When most people think about family photos, they picture a beautiful outdoor location, golden sunlight, and smiling faces. And while outdoor sessions can be beautiful, summer in Louisiana has a way of changing even the best-laid plans.
Between the heat, humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and mosquitoes, many families are surprised to learn that a studio session can actually provide a more comfortable experience and more consistent results. If you’re trying to decide between a studio session and an outdoor session this summer, here are five reasons I find that more families are choosing the studio.
1. You Don’t Have to Worry About the Louisiana Heat
This one is a given! Louisiana summers are no joke. By the time many outdoor sessions begin, temperatures can still be hovering in the 90s with humidity levels that make it feel even hotter.
For parents, that often means:
- Sweaty kids and parents
- Flushed faces
- Frizzy hair
- Melting makeup
- Shorter attention spans
In a climate-controlled studio, everyone stays comfortable, which often leads to happier expressions and a more enjoyable experience from start to finish.
2. Young Children Tend to Last Longer
As a family photographer, I’ve learned that children do their best when they’re comfortable.
When little ones are overheating, getting bitten by mosquitoes, or feeling overwhelmed by the weather, it’s harder for them to stay engaged. Let’s be honest… the grown-ups, too. A studio environment removes many of those distractions.
Parents are often surprised by how relaxed their children become when they’re not battling the elements. And when children are comfortable, genuine smiles come much easier.
3. Your Hair, Makeup, and Wardrobe Stay Intact
You’ve spent time choosing outfits. Maybe you’ve scheduled professional hair and makeup. The last thing you want is for Louisiana humidity to undo all of that before we’ve even started.
One of the biggest advantages of a studio session is consistency. There are no surprise rain showers, strong winds, or excessive heat working against you. Worst case would be getting from the car to the studio during a rain storm, and that we can work with.
Everything looks exactly as intended, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than fixing flyaways and blotting sweat.
4. Studio Sessions Offer Predictable Results
Outdoor sessions can be beautiful, but they come with variables we can’t control.
Weather changes. Cloud cover shifts. Storms pop up unexpectedly.
A studio session provides a controlled environment where lighting remains consistent and comfortable throughout your session. That means we can focus entirely on creating meaningful images rather than adjusting to changing conditions.
For many families, especially those coordinating multiple schedules, that peace of mind is invaluable.
5. Grandparents and Multi-Generational Families Are More Comfortable
Many of the families I photograph include grandparents, and comfort matters. Standing outdoors in extreme heat isn’t ideal for everyone. A studio setting allows grandparents, young children, and family members of all ages to participate comfortably.
The result is often a more relaxed experience and images that focus on connection rather than endurance.
But What If I Love the Outdoor Look?
You don’t have to choose one forever. Both studio and outdoor sessions have their place.
Outdoor sessions can create beautiful, natural images that showcase the scenery and personality of your family. I am particularly a fan of outdoor sessions with beautiful rustic and natural landscapes that add a certain something to the final result. Studio sessions provide comfort, consistency, and a timeless look that never goes out of style.
The right choice depends on your family’s preferences, the season, and the experience you want to create.
My Recommendation for Summer Family Photos in Louisiana
If you’re scheduling family photos between June and September, don’t automatically assume an outdoor session is your only option. Many families are pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoy the comfort and flexibility of a studio session.
The goal isn’t simply to create beautiful photographs. The goal is to create an experience that allows your family to relax, connect, and enjoy being together. Because years from now, your family won’t remember how hot it was outside. They’ll remember the photographs.
Looking for a Family Photographer in the New Orleans Area?
If you’re considering family photos this summer and aren’t sure whether a studio session or outdoor session is the best fit, I’d love to help.
Every family is different, and together we’ll choose the setting that best reflects your family and the story you want your photographs to tell.
Contact Kimarie Photography to schedule a consultation and start planning your session.
