.
Mini sessions are offered at a special rate and are not customizable like full sessions.
Every mini session is thoughtfully planned — from lighting and location to styling and flow — so your images feel intentional, polished, and meaningful.
Locations & Seasonal Availability
Mini sessions are offered in select locations throughout South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area, based on the season and the experience being offered.
Locations are carefully chosen for:
Beautiful natural light
Easy access for families
A clean, timeless backdrop that lets your images shine
Depending on the time of year, mini sessions may take place in:
The Jersey Shore (beach minis at golden hour)
Flower farms & fields (spring and summer blooms)
Open meadows & nature preserves
Select Philadelphia locations with a soft, editorial feel
Each mini session date is tied to a specific location and season. Full details — including exact location, date, and time — are shared at booking.
✨ Important to Note
Mini sessions are only offered a few times each year and locations change seasonally. Once a date sells out, it will not be repeated.
How Mini Sessions Work
1. Mini sessions are released
Mini sessions are announced a few times each year, based on season and location. Each release includes a limited number of spots.
2. Choose your session on Big Cartel
Once released, available mini sessions can be reserved directly through the shop. Each listing includes the session theme, date, location, and what’s included.
3. Prepare with confidence
After booking, you’ll receive guidance on what to expect, how to prepare, and styling tips so everything feels easy and stress-free.
4. Enjoy your session
Sessions are short, guided, and relaxed — perfect for kids and busy families.
5. Select your images
Your edited gallery is delivered after your session, where you can choose your included images and upgrade if desired.
Mini sessions are designed to feel calm, efficient, and joyful — never rushed.
Ready to Book a Mini Session?
Mini sessions are released in limited quantities throughout the year and often sell out quickly.
A few moments from recent mini sessions
New mini sessions are added seasonally. If none are currently available, check back soon or follow along for announcements.