Studio vs. Interior vs. Outdoors:
Choosing the Perfect Photoshoot Location

The studio is the playground of high-fashion and minimalist portraiture. It is a controlled environment where the photographer has complete authority over the light and the elements.

• The Pros: You never have to worry about rain, wind, or harsh midday sun. Studios offer total privacy and a clean, distraction-free aesthetic that puts the focus entirely on the subject’s face, form, and wardrobe.
• The Cons: For some, the studio can feel a bit "stiff" or formal. In many locations, you are limited to solid-colored paper backdrops or simple textures. However, if you live in a major city with a developed photography infrastructure, studios can be incredibly elaborate, featuring magical, complicated set-ups that look like movie sets. These highly specialized spaces are usually found in large urban hubs.

Interior shoots—whether in a home, a boutique hotel, or a rented villa—provide a sense of intimacy and authenticity that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

• The Pros: This setting captures a "day in the life" feel. It allows for a relaxed, lifestyle vibe where you can interact with the space, making it perfect for branding, intimate couples, or family sessions.
• The Cons: Not every interior is a good fit for photography. You need high ceilings, neutral colors, and, most importantly, large windows for natural light.
• Pro advice: If your own home doesn't fit the bill, renting a beautiful Airbnb or hotel suite may be required. You must always ensure the host or management allows professional photoshoots, as many properties require permits or additional fees.

There is nothing quite like the raw beauty of the natural world. From rugged cliffs to soft sand dunes, the outdoors provides a sense of adventure and movement.

• The Pros: You get access to breathtaking scenery and the incomparable "Golden Hour" light. Elements like the wind can actually help your photos by adding life and movement to your hair and clothing.

• The Cons: You are entirely at the mercy of Mother Nature and the clock.

1. Time-Bound: Unlike a studio, you are strictly limited to the sun; if you miss that narrow window of perfect light, it’s gone. This means you have significantly fewer scheduling options.
2. Logistics: Reaching the most beautiful, secluded spots often requires a reliable vehicle and a bit of a hike, which can be difficult with multiple outfit changes or small children.

When deciding on your photoshoot location, ask yourself: Do I want the focus on my fashion and my face (Studio), my personality and a cozy atmosphere (Interior), or the epic beauty of the world (Outdoors)?
You should also look at the resources available in your current destination:

• If you are in your home city: Check if there are any new, creative studio set-ups available. Renting a high-end Airbnb in your own city might be expensive, so a studio could be more budget-friendly.

• If you are traveling: Embrace your surroundings! You can find a basic studio in almost any city, but you can’t replicate a specific beach or desert back home. For example, here in Cabo where I am based, I almost always advise my clients to go outdoors or choose a high-end interior photo session. While we have a few basic studios, they cannot compete with the dramatic coastline or world-class architecture of our local villas. If you are staying at a unique hotel, it is always worth asking if it is okay to have a shoot there to truly capture the essence of your trip.

No matter which setting you choose, the most important element of any photoshoot is how comfortable you feel in the space. Whether it’s the controlled glow of a studio, the intimacy of a beautiful room, or the wild energy of the coast, the right location is the one that allows your story to unfold naturally.

If you are still feeling stuck, reach out to your photographer. We can often help you weigh the logistics against your creative vision to ensure your final gallery is exactly what you dreamed of.

Published on 22nd of January 2026