One of the first decisions you need to make when booking your family portraits is whether to hold the session indoors at our Nottingham studio, or outdoors on location. There is no single “right” answer—both options yield beautiful, timeless photographs. The best choice ultimately depends on your family’s personality, the ages of your children, and the aesthetic you are drawn to.
Studio vs. Outdoor at a Glance
Here is a quick breakdown of how the two experiences compare:
| Factor | Studio | Outdoor |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Not a factor. Warm and dry year-round. | Important. Subject to rain or extreme cold. |
| Lighting | Controlled, consistent, and highly flattering. | Natural, variable, and relies on the time of day. |
| Movement | More contained, focusing closely on faces. | More space to run, walk, and explore. |
| Outfit Changes | Very easy, with private changing areas available. | Depends heavily on the location’s facilities. |
| Young Children | Works well with shorter, structured sessions. | Incredibly useful for energetic children who love to run. |
Choose a Studio Session If…
You want a completely stress-free experience regarding the British weather! A studio session guarantees that your shoot will go ahead exactly as planned, regardless of rain, wind, or freezing temperatures outside.
Studio photography is also ideal if you prefer a very clean, classic, and minimalist aesthetic where the absolute focus is on your family’s faces and expressions. Without the distraction of trees or landscapes, the images are incredibly intimate. Finally, the studio is perfect if you plan on bringing multiple outfit changes, as you have a private, comfortable space to get ready.
Choose an Outdoor Session If…
You want wide open spaces, natural scenery, and a more lifestyle-focused gallery of images. Outdoor sessions are fantastic for families who love nature, or who want to incorporate a location that holds special meaning to them—like a favourite local woodland or park.
Outdoor shoots are particularly wonderful for older toddlers and children who possess boundless energy. Being outside allows them to run, jump, and play freely, resulting in incredibly dynamic, candid photographs full of movement and life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we do a mix of both studio and outdoor?
Depending on the length of the session you book, it is sometimes possible to shoot in the studio and then step outside for a few natural light portraits nearby. However, to get the absolute best results, we usually recommend committing to one style so we can fully settle into the environment without rushing.
What happens if we book an outdoor shoot and it rains?
If you have your heart set on an outdoor aesthetic and the forecast predicts heavy rain, we will happily discuss rescheduling your session to our next available dry date.
Which option is better for babies?
For very young babies (under six months), we almost always recommend the studio. It is warm, comfortable, draught-free, and provides a safe, clean environment for them to lay down.
