Mini sessions at the market


Offering mini sessions at the market is a great way to meet new clients and book them on the spot. Not only can you make money from the sessions, but you’re also setting yourself up for long-term business growth by introducing your work to new families. But before you start snapping away, you need to think through your setup to make the experience smooth and visually appealing.

 

 

Things to consider before setting up…


Before planning your mini session setup, ask yourself:


  • Is the market inside or outside? This affects lighting, space, and weather considerations.


  • Do you have to stay at your booth? If so, you’ll need to make sure your setup works within a limited space. If not, you can scout a nearby location that’s better suited for photos.


  • Is the area scenic, or do you need a backdrop? Some markets have beautiful natural light and surroundings, while others might require you to bring a backdrop or setup.

 

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Three outdoor set up ideas…
A family sits together on a checkered blanket for a picnic in a grassy field on a sunny day.

For this market I brought a blanket, some baskets, & dried flowers to use. This was set up right behind my booth & families could snuggle up for a mini shoot.

Spring Market

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Three outdoor set up ideas…
Family together in a warm embrace wearing neutral tones against a white backdrop with subtle mountain decor.

For the fall market I used vintage table cloths as the backdrop & decorated with pumpkins, flowers, mushroom decor and vintage cameras. I used outdoor string light posts to hang the table cloths.

Fall Market

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Three outdoor set up ideas…
Family decorating a Christmas tree together outdoors by a rustic wooden barn wall during winter.

At this market I was outside so used the wall of the building as the backdrop. I brought Christmas trees and a vintage wooden sled. I also brought along some Christmas trees bulbs & let the kids decorate the tree as part of the shoot.

Holiday Market

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Mini Session Set-Up Ideas


1. Keep It Simple with Natural Light

If the market is outdoors and has good scenery, take advantage of it! A shady tree-lined path, a field with wildflowers, or even a neutral wall can be a perfect background without extra props.


2. Vintage-Inspired Cozy Set-Up

Bring a small vintage rug, a couple of wooden crates, and neutral-toned blankets. This gives a cozy, timeless look while keeping your setup minimal and easy to transport.


3. Minimalist Bench or Chair

A simple wooden or rattan bench can be perfect for family shots. It gives structure to the session without overwhelming the background, and it's easy to carry.


4. Seasonal Touches

If you're photographing in the fall, add a few pumpkins or a plaid blanket. In the spring, a basket of fresh flowers or a light linen cloth can enhance the setting without making it feel overdone.


5. Neutral Backdrop for a Classic Look

If your booth is indoors or the surroundings are too busy, bring a neutral fabric or collapsible backdrop. See the example above where I used vintage table cloths.


6. Market-Themed Lifestyle Shots

If the market has beautiful stalls, string lights, or colorful produce, incorporate them into the background for a fun, authentic touch. Photos of families picking out flowers or walking through the market create a storytelling aspect that resonates with clients.

 

 

Enter a Heading


Offering on the spot minis, without pre booking them, is a great way to work with new clients. It also brings other customers up to your booth because they are interested in what you are doing. Having a solid plan and strategies in place to facilitate the mini sessions, chat with customers walking by, & capture emails to continue to market is key to being successful at the market.


My Minis at the Market Guide & Workbook walks you through every step to being successful at the market. It includes info on…


  • How to choose the right market for you
  • How to promote your minis beforehand to book on the spot
  • What marketing & branding materials to have on your table
  • What to say to customers when they come up to your booth
  • How to facilitate on the spot mini sessions
  • My email templates & editing flow for mini session galleries
  • How to up-sell your gallery after the market to increase sales
  • Customer funnels to create loyal clients
  • & more!


If you are struggling to book new clients, or looking to grow your photography business, the Minis at the Market guide is a great way to grow on a budget! Click the button below to download it now…

 

Download now