Studio vs. Outdoor Photo Sessions in Denver: Choosing the Perfect Location

When planning photo sessions in Denver, a big decision is deciding to have a studio or outdoor session. Both options offer advantages and challenges.  The right choice depends on your vision, the time of year, and practical considerations—especially in a place like Denver, where the climate can be unpredictable.

To help you make the best choice, let’s explore the pros and cons of indoor and outdoor photo sessions, factoring in Denver’s seasons, weather, lighting, and other considerations that can impact your session.

Studio- Photo Sessions: Consistency, Comfort & Beauty

Studio photography—especially in my natural-light studio—offers a balance of soft, flattering light, variety in backdrops, and a distraction-free environment.  The focus remains on you and your family with a cleaner backdrop. Most clients think they want outdoor sessions because of the Colorado scenery, but theres more to consider.  I won’t try to convince you one way or the other.  I do about 50/50 each year.  If you’re planning on displaying these portraits in your home, sometimes less is more when it comes to the background. A simple setting keeps the attention where it belongs—on you.

Pros of Studio Photography Sessions in Denver:

• Weather-Proof – No need to worry about sudden weather changes, which is an advantage for a photo session in Denver.  Sunny mornings can quickly turn into a snowstorm.
• Gorgeous Natural Light – My studio is designed to maximize the beauty of soft, natural light—so you get the glow of an outdoor session without contrast or overexposure.
• Backdrop Variety Without Distractions – A studio setting offers multiple backdrop options, from white walls to textured settings that add depth while keeping the focus on you rather than the background.
• Wardrobe Flexibility – Indoor shoots make outfit changes easy. No need to worry about dressing for the season, the studio is set to a balmy 71 degrees.
• Timeless Aesthetic for Wall Art – If you want portraits that feel high-end and cohesive in your home, an indoor session offers a controlled environment.  This ensures your images blend beautifully with your home décor.
• An Empowering Experience – My studio is designed to make you feel comfortable,  and seen. Whether it’s a maternity, branding, or boudoir session, my goal is for you to leave feeling beautiful—because you are.

Cons of Indoor Photo Sessions in Denver:

• No Grand Landscapes – While the studio offers a variety of settings, it does not include the mountain scenery so many people envision for a photo session in Denver.  (If this is what you’re looking for, I offer plenty of iconic Colorado outdoor session location options as well.)
• Less Space for Running & Playing – If you’re envisioning movement-filled family portraits, an outdoor location may provide more room to roam.

Outdoor- Photo Sessions: Natural Beauty & Dynamic Backdrops

Outdoor photography in Denver and the surrounding areas offers incredible scenery. Whether it’s the mountains, aspens, or cityscapes. It’s important to consider how much of the landscape you truly want in your portraits. If the goal is to capture your family’s connection, a studio background might actually work better.

Pros of Outdoor Denver Photo Sessions:

• Breathtaking, Natural Backdrops – Outdoor locations for Denver photo sessions are endless and provide a stunning setting that adds variety to your photos.
• Natural Light – Soft morning or golden-hour lighting can create a magical, glow, but it also requires precise timing.
• Seasonal Variety – Each season in Denver offers something unique—greenery in summer, fall foliage, winter wonderlands, and blooming florals in spring.
• Space for Movement – If you want lifestyle-style photography, outdoor sessions offer the freedom to walk, run, dance, or interact naturally.Personalized Locations – Choosing a meaningful location—like your favorite hiking trail, a local park, or an urban downtown spot—adds a personal touch to your session.

Cons of Outdoor Photo Sessions:

• Unpredictable Weather – Denver’s climate can be tricky to say the least. A summer evening can be perfect, but sudden storms are definitely possible. Winters can be mild one day and freezing rain the next. If you aren’t one of the 300k followers of Kody the Weather Guy, he’ll be you new bff for keeping a pulse on the weather here.
• Timing is Crucial – Outdoor lighting is best during golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset). This limits scheduling flexibility, unlike a studio session that can happen at any time of day.
• Busy Backgrounds Can Distract – While scenic landscapes are beautiful, they can sometimes take away from the intimacy and emotion of your portraits. If you want a clean, timeless look that keeps the focus on your family, a studio session might be the better choice.

 

Seasonal Considerations for Photo Sessions in Denver

Winter (December – February):

• Studio sessions are often preferable due to cold temperatures and bare tree branches.
• Outdoor winter sessions can be magical, especially with snow-covered trees or mountain backdrops.  Keep in mind, this rquires careful wardrobe planning to stay warm and comfortable.

Spring (March – May):

• The weather is highly variable—some days are warm and sunny, while others bring late-season snow.
• Outdoor shoots can be just breathtaking with blooming trees and flowers, if Denver’s weather decides to behave.

Summer (June – August):

• Outdoor sessions work well but are best scheduled during early morning or evening to avoid harsh midday sun and heat.
• Studio sessions are great for avoiding high temperatures, potential afternoon thunderstorms and offer flexibility on the time of day you book your session.

Fall (September – November):

• The best times for outdoor sessions in Colorado! The changing leaves create a stunning backdrop, and the weather is often mild.
• Book early, as autumn is a popular season for outdoor sessions.

Which Option is Best for You?

Choosing between indoor and outdoor photography sessions in Denver specifically, comes down to your vision, comfort, and the type of session you’re planning.

👉 Choose Indoor If:

• You want a controlled, timeless, and polished look.
• You’re doing a newborn session where temperature and comfort are key.
• You prefer a flexible schedule without worrying about time + weather.
• You’re opting for multiple outfit changes and want privacy.
• You want portraits designed to complement your home décor without busy backgrounds.

👉 Choose Outdoor If:

• You love natural light and scenic backdrops.
• You’re envisioning a playful, movement-filled organic session.
• You want to embrace the seasonal beauty of Colorado.
• You don’t mind weather variations.  My biggest piece of advice is embrace the wind and lean into the emotive feel it adds to your images.

Final Thoughts

No matter which setting you choose, your photo session in Denver should reflect your personality, comfort, and style. Both indoor and outdoor sessions offer incredible opportunities to capture authentic, beautiful moments.

If you’re still unsure, let’s chat! I can help you pick the perfect setting for your vision—whether that’s my gorgeous natural-light studio or a breathtaking Colorado landscape. Your memories deserve to be captured in a way that feels just right for you. ✨