Studio or Outdoor Family Photos? Here’s How to Choose What’s Best for You

When you're ready to update your family photos, one of the first decisions is location. Should you stay cozy in the studio or head outdoors for something a little more playful? Both are beautiful in their own way, but what works best really depends on your family, your season of life, and how much you want to take on. Around here, the goal is always the same: make it easy, make it enjoyable, and give you photos that feel like your family. Let’s break it down.

Why Studio Sessions Are a Favourite for Busy Families

No weather drama - Rain, wind, snow, heat...we don’t even worry about it. Studio sessions are weatherproof, cozy, and calm no matter what’s happening outside.

Everything is taken care of - I offer hair and makeup, a size-inclusive studio wardrobe, and a soft, neutral space that photographs beautifully. You literally just have to show up. No shopping, no outfit stress, no panicked runs to the mall the night before.

Perfect for babies, toddlers, and tired moms - The studio is warm, safe, and quiet. It’s ideal for little ones who need breaks or snacks (or just want to be held the whole time). And you won’t be sweating through your dress or swatting away bugs.

Timeless look - Neutral tones, soft lighting, and clean backgrounds mean your photos will look just as beautiful ten years from now as they do today.

Things to keep in mind: Studio sessions are intimate and slower-paced. If your kids are older and you’re hoping for a lot of running, twirling, or leaf-throwing moments, outdoor might give you more of that.

Why Some Families Love Outdoor Sessions

Space to play and explore - If your kids are full of energy and love being outside, we’ll embrace that. Outdoor sessions give us more room to move around, chase light, and capture those spontaneous little moments.

Seasonal beauty - From fall colours to wildflowers and golden hour light, nature adds texture and variety to your images.

Relaxed and candid - The outdoors can feel a little more casual, like a walk in the park, because it kind of is. Kids can run, laugh, and be themselves without worrying about staying in one spot.

Things to keep in mind: Weather, bugs, and nap schedules can throw us curveballs. And unlike the studio, outdoor sessions don’t include styling support unless we plan ahead for it.

Still not sure which location is right for your family? Ask yourself:

🌿 Does the idea of unpredictable weather make me nervous?
🌿 Is my child under the age of 2 and happiest in a calm, quiet space?
🌿 Do I want to avoid bugs, wind, or sweat in my photos?
🌿 Do I want a session that’s cozy, relaxed, and low-effort?
🌿 Would it be easier to have everything in one spot without travel or logistics?
🌿 Am I hoping for close-up, emotional moments more than wide, playful ones?

If you answered yes to most of these, a studio session will be your best friend.

🌿 Do I love golden light, tall grass, and seasonal backdrops?
🌿 Are my kids full of energy and happiest when they can run around?
🌿 Am I okay with a bit of weather unpredictability?
🌿 Do I want candid, movement-based moments more than still ones?
🌿 Is nature a big part of our family’s personality and story?
🌿 Does the idea of barefoot photos at the beach make me light up a little?

If these sound more like you, then outdoor photos might be the perfect fit.

No matter what you choose, I’ll make sure it’s easy.

We’ll chat through everything on a quick planning call, go over what you’re hoping for, and I’ll help you make the right call for your family. Whether that’s snuggled up in the studio or running barefoot through tall grass, you’ll walk away with images that feel real and full of joy.

Let’s make a plan that works for you. Contact me to book your call.