Studio vs. Outdoor Photoshoot: Things to Consider
So you are planning a photo session but you’re not quite sure what suits your needs the best? Today we are comparing studio vs. outdoor photography, what each type is better for, as well as the pros and cons to consider before your shoot. Before we start, let me ask you a question. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE for the images you’re looking to get? Is it for your social media, a website, your CV, or a professional headshot (if you are a freelance professional such as a model, dancer, or an actor?).
A STUDIO photoshoot is great for:
- Business portraits and headshots
- Modelling portfolios
- Dance Portfolios
- Actor Headshots
Middle: Sade Wyatt;
Right: Bradley Dixon
Get your clean cut business portraits, commercial headshots, body shots, ready for both print and digital presentation. A studio session is the best for these types of images as it will eliminate distracting backgrounds and changing weather conditions that might give your hair-do/make-up a hard time. How unreliable is English weather for example?! A studio is always dry and warm (with a smell of freshly made coffee, for me!). It’s the perfect way to get the images you envisioned, without stress or any interruptions.
You will want to make a great first impression, whether it’s an ‘about me’ page on your website, an audition, or a job application where your images will speak for you.
An OUTDOOR photoshoot is great for:
- Portrait session
- Dating photography
- Lifestyle social media content
- Fashion Editorial
- Dance portfolio
- Modelling portfolio
An outdoor photoshoot can be anywhere from an urban setting, a field/forest, to a beach.
Give your photos a character and mood, depending on the outdoor location you choose. That’s what I love the most about going out of the studio to shoot: little details influence the final images (wind, unexpected light rain, colours of the surroundings, you name it).
When planning an outdoor photoshoot, try to stay flexible and keep an open mind. As a photographer I’ve experienced numerous things go wrong during outdoor sessions: weather not going to a plan, unexpected crowds at shoot locations, etc. If it doesn’t go according to your plan, just embrace it – it’s YOUR time to shine at the end of the day! Have fun and make the most of it.
As you can see, there are quite a few similarities (regarding portfolios). There are no strict rules to what photos you should do in the studio or outdoors, it’s merely a direction on how to approach this creative decision.
When you’re hoping to get your images printed, I would strongly recommend to go for studio shots; less colours in the background, less distractions, fully controlled environment. If you want to update your online portfolio, let’s say on Instagram, go for a location, as bright, vibrant colours always do better on social media.
A quick breakdown of the things to consider: studio vs. outdoor photoshoot
Studio Photoshoot:
Pros:
– Controlled environment (light, background, weather);
– You can change your outfits more often;
– Make-up can be done on the spot;
Cons:
– Not as much of a variety of backdrop options;
– Financial implications of hiring/owning a photo studio;
Outdoor Photoshoot:
Pros:
– Add character to your images (sun, wind, reflections);
– You are NOT limited by the space;
– Easy to change locations (if you’re bored);
Cons:
– Unpredictable weather;
– Location can be crowded (especially in the city centre);
– You cannot change outfits as often;
– Where will your make-up be applied?
