family

Outdoor vs. Studio: Which Family Portrait Setting Is Right for You?

June 19, 2025

Mother and father holding newborn baby, mother smiling up and father leaning down to kiss the baby's head.

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Mother and father holding newborn baby, mother smiling up and father leaning down to kiss the baby's head.
Brother and sister sitting in parents lap, smiling and playing together, under a cherry tree in full bloom in a garden surrounded by a white picket fence.

OUTDOOR VS STUDIO FAMILY PHOTOS

When we’re planning your family’s next portrait session, one of the first decisions we’ll make together is where it will take place; At Fieldstone Studio, we offer two beautiful options: peaceful outdoor sessions filled with movement and natural light, or timeless studio sessions designed for calm and connection.

Each setting offers something special — and the best choice is the one that fits your family’s personality, lifestyle, and the kind of artwork you’re dreaming of for your home.

Let’s explore the experience of both.

Why Choose an Outdoor Session?

Outdoor sessions offer the magic of natural light, fresh air, and timeless surroundings. Whether we’re exploring the blooming paths of an ethereal garden or strolling the manicured grounds of a historic New England estate, the environment becomes part of your family’s story — adding depth, texture, and elegance to every frame.

Outdoor sessions are ideal for families who:

  • Love candid, playful moments
  • Want a seasonal or scenic backdrop (think autumn foliage, spring wildflowers, or coastal summer tones)
  • Have children who feel most comfortable with space to move and play

Before your session, I hand-deliver carefully selected wardrobe pieces to your home, ensuring you’re styled beautifully and effortlessly — no last-minute shopping or guesswork required. On session day, you’ll simply arrive dressed and ready to enjoy time together.

Outdoor portraits feel alive — they’re full of motion, light, and the quiet beauty of nature. They’re perfect for creating artwork that reflects the warmth and movement of your family as you are, right now.

Family in a floral filled, ethereal garden with toddler on dad's shoulders and older siblings gathered around.
Dad and pregnant mom leaning in snuggling two year old boy with a horse in a pasture during golden hour light.
Mom and daughter in a light-filled ethereal garden, little girl counting petals and putting into Mom's hand.
Dad and pregnant mom embracing in a lavender field with toddler daughter in their lap.
Toddler boy embracing mom's baby bump in an open field.
Two young sisters holding hands and exploring a garden beneath flowering cherry trees.

Why Choose a Studio Session?

Studio sessions offer a peaceful, intimate space where every detail is curated for comfort and calm. With soft lighting, neutral tones, and a quiet environment, the focus is entirely on your family’s connection.

Studio sessions are ideal for families who:

  • Prefer a classic, timeless look
  • Have young babies or toddlers who thrive in a cozy, familiar setting
  • Want to avoid weather unpredictability or seasonal scheduling

These sessions are gentle and relaxed, with plenty of time for quiet cuddles, natural smiles, and real connection. Because the setting is minimal and distraction-free, studio portraits work especially well when your goal is heirloom artwork or a signature wall gallery.

Studio sessions allow us to create art that is calm, classic, and deeply meaningful.

Two year old brother laying down next to newborn baby sister in a wicker basket, giving soft snuggles.
Mom smiling and holding baby girl in baptism gown, while older brother is leaning in to kiss his mommy.
Dad and pregnant mother embracing, with dad's hand on baby bump.
mother in blue dress holding newborn wrapped in white muslin wrap, standing in front of a blue hand painted backdrop
Dad holding and smiling down at newborn son
Mom and dad embrace and kiss while holding newborn baby.

Still Not Sure? Ask Yourself This:

As you’re deciding between outdoor vs. studio family photos, here are a few helpful questions:

  • Do you love the idea of a natural backdrop, or do you prefer a clean and simple space?
  • Will your children feel more at ease with open space to play, or in a quiet, cozy room?
  • Are you drawn to the tones of a specific season, or a timeless look you can display all year?
  • Where do you plan to display your finished portraits — in a gallery wall, an heirloom album, or something else?

Let’s Find the Setting That Fits Your Family Best

No matter which direction you choose, your session will be calm, connected, and beautifully styled. My full-service process takes care of every detail — so you can focus on simply being present with the people you love most.

If you’re still not sure which option is right for your family, I’d love to help guide you. Reach out today and we’ll start with a discovery call to talk about your vision and how I can help you bring it to life.

👉 Let’s Begin Your Portrait Experience »

👉 Explore How to Style Your Wardrobe for Family Portraits »

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BEHIND THE LENS

ABOUT Ashley

Lover of antiques and rustic European charm. Middle sister. Dog snuggler. Collector of moments and old stories. Inspired by quiet mornings, soft light, and the magic of everyday motherhood.

I’m Ashley—a photographer, a mother, and someone who deeply understands the swirl of emotions that come with welcoming a new baby.

I’ve spent years capturing motherhood and the early days of family life, but I’ve also lived it. I know how overwhelming it can be. The tender chaos. The joy. The fatigue. The quiet, sacred beauty in the everyday.

This studio was born out of a desire to serve mothers the way I wish I had been served—to create a calm, nurturing space where you feel seen, cared for, and never rushed. My approach is gentle and intentional, with every detail handled so you can simply be present.

Because these moments matter—and I’m here to help you hold onto them.

                     for the hospital or birth center

for the hospital or birth center

what to pack

Having a go-bag ready and at arm’s reach once you’re in the likely range of going into labor can make your rush to the hospital or birth center that much less stressful. It can take the pressure off your already flooded mind and give you peace of mind that this one piece of preparing for your little one is done and ready. However, deciding what to pack for the hospital or birth center can be confusing.

This free guide will walk you through everything you should consider packing in your go-bag, with tons of helpful tips!

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