Full Session vs Mini Session: Which Dog Photoshoot Is Right for You?

Chantell Schulz • November 20, 2025

If you’re trying to decide between a full dog photography session and a mini session, here are the five biggest differences to help you choose the perfect fit for your furbaby.

1. Time & Pace

Mini sessions are short and fast, which are great for quick portraits and dogs who settle quickly.
Full sessions are relaxed, giving your dog plenty of time to sniff, warm up, and get comfortable before we begin.

2. Location Options

Mini sessions usually take place at a pre-selected location on set dates.
Full sessions allow you to choose the location, whether that’s a favourite park, the woods, downtown, or even your own backyard.

3. Number of Photos

Mini sessions deliver a small selection of final images, perfect for cards, prints, and social media.
Full sessions include more variety and a larger gallery, with portraits, close-ups, details, personality shots, action photos, and everything in between.

4. Best Fit for Your Dog’s Personality

Confident, easygoing dogs often do great with a short session.
Shy, energetic, reactive, or slow-to-warm-up dogs usually thrive in a full session.

5. Overall Experience

Mini sessions are short, themed, and budget-friendly. They are a snapshot of your dog in that moment.
Full sessions are the complete experience. They are longer, more creative, and are designed to showcase your dog’s story and spirit fully.

Comparison at a Glance

Feature Mini Session Full Session
Length Short & fast Longer and relaxed
Location Pre-selected Your choice
Number of photos Small selection Larger variety
Best for Confident dogs, seasonal themes, cards or prints Shy or reactive dogs, multiple dogs, full galleries
Cost Lower, budget friendly Higher, but greater customization & variety

Which One Should You Choose?

If you want just a few cute portraits or seasonal photos, a mini session is perfect.
If you want more photos, more variety, more time for your dog to settle, or a personalized experience, a full session is the way to go.


Either way, your dog doesn’t need to sit still, behave perfectly, or model like a pro. I work with them as they are, and every session is designed to be fun, stress-free, and dog-led.

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