Outdoors or studio? Which is best for you?

Whether I am photographing pets or humans, one of the first things we talk about is what kind of session my clients want. Some people prefer outdoor portraits and some studio and some like both. How do you decide? Let’s look at the pros and cons.

Outdoors

Pros-

The outdoors offers beautiful scenery, and it is easy to plan for multiple locations for a variety of images.

Outdoors can seem to be a more natural place for pets or kids. It is easy to run a bit to work off a little energy, and that can be helpful.

You can select a place that holds special memories for you and make that part of your images, adding to the meaning and specialness of the portraits

Cons-

Weather! It can be unpredictable and that may mean last minute rescheduling of the session. Winter can be too cold or you my have to wear a cot instead of that great outfit you had planned. likewise, Summer can be so hot that we all tired more easily, and it is hard to get dogs to not have their tongues way out in every picture..

Some pets and children are over stimulated outdoors and have trouble focusing where we would like them to in order to get a good image.

Studio-

Pros-

You can plan for a definite date and time because weather is not factor. On the studio we can always have good light and dry conditions.

It is easy to plan for changes of outfits when at the studio. A bathroom is also readily available. These things can sometimes be a big advantage in keeping everyone happy and things running smoothly.

Cons-

It is harder to get real variety in the studio. It is done primarily by changes in clothings, posing, and props. This can also give the photos a unity that some prefer.

Some dogs and some children are uncomfortable inside in a new environment.

A third option to consider is having sessions at your home.

Pros-

It is possible to use both the outdoors and indoors. The pros of this would be everyone’s familiarity with the environment and feeling safe and comfortable.

Everything is easily accessible, so if you forgot something or a strap breaks on a dress, it is easy to quickly get something and continue on.

You will have additional memories of a place that is special to you, your home.

Cons-

It will take me sometime to set up lighting in your home and furniture will need to be rearranged. You will have to clean and prepare your home to be photo ready.

Sometimes it is hard for kids Or even adults to take the session seriously when they are t home. You know your family best and will know if this is likely to be an issue.

So what type of session would you prefer? What fits your family’s needs best? I will work with you to figure out how we can best fit your needs so that you can have images you and your family will love and cherish.

The picture below was taken at the home of this girl and her dogs right here in Maryland.