Your family photos are an investment. Not only are you paying for session time, but you are also picking out outfits, scheduling haircuts, and devoting your precious free time to this experience. So, you want to make sure you get portraits worth all the effort! If you are currently considering booking your session, the very first thing you need to decide is whether you want to book a studio session or an outdoor session. There are benefits for both options, especially when you are planning pictures with younger kids. As an Atlanta family photographer, I adore working with my clients to give them portraits that perfectly represent their crew. Here is what to consider when you are choosing studio vs outdoor photography.
Studios are going to put you within a controlled environment for your photos. Because you can adjust nearly every setting within this space, it can make it easier to plan. Here’s why so many people prefer this option:
Lighting: When you are inside a studio, you are going to have total control over the lighting situation, which will give you the freedom to plan your session at any time of day. This can be a huge perk when you are dealing with sensitive things like naptime or bedtime.
Weather: We all know Atlanta can get hot. Luckily, my studio has AC! This can also mean you don’t have to constantly look at the schedule and stress over a rain cloud and reschedule everyone. Not to mention the humid hair frizz or wind blown hair.
Privacy: If you don’t feel like having people watch your session, a studio is the perfect option! It will also minimize distractions so you can just focus on holding that smile.
Amenities: Need a bathroom? How about a changing room? Maybe a quiet spot to nurse? A studio is going to have all that plus more!

Meanwhile, the outdoors is going to give you those warm, golden pictures you just can’t wait to frame. While you might lose some of the convenience, here is some of what you’ll gain:
Golden hour lighting: Truly, there is nothing that can beat this time of day. When you get the timing of the sun right, it can eliminate a lot of the harshness you’ll find in studio lighting.
Ability to move around: There is something so magical about those action shots where your child is running around and exploring the world with you by their side!
Backdrops: You can get way more variation outside. From urban backdrops to flower fields, we have no shortage of spots to use around the Atlanta suburbs.
Spontaneity: Nothing about parenthood is predictable. Outdoor sessions let you embrace that, capturing moments you couldn’t get any other way!

So, which one should you choose? It really just comes down to your preference. Think about what you want from your session, and go with the one you think will be best for your crew.
Choose a studio session if you want to stick to a tight schedule, prefer convenience and like a polished setting for perfect family photos.
Choose an outdoor session if you prefer action shots, scenic vibes and want to capture all the candid moments of childhood.
If you have a choice between studio vs outdoor photography for your family, I really hope this guide helped you out! No matter what you choose, I just know you are going to have gorgeous pics you’ll treasure for years to come.
Are you still looking for the right photographer to take those pictures? Then I would love to chat! As an Atlanta family photographer, I adore working alongside parents to make sure they can cherish each and every milestone. From staged studio sessions to sunny outdoor photos, I can be there through it all! I would love to have a conversation and tell you all about my style so you can decide if we’re a match. Hope to chat soon!