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Destination Wedding Photographer Serving
Orange County, California & Beyond

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I'm a Dog Loving, Step Counting, Travel-Crazy Curly Girl With A Passion For Photography!

I'm Alaina

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We all know of the classic family struggle: so much to do, and no time to do it! When life seems like it’s a roller coaster that no one can slow down, documenting big family moments can end up low on the priority list. In my experience with family photography, I’ve found that mini sessions are the perfect solution to that constant family debate between wanting to capture the growth of your family and not feeling like there’s time to prioritize those moments! Keep reading for an outline of the five reasons that I think make family mini sessions the perfect choice.

Reason #1: These sessions are quick.

Not only is it difficult to plan time as a family, but sessions that aim to keep the attention of young children can’t last for too long. When I shoot a mini session, it’s an average of 30 minutes, meaning that both your schedule and the less attentive members of your family can both handle the time we’ll spend together!

Reason #2: You have the chance to cherish memories of your family’s growth.

While it’s hard to schedule set time to capture your family as they are right now, it’s so so important. Documenting your family in their current phase, especially if it’s about to expand, is something you’ll undoubtedly want to look back on some day. A mini session can get you in and out quickly, while also capturing some sweet moments that you can look back on as a family.

Reason #3: They’re affordable.

It’s really tough to have to make the choice between capturing your sweet family with a professional photographer and staying on a budget. I try to keep families from having to make those difficult decisions by keeping my mini sessions affordable for all families!

Reason #4: They’re less formal than longer shoots.

Booking a mini session means that the members of your family will have a chance to be themselves. Through the more casual nature of a short family session, I have the chance to get shots of sweet genuine moments. Children get to showcase their personalities for the camera, which is a special thing to capture.

Reason #5: It’s a chance to slow down.

I find that family sessions can be kind of the “reset” that the family may have needed. Getting to focus on one another for half an hour can bring even more love to the surface, and that can carry into the remainder of the family’s day! It’s not easy to slow down (this is California, after all), and I find that quick family photography moments really help to create some slowness.

If this article hasn’t convinced you to book a family session with me, visit the rest of my website and consider filling out an inquiry form so we can chat about if a family mini session might be the right fit!

Cheers, Alaina

Client Praise

-Maryanne, February 2022 Bride

 On top of how perfect her photography is, working with her is an absolute joy! She is so kind and funny and made us feel so comfortable.

"Alaina showcased our love authentically"

-Veronica, August 2022 bride

She is an expert at making you and your significant other laugh, is incredibly detail-oriented and organized, and truly cares about capturing your wedding day perfectly.

"Alaina truly cares."

- Tracie, October 2021 bride

Alaina is spunky and fun and full of great ideas. She made my fiance and I feel so comfortable during our time together. We loved all the candid photos she caught of us!

"Alaina had us laughing the whole time"

© Alaina Elizabeth Photography LLC