Indoor Sessions
Today we’re talking about indoor sessions. Yes, most of my portrait works happens outdoors. I love the sunshine, harnessing the light to how I want it, and being in nature in general. I don’t own a studio because I know I won’t use it that much. I’m happy for all of my friends that do studio work! There are a few times a year when we’re getting rain or cold that I definitely would love a studio to easily roll up to. Without regular access to an indoor space, we can still get creative in finding a location.
Here are my Top 5 Tips for On Location Indoor Sessions:
- Start with thinking about the vibe you want, picture it in your head, then look for inspiration online. There are studios for rent around town if that’s in your budget! I’m happy to help by making suggestions. You can also tap into your family and friends, see who has a house, a membership, or a place of business that would be willing to let you use it. (See pictures below for an example)
- Choose a location that gets good natural light. At this point we’re talking about on location, not a studio with regular equipment. If it’s a regular place of business that’s not typically a studio then they might give permission for the session, but they’re typically not going to want you setting up a bunch of light stands that people can trip on.
- Make sure the location offers multiple options for backgrounds or at least some combos where you can go from standing to sitting. We’d like some variety!
- Double check that you will have permission and/or access to all areas in advance. Often times the venue is giving permission for an off peak or closed time so if we need an elevator pass, if certain floors or areas are closed off without a security guard or key, these are important to know.
- Check out the local parking situation in advance. This ties in to those off peak and closed times I mentioned. A parking lot could be closed to the public during off peak times if you don’t have an employee pass. And if their parking situation includes a longer walk and you have small children that might influence whether you want to pack the stroller along or not.
Extended Family Indoor Session
The indoor session can be particularly helpful in bad weather and for the extended family with a wide range of ages. We don’t have to worry about any of our older family members or babies tripping over uneven terrain. My wonderful Rourke extended family is here to show you how to rock a session at a place of business! Bonus that they’re utilizing the top 5 tips for on location indoor sessions!
On this cold, windy day they were still able to snag a few bonus photographs on the roof. It’s icing on the cake when we have the option! Recognize any of these family members? I photographed Devin and Charlie’s wedding back in 2018! You can see some kind words from Devin about their wedding day here: https://amandapomillaphotography.com/best-of-weddings/
