Should I choose a studio or outdoor setting for Las Vegas portraits?
Studio Photography in Las Vegas: Pros and Cons
Lighting Control and Privacy
When I shoot in the studio, I can control every aspect of the environment—light, temperature, background, even the music. That control means your portraits will be consistent and distraction-free, and you won’t have to worry about wind, harsh sunlight, or unpredictable conditions.
Studio sessions also offer more privacy. If you or your family feels a little awkward with people watching, the studio is a great place to get comfortable and focus on being yourselves in front of the camera.
Convenience and Indoor Comfort
Studio sessions are great for outfit changes, hair touch-ups, and taking a break between shots. Especially in summer, when outdoor temperatures in Las Vegas can hit 110°F, the comfort of an air-conditioned studio can make a big difference.
Limitations of Studio Backdrops
The tradeoff is that a studio doesn’t have the variety or natural settings you get outdoors. We can create a range of looks with backdrops and lighting, but if you’re looking for a session that feels connected to the landscape or reflects your favorite part of the city, outdoor might be better.
Outdoor Portraits in Las Vegas: Pros and Cons
Golden Hour and Natural Light
Outdoor sessions in Las Vegas have a completely different feel. If you love natural light, golden hour—the hour after sunrise or before sunset—gives us soft, flattering tones that look amazing in portraits. It’s one of my favorite times to shoot.
Scenic Locations Around Las Vegas
Las Vegas has a ton of great spots for portraits. Some of my go-to locations include Red Rock Canyon for its dramatic desert views, the dry lake beds for a minimalist look, and the Neon Museum or Fremont Street for something more urban. These locations give us texture, light, and atmosphere that you just can’t replicate indoors.
Challenges with Heat, Wind, and Crowds
Outdoor sessions do come with variables. Heat is the biggest one—especially from June to August. During those months, I usually recommend early morning sessions to stay ahead of the sun. Wind can also kick up dust, and bright midday sun creates harsh shadows. We’ll plan around those things, but they’re worth considering if you’re thinking about an outdoor shoot. Most locations are public, so we may run into people or cars in the background—we work with it, but it’s different than the control a studio gives.
How Las Vegas Weather Affects Photo Sessions
Best Months for Outdoor Photos
Spring and fall are ideal. From March to May and September to November, the weather is milder and skies are usually clear. I shoot outdoors year-round, but in winter, we aim for the warmest time of day. In summer, golden hour sessions—early morning or late evening—are your best bet to avoid extreme heat.
Time of Day for Ideal Lighting
Golden hour is the sweet spot. Light is soft and directional, which helps avoid shadows under eyes or blown highlights. Midday sun can be harsh here, so unless we’re shooting in shade or using modifiers, I’ll steer you away from that time.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Portrait Location
Desired Look and Style
If you want something timeless and refined, the studio might be your best fit. If you want a more relaxed vibe, natural movement, or backgrounds that show off your personality—or the beauty of the Vegas landscape—then outdoor is the way to go.
Comfort and Confidence
Some people are more confident outdoors, others prefer a quiet, private setting indoors. If you’re not sure, think about what would make you feel most comfortable during the session—we can always talk through it.
Time and Flexibility
Studio sessions are easier to schedule, since we don’t have to worry about weather or light. Outdoor shoots require more flexibility, but they can be worth it for the variety and energy they bring to your portraits.
Studio or Outdoor: Which Is Right for You?
This choice depends on what kind of images you want, what time of year you’re booking, and how you feel in different settings. I offer both studio and outdoor portrait sessions here in Las Vegas and can guide you through the best fit for your session.
If you already know your style or location preference, let’s lock it in. If not, I’m happy to chat and help you decide what works best for your schedule, your comfort, and the kind of images you want to walk away with.
