How do you know if you want a studio, on-location, or outside photography experience?
There are many ways to have professional pictures made, but they all start with location. So what are the pros and cons of the three types of photo locations? Keep in mind that there is no right way or wrong way to make your family pictures. You need to choose the style and location that fit your family and lifestyle best. Also keep in mind that different photographers specialize in different types and styles of photography. You want to find one that matches your vision.
Studio
Using a studio space takes away a lot of the uncertainty of your photo session. The weather will always cooperate. The lighting will be consistent. If you have little ones, it can be easier to keep them corralled and safe in a studio environment. It is heated and cooled, so you don't have to worry about freezing or having sweaty kids in all your pictures. It is a very consistent, safe bet.
Studio images for me tend to be a little more formal. The clothing is nicer. The editing is more painterly. I lean towards more dramatic lighting usually. It is a more classic look. You use backdrops with studio sessions and I tend to utilize more props. At Brown Bunny Photography, our studio sessions are very calm and laid back. I bring toys for the kids to play with and we always end the session with a lollipop (with parent approval, of course).
We do all of our maternity in the studio, as well as all newborn sessions, to keep mom and baby comfortable and safe. Milestone sessions, childhood sessions, and family sessions can be done either in the studio or outside.
Your home
Photography done in your home is referred to as Lifestyle Photography. It is a photojournalistic style of photography and can be used to tell the story of your day-to-day life. A benefit is that it documents your life right now as it is- house, furniture, and everything. The con side is that it documents every part of your life- the mess, the chaos, and everything. Most photographers will ask that you clean and de-clutter before they come to photograph. Sometimes that is difficult with young children and it can take away time that you just don't have. It also can be harder to keep all of your family members engaged for the entire session since they can be distracted at home.
Brown Bunny Photography does not do lifestyle photography. If you love this photojournalistic look, ask to see a full gallery from your photographer's sessions to make sure that their style matches your vision. Lifestyle sessions can be an interesting way to tell your family's story.
Outdoors
Outdoor sessions can be a lot of fun! They are great for active kids who like to run and play. Outdoor sessions are a fun mix of studio-like posing and lifestyle photojournalism. It can be the best of both worlds. Usually, the clothes are a little more casual. The editing style is more natural and, of course, we are using natural light.
The downside, of course, is the weather. We are fortunate in Tennessee to have long stretches of pretty nice weather, but there are no guarantees that the day of your scheduled session will be nice. We always have a backup date scheduled when we do outdoor sessions because you never know when a stray shower will pop up. The other downside would be bugs and creepy crawlies. Ticks are a problem in a lot of our parks, so we encourage parents to use appropriate bug spray on everyone.
We use several parks in the greater Middle Tennessee area, from Franklin to Brentwood to Nashville to Murfreesboro. We are also happy to join you in a location that is meaningful to your family. We love finding new and lovely places to photograph! Our outdoor sessions are always scheduled for that "Golden Hour" right before sunset so we get all that gorgeous light.
Have more questions?
We are happy to help! Give us a call or drop us an email with your questions. We would love to chat with you!
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