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MiniShoots vs Pixieset Studio Manager: Which Mini Session Platform is Right for You? (2026)

Q: Can I use both Pixieset and MiniShoots together?

Yes. Many photographers use Pixieset for galleries while using MiniShoots for mini session booking. This leverages each platform's strengths.

Q: Does Pixieset have an automated waitlist feature?

No. Pixieset requires manual waitlist tracking. MiniShoots offers automated waitlist with sequential queue management and SMS notifications when slots open.

Q: Does MiniShoots offer client galleries?

No. MiniShoots focuses on booking and management only. Use Pixieset, Pic-Time, or CloudSpot for galleries.

Q: Can I send SMS reminders with Pixieset?

No. Pixieset only supports email notifications. MiniShoots has built-in automated SMS via Twilio integration.

Q: Which platform is better for full-service photographers?

Pixieset is better for full-service photographers needing an all-in-one platform with galleries, website, and contracts. MiniShoots is better for mini session specialists prioritizing booking automation.

Q: Can I try MiniShoots before switching from Pixieset?

Yes. MiniShoots offers a free tier (up to 25 bookings/month) perfect for testing. Both platforms can run in parallel.

Q: How long does it take to switch from Pixieset to MiniShoots?

Most photographers complete the full migration in 1-2 hours. This includes setting up your first event, testing the booking flow, and updating your website links.

Q: Will I lose my client data when switching?

No. You can export your client contact list from Pixieset as a CSV file and maintain it separately. MiniShoots builds its own client database as bookings come in.

Honest comparison to help you choose the right platform

Quick Summary: Key Differences

Category	MiniShoots	Pixieset Studio Manager
Best For	High-volume mini session specialists	Full-service photographers needing all-in-one platform
Starting Price	Free (up to 25 bookings/month)	$12/month (Studio Manager)
Mini Session Focus	Purpose-built exclusively for mini sessions	Part of broader studio management suite
Automated Waitlist	✅ Sequential queue with 30-min windows	❌ Manual tracking required
SMS Notifications	✅ Automated via Twilio	❌ Email only
Transaction Fees	No platform fees	No platform fees on paid plans

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	MiniShoots	Pixieset Studio Manager
Mini Session Creator	✅ With add-on upsells	✅ Multi-date scheduling
Automated Waitlist	✅ Fair queue, SMS alerts	❌ Not available
SMS Notifications	✅ Automated	❌ Email only
Deposit/Balance	✅ Automated reminders	✅ Manual invoices
Payment Processing	Square, Apple/Google Pay	Stripe/PayPal, Buy Now Pay Later
Add-On Upsells	✅ During checkout	Limited
Mobile App	✅ iOS/Android	✅ iOS/Android
Contracts	✅ E-signatures	✅ E-signatures
Branding	Limited	✅ Full custom
Client Galleries	❌ Not included	✅ In Suite plans
Website Builder	❌ Not included	✅ In Suite plans

Key Feature Highlights

Waitlist: Pixieset requires manual tracking. MiniShoots offers automated queue with SMS alerts.

SMS: Pixieset is email-only. MiniShoots has automated SMS (98% open rates vs 20-30% email).

Payments: Both support deposits and balance collection. MiniShoots automates reminders via SMS/email.

Pricing Comparison

Annual Bookings	MiniShoots	Pixieset
Up to 150	$0/year (Free)	$144/year (Studio Manager)
500	$240/year	$144-336/year
1,500+	$480-720/year	$144-456/year

When to Choose Each Platform

Pixieset: All-in-one with galleries and website.

MiniShoots: High-volume mini sessions with automation.

Migration from Pixieset to MiniShoots

Migration typically takes 1-2 hours:

1Export Client Data

In Pixieset Studio Manager, go to Clients → Export to CSV.

2Create First Event

3Test Booking Flow

Complete a test booking. Verify emails, SMS notifications, and payment processing.

4Update Links

Replace Pixieset links on your website, Instagram, and Facebook.

5Notify Clients (Optional)

Email your list: "I've upgraded my booking! Book at [link] for instant SMS confirmations!"

Timeline: 1-2 hours for full migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use both Pixieset and MiniShoots together?

Yes. Use Pixieset for galleries and MiniShoots for booking.

Does Pixieset have an automated waitlist feature?

No. Pixieset requires manual tracking. MiniShoots offers automated waitlist with SMS alerts.

Does MiniShoots offer client galleries?

No. MiniShoots focuses on booking only. Use Pixieset, Pic-Time, or CloudSpot for galleries.

Which platform is cheaper for high-volume photographers?

For 500+ bookings/year, MiniShoots costs $240-720/year. Pixieset Studio Manager is $144/year but Suite plans are $336-660/year.

Can I send SMS reminders with Pixieset?

No. Pixieset is email-only. MiniShoots has automated SMS with 98% open rates.

Which platform is better for full-service photographers?

Pixieset for all-in-one with galleries. MiniShoots for mini session specialists.

Can I try MiniShoots before switching from Pixieset?

Yes. Free tier (25 bookings/month). Both can run in parallel.

How long does it take to switch from Pixieset to MiniShoots?

1-2 hours for setup, testing, and updating links.

Can I run both platforms in parallel during transition?

Yes. Many run both simultaneously. Free tier makes this risk-free.

Will I lose my client data when switching?

No. Export from Pixieset as CSV. MiniShoots builds its own database.