Indoor vs. Outdoor Headshots

Indoor vs. Outdoor Headshot: Which is Right for You?

This is a question I hear often, and the answer, as with most things, is "it depends."

Even during the summer, I lean towards outdoor headshots (okay maybe not during the "heat dome" olympics that we find ourself in on the East Coast.) Outdoor sessions allow for greater creativity and provide unique backgrounds that can truly reflect a client's personality or profession. To combat the summer heat and bright sun, I typically scout locations for shade and introduce my own light using a portable strobe. This helps reduce squinting and elevates the shot from a simple cell phone snapshot to a professional headshot.

For Future Clients: Making Your Decision

If you're on the fence about an indoor versus outdoor headshot, here are some key points to consider.

Purpose and Impression:

• How will you use your headshot? What industry are you in, and what impression do you want to convey? What tone are you trying to set?
• Indoor headshots often appear more polished and minimize distractions, making them ideal for traditional corporations and law firms, especially if your employer requires a consistent, conservative look.
• Outdoor headshots tend to project a more relaxed and approachable vibe. The varied backdrops allow for a richer story than a plain, studio color.

Photographer's Portfolio:

• When choosing a photographer, carefully review their outdoor headshot portfolio. Do you like the environments they use? How do they compare to their studio backdrops?
• If you're still unsure, consider a photographer who offers both indoor and outdoor options within the same session. You might thank yourself later when you realize you need different looks!