Studio or outdoor pet photo shoot- which one works best for you?
/So you’re considering a pet and family photo shoot but can't quite decide which style is better for you?
Studio and outdoor photography portraits can both create beautiful images. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Here are my thoughts to help you pick the right setting for your photo shoot.
You’ll notice that I’m a little biased since I love doing outdoor pet and family shoots around the Toronto area and I’m a big fan of portraits that include a bit of environmental interest. However there’s a place for studio photography too.!
Pros and cons of studio photography for your pet and family photo shoot.
Studio photography is of course in an indoor space. It’s a good choice for more traditional pet and family portraits. The studio provides a perfect space for going through different poses and controlled set ups.
If you’re looking for more staged and formal photos - the studio may be right for you.
The minimalist aesthetic is appealing to some styles
Studio photography is perfect if you cannot be flexible with your date due to unforeseen weather conditions.
However the variety of backdrop options is somewhat restricted, limiting the diversity of the photos you will get from your session.
Pros and Cons of an outdoor photo shoot with your pet and family.
They look so relaxed during their photo shoot in this pretty outdoor location!
Locations can be anywhere from an urban setting, a field, a forest, a beach or lovely garden. It may be a location that resonates with your family and therefore makes your portraits more meaningful. It could even be in your backyard. We have so many options to enjoy in Toronto - there’s never a lack of gorgeous locations to choose from for your outdoor photo shoot!
Outdoor photography sessions allow the photographer to take advantage of the natural environment and all of its elements. The photographer can use the natural light, colours, textures, and landscapes to create stunning portraits.
Outdoor photography is better suited for capturing beautiful photos in a more natural setting. It gives your photos a unique character and mood, depending on the outdoor location you choose. The light, the colours, the seasons are constantly changing and so not one picture taken outdoors will ever be the same.
The surroundings can be spectacular and panoramic or very simple depending on what type of photos you want and which month or season you are in.
That’s what I love about outdoor photo sessions, It’s the little details that make for a wonderful final image - think about lovely Fall colours, or interesting architecture to showcase your pet and family. Perhaps the beach is your pet’s favourite place and you would like to have memories of him or her playing there. I’ve had clients wanting to showcase the Toronto skyline. Spring and autumn photo shoots are popular for the stunning backdrops bursting in colours.
I believe that outdoor photo shoots are a better place for your dogs because they feel more comfortable than in a strange indoor environment. This allows us to create photographs that are true to life and bring out the unique character of your dog. I find that it’s outdoors where everyone really relaxes and true personalities are captured.
I prefer outdoors for more candid images. If you are not after the “say cheese" type of photos, this is definitely the type of the photo shoot you should consider.
However, bear in mind that outdoor photo shoots usually take slightly longer than studio shoots. It takes time to walk to the location, and then spend time walking around as we look for a variety of interesting spots to shoot. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing - think of it as a little adventure with your dog!
Some outdoor locations offer great architectural elements to add some interest and uniqueness to your pet and family photo shoot
I hope that this information will help you pick the perfect style and location for your pet and family photo shoot.
But here are a couple more things to think about to help you decide:
In looking at various portfolios, what kind of photography are you drawn to? You’ll find lots of different styles of photography and once you’ve found something you like you can search for photographers in your area who create that style.
If you are considering investing in prints or wall art, think about what style of photography will complement the decor in your home best?
For example, would a photograph of your pet and family in a park with a warm autumn backdrop complement your décor compared with a posed studio portrait against a solid coloured background?
You may also be interested in:
What happens at your Toronto outdoor dog photo shoot
And this may help you in deciding on the best pet photographer for you and your family:
How to choose the right pet photographer
I hope that you will find the above information helpful and if you need any further assistance in choosing the perfect type of photo shoot for your pet and family please do not hesitate to contact me.
Simply click the button below to set up a complimentary consultation or drop me a quick email and I’ll be sure to respond as soon a possible!
This is part of blog circle where we discuss all things related to pets and pet photography. Fellow photographer Nicole Hrustyk of Pawtraits by Nicole shares her dog journey, as part of her getting to know me series. You can also click the link at the bottom of her post to view the next photographers post and keep clicking until you get back here! Happy reading.
Terri is a Toronto based Master Photographer specializing on-location outdoor pet photography including family and couples sessions with their beloved pets. Her clients love that not only do they get digital photos from their session but a gift credit to put towards artwork to display in their home, or albums and desk displays to showcase their favourite photos.
Terri serves the Greater Toronto Area | Richmond Hill | Etobicoke | Scarborough | Markham | Vaughan | Thornhill | Brampton | Mississauga | North York | Woodbridge and beyond.
