So you have decided to go ahead and have some Professional Family Portrait Photos taken.

But there is another decision to make. Do you go for a Location shoot out in the open air or to have them taken within the confineds of a well equipped Photo Studio ? There is a lot to be said about both options but really it all comes down to personal choice. So here are a few pointer that may help you pick which maybe best for you.

Family Portrait “Going on Location”

For the outside Location shoot, well the obvious comes to mind, it is very dependent on the weather. In favourable conditions having your family portrait done outside could make things very easy for your photographer .As shooting in natural light is what all good photographers are aiming for or would try to imitate should they be in a Studio. Even with overcast or Cloudy skies can give your images a more moody and unique feel. Again all this will be dependent on the day and down to a little luck on all sides.

However being outside also means there are more distractions. If you have a young family it may be difficult to keep the little ones focused on the photographer and not on any action or sounds happening all around. So take along something familiar ,like a favourite toy or such that either can keep them amused or the photographer can us to draw their attention. (This advise is also good for a studio shoot too.)

Then there is the setting itself. Whichever you choose  a park a field or similar area it sometimes helps to have a focal prop. Something like a park bench or large tree maybe a little fence or brickwork you can lean against. Not only will it make it easier to pose the family it could also make you feel more relaxed and less exposed out in front of the camera.

Family Portrait “Snapping Away In A Studio”

The one main drawback of a Studio Shoot is that you are limited to that one confined space. Most photographers will endeavour to make use of what little area they have. With different seating and the use of backdrops they may well be able to give you a lot more choice of poses and inspiration.

The great advantage of a Studio shoot of course is that it is a controlled environment. The lights can be moved just so. The seats can be arranged accordingly. All you need then do is to place the people.

But this also brings the problem of it being an artificial environment and for some young ones it could seem scary and uncomfortable. So  here comes the familiar toy again or something that they will feel more at home with.

Talking of which, another alternative some photographers may give is to come and take photos of your family in your own home. Provided you have the space this may make a happy medium. As this would make it a familiar surrounding for all your little posers concerned. A few photographers can even provide portable lighting.Which again will make their lives a little easier in getting the shots you require. With these it may take a little time in setting up and also need a bit more room to accommodate but the results could be well worth it.

At the end of the day it is your shoot and if you can give your photographer as much information as you can about what you want they will be more able to give you the desired result.

Because in the end you both want the same thing, great memorable family photos.