How Long Should My Photoshoot Be?

Why choosing the right photoshoot length matters

The length of your photoshoot has a direct impact on both the experience and the final images. When there is enough time, the session feels calm and unhurried, and that relaxed feeling shows in the photos. I'm always happy to help you choose the right length for your shoot.

The ideal photoshoot duration depends on your needs, who will be photographed, and the style you're aiming for. It's important to keep in mind that booked time is usually difficult to extend during the session. Choosing the right amount of time in advance helps avoid unnecessary stress and disappointment.

General notes about timing and scheduling

Your photoshoot time is exactly the time you book. If you book a 30-minute session, you will have 30 minutes for the shoot. 🤎

You are usually asked to arrive about ten minutes before the scheduled start. The goal is to begin the photoshoot at the agreed time, so please arrive on time, but not significantly earlier. This is why reading the instructions beforehand is important.

If you know you'll need extra time to prepare, please let me know in advance. When possible, preparation time can sometimes be arranged by adjusting the schedule between sessions, but this cannot be guaranteed on the day of the shoot.

A helpful rule of thumb is to choose a session that's slightly longer rather than too short.

When a short photoshoot is enough

A short or mini photoshoot is ideal for updating profile photos or creating clean, simple images for LinkedIn, a CV, or professional use. It also works well for some simple social media content.

In a short session, we usually focus on one main look. There may be time for a quick outfit change, such as switching a shirt or blazer, but not for major style changes. The focus is on efficiency and clarity rather than variety.

Short sessions can also work well for toddler portraits or child photography when only the child is being photographed. For family photos or sessions involving children more generally, I usually recommend a longer session. The same applies to baby and newborn photography, where a calm and unhurried pace is especially important. 🤍

When a longer photoshoot is a better choice

A longer session is a good option if you want a more relaxed pace and greater flexibility. It's especially useful if you'd like multiple outfits, different backgrounds, or varied setups.

Longer sessions are also recommended if hair or makeup needs to be checked or adjusted during the shoot. When photographing children, I often suggest at least a one-hour session, especially if outfit changes or both individual and family photos are planned.

A longer shoot is also beneficial when photographing multiple people, capturing both individual portraits and group images, or creating several different variations. Not because you can't be in front of the camera, but because a calm, unhurried atmosphere always shows in the final photos.

What helps a photoshoot run smoothly

Good preparation makes a big difference. Reading the instructions in advance is important, as is sharing your wishes and expectations well before the shoot. Arriving on time according to the instructions helps ensure that more of the session can be spent on actual photography.

For any specific wishes or personal preferences related to the photoshoot, it's always helpful to share them as early as possible, and at the latest by the day before. This allows the session to be planned calmly and ensures a smooth experience.

If you consider yourself detail-oriented or know that you're quite particular about expressions and small nuances, it's usually a good idea to choose a slightly longer photoshoot. This allows for a calmer pace and more room to fine-tune things without feeling rushed. 🤎

Summary – how to choose the right length

If you're unsure which photoshoot length is right for you, feel free to ask. I'm happy to help you choose the most suitable package and duration.

A session that's too short can create stress and limit the ability to refine expressions or try the same idea more than once. A longer session allows for calm, flexibility, and often better results.

If you're not sure which photoshoot length suits you best, don't hesitate to ask – I'm happy to help. Contact us here. 💌