Deciding between studio vs outdoor photography can feel surprisingly overwhelming, especially when both options look beautiful in different ways! I see this all the time. You scroll through photos, love everything, and suddenly think… ok, but what actually fits me?
The truth is, this is not a right or wrong decision. It’s about the experience you want and the kind of photos you want to live with long term. Think of this as choosing a mood, not choosing a winner!
Table of Contents
- Studio vs Outdoor At A Glance
- Studio Photography: Calm, Clean, and Intentional
- Outdoor Photography: Natural, Emotional, and Lived In
- How To Choose What Fits You Best
- FAQs
- I’ve Got You!
Studio vs Outdoor at a Glance
Here’s a simple way to think about studio photography vs outdoor photography before we go into more detail.
Studio sessions usually feel:
- Calm and predictable
- Minimal and clean
- Very focused on you
Outdoor sessions usually feel:
- More free flowing
- Shaped by nature or the city
- A little more spontaneous
Neither one is better. They just tell the story differently!
Studio Photography: Calm, Clean, and Intentional
A studio session is all about control and comfort. When you compare a studio photoshoot vs an outdoor photoshoot, the studio gives you consistency. The light is controlled and flattering. The temperature is comfortable. There’s privacy, a bathroom, and space to breathe and take breaks when you need them.
The backgrounds are simple, which means nothing pulls attention away from you. Your expressions, your connection, and your details all become the focus. This is what people usually mean when they talk about a studio photography aesthetic. It’s clean, soft, and timeless.
Studio sessions are perfect if you:
- Love minimal and polished images
- Want a relaxed and predictable environment
- Feel more comfortable without people around
- Like an editorial or classic look
One thing people often worry about is location. My studio is in La Brea, right in Mid City, which makes it pretty central and easy to get to from most parts of LA. There is a small studio fee, but you’re paying for comfort, privacy, and not having to worry about weather or crowds.
As a studio photographer in LA, I see how much that peace of mind matters once you’re actually in the moment!
Outdoor Photography: Natural, Emotional, and Free Flowing
Outdoor sessions are shaped by the world around you. The lighting changes throughout the day, the wind moves things, and people laugh more freely. This is where the outdoor photography aesthetic really shines!
Instead of a blank backdrop, you get texture. Trees, ocean air, city streets, open skies. The environment becomes part of the story. Outdoor sessions often feel more documentary, like moments unfolding rather than being created.
An outdoor photoshoot is perfect if you:
- Love movement and candid moments
- Feel inspired by nature or urban spaces
- Want photos that feel relaxed and nostalgic
- Don’t mind a little unpredictability!
One thing to keep in mind with outdoor sessions is logistics. Many parks and locations around LA require a photography permit, so that’s something you’d need to take care of ahead of time.
And since we’re sharing these public spaces with the world, there will usually be other people around too. It’s all very manageable, but it’s worth knowing so the day feels smooth and you know what to expect.
Which Photoshoot Style Is Right For Me?
If you’re stuck choosing between studio and outdoor photography, here are a few questions to ask yourself, which can help clarify things fast:
- Light preference: Do you like soft and consistent or changing and natural?
- Comfort: Do you want a controlled space, or are you ok adapting?
- Aesthetic: Clean and minimal, or textured and atmospheric?
- Energy level: Calm and slow, or more movement and exploration?
- Timing: The studio works anytime, and outdoor sessions depend on the season and the time of day.
Honestly, the right answer is simply the option that feels easiest when you picture yourself actually being there!
FAQs
Q: Can I combine studio and outdoor photos in one session?
A: Definitely! Some people love starting in the studio and ending outdoors (or the other way around). It gives you variety without committing to just one look.
Q: What if I do not know my style yet?
A: That’s totally normal. Most people don’t know until we talk it through! I’ll help you figure it out based on what you’re drawn to, not what you think you should choose.
Q: Is one option less stressful than the other?
A: Studio sessions are usually calmer. Outdoor sessions can feel more playful, but they also depend on the weather and timing. Neither has to feel stressful with the right planning!
Whichever You Choose, I’ve Got You
At the end of the day, this choice is about how you want to feel during your session and how you want your photos to feel when you look back at them years from now. Whether that’s calm and minimal or natural and full of movement, both styles can be really beautiful when they fit you!
If you’re ready to plan something that feels natural, comfortable, and true to your vibe, I’d love to help you figure out the best direction and bring it to life. Reach out whenever you’re ready!
