In Studio Engagement Session

Mar 13

When photographer stalk about “in studio” versus “on location,” it is just to designate whether images will be made in a controlled environment (studio, where all the lights, backdrops, v-flats, and other cool things photographers use) or in a selected location (an office conference room, a field at sunset, etc.).

Courtney and Brandon wanted an in studio session for their engagement pictures. This has its advantages:

What’s the weather? Don’t care - inside it’s comfortable and the light is always right. That also means any time of the day is time for photography!
Bathrooms. As in, yes, my studio has one. There is also space for hair and makeup. That also means a change of clothes can be accommodated,
Snacks. We are staying put so if someone needs a drink or a nibble, it is easily available.
Privacy. No one is watching except you and me (sometimes my team). Mind you, this is especially tru if this was a boudoir session - now, THAT’S a closed set!

It also has its limitations, if you wanted a specific background, like a wild mountain stream. And yes, it is a different “look” than images that may be shot outdoors and “natural light” is used (although studio strobes are also used outdoors).

In fact, a lot of people will say, “Oh, that photo looks ‘painterly,’” about an image made in studio and not understand why that is so. That is because when shooting in studio, the photographer has greater control over lighting patterns and aperture (think of that as sort of the camera’s depth of field) that more closely resembles paintings.

The good news is that you can be accommodated in whatever look you like. So, come on in, grab a drink - and let’s make your own masterpiece!

By the way, this session was also a sort of hybrid “engagement/family” session that included Brandon’s daughter. Do you know how happy it makes a child to be “included?” It’s huge! And it tells them, “We are a family!”