It’s that time of year — cozy sweaters, crisp air, and those beautiful evergreen backdrops! 🌲

Tree Farm Mini Sessions are some of my favorite sessions to shoot — they're fast-paced, fun, and give families the perfect opportunity to update their portraits just in time for the holidays. If you’ve booked a Tree Farm Mini Session with Emily Valentine Photography, here’s everything you need to know to prepare, know what to expect, and feel confident walking in.

What Is a Mini Session? (And How Is It Different From a Full Session?)

Think of mini sessions like speed dating... but with a camera and a lot more cuteness.

Unlike full sessions where we stroll, chat, and take our time getting comfortable, mini sessions are short and sweet. I book them back-to-back in 10–15 minute slots to fit in multiple families in one day. That means we jump right in!

💡 Mini sessions are ideal for:

Getting a few updated family photos
Holiday card portraits
Kids-only or sibling shots
Couples who want a quick, festive session

Because there’s no time to warm up or “ease in,” there are a few things you can do to help your session go as smoothly (and joyfully!) as possible.

1. Be Punctual (Please, Please Be Punctual)

I can’t stress this enough — arrive 10 minutes early. These sessions run back-to-back, and there isn’t wiggle room to run over time. If you’re late, your session time may be cut short or you may need to wait until all sessions are done.

If you arrive too early (20+ minutes), hang back a bit. Find a spot where your kids can relax without distracting the family I’m currently working with. A few minutes of quiet observation can even help kids feel more at ease when it’s their turn!

📱 If you’re running late or someone wakes up sick (life happens), please text me as soon as possible so I can adjust the schedule if needed.

2. Know the Location Ahead of Time

I get it. Life is chaos. You’ll be scrolling through emails or Facebook the morning of the session, trying to find the address while buckling your toddler into their car seat.

Do yourself a favor and save the location details the night before. Enter it in your GPS ahead of time so it’s ready to go. This year’s Tree Farm Minis are at Abrahamsen Tree Farm in Catskill, NY — the lighting, trees, and layout here are ideal for beautiful, classic photos.

3. Prepare the Kiddos

The best way to help kids shine in their session? Make sure they’re rested and full.

✨ Tips to prep your child for their mini session:

Stick to their normal nap schedule
Feed them beforehand
Bring non-messy snacks (puffs, dry cereal, etc.)
Pack a lovie or small toy for comfort

Let me know if they love a certain song or character — I’ll shamelessly sing Baby Shark if it gets a giggle!

4. Dress for the Setting (But Keep It Comfortable)

Tree Farm photos are stunning — deep greens, warm earth tones, and cozy textures look amazing here. I always recommend neutral or jewel-toned outfits (think forest green, cream, burgundy, navy). Avoid neon colors or bold logos that might distract from the natural setting.

Layers (like scarves or cardigans) work great in the chilly air and photograph beautifully. And make sure everyone's outfits are weather-appropriate — cold kids are cranky kids.

💡 I’ll send you a wardrobe guide when you book, but feel free to ask me for feedback if you’re unsure!

5. Most Importantly… Relax and Have Fun

This might be the hardest part — but it’s the most important.

I know you're thinking:

"Will my kids behave?"
"Will my husband fake smile the whole time?"
"Are we going to get any good shots in 10 minutes?!"

But here’s the thing: you made it.
You got everyone dressed. You arrived on time. You're here.

Now let’s enjoy these few minutes together. Laugh. Snuggle. Let your kids be silly. Don’t stress about perfection — I’ll take care of the rest. Some of the best photos come from unexpected, unscripted moments.

Final Thoughts

Mini sessions might be quick, but they’re packed with love, laughter, and beautiful moments frozen in time. If you follow these simple tips, your Tree Farm Mini Session will go smoothly — and you'll walk away with timeless holiday photos you'll treasure forever.

🎄 Now booking Tree Farm Mini Sessions at Abrahamsen Tree Farm in Catskill, NY!
Spots are limited and fill fast

See you at the tree farm!

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How to Prepare for Your Tree Farm Mini Session - Albany NY Family Photographer