In the middle of a headshot session, some students requested to do their headshots outside, rather than on the neutral backdrop provided. They thought the the white/gray looked too much like a mugshot and they wanted to “differentiate” themselves by shooting outdoors. I kept my thoughts quiet (I disagreed on the mugshot sentiment) and obliged, later running a poll on Instagram to see what you all thought about this. You can see the side-by-side photo results below (one on neutral, the other outdoors).
First off, we can’t really go wrong with two good-looking subjects like this. But the questions remains, which setup is better? The indoor shots were done with a beauty dish and reflector setup in clamshell format. The outdoors were shot in natural light (subject back to the sun, adjusted levels in Lightroom).
The answers online were mixed. My answer to which is better? It depends on what you’re going for:
Neutral:
Best for commercial and corporate clients, bulk headshot sessions (uniformity), certain professions.
Extremely versatile: can go on websites, bio’s, marketing collateral and it was always blend well with the vibe. Doesn’t become dated too quickly.
Easier logistics: this setup works easily for the photographer and the client. No weather concerns and can set up in a relatively small space.
Very “clean” look. Widely considered more “professional” though that partly depends on the skill of the photographer.
Natural:
Best for individuals or company with a brand that is better reflected with an outdoor portrait.
Somewhat versatile: may not work within the context of a larger company trying to create cohesion. May not blend well on some marketing collateral.
Logistics: weather can be a huge problem. Humidity affects hair. Rain delays. Wind. Etc.
“Busier” look. You end up with an image that communicates more than just the face of the subject. You now have an entire scene that can factor in.
Most of the time, if a group or company reaches out to me, I will strongly recommend a neutral backdrop, simply because it’s versatile and selecting an outdoor location poses many possible logistical issues. But, of course, there are times that an outdoor portrait can work well, you just have to know when that is an be ready to battle the elements.
There is a third option which is to do your headshots in an environment unique to your business or personal brand. Trying to photograph staff for a manufacturing plant? Maybe we can do that on the manufacturing floor. Need a headshot of your music department? Maybe we do that on the stage with some strategically placed instruments.
Regardless of the direction you go, you want the image to clearly resonate with your brand and style, without being overly stylized so that it feels dated in two years.
