Indoor vs Outdoor Headshots for Dallas Professionals
As a professional, one of the first things people notice is your headshot, whether it appears on your online profiles on LinkedIn, your company directory, or your personal business cards. At MG Marshall Photography, we know that before you schedule a shoot with the first photographer who pops up in your search results, it is important to consider one of the most fundamental questions: do you want your headshots taken indoors or outdoors? Both options have their own pros and cons, and depending on your role and how the image will be used, choosing the right one can make a real difference in how you are perceived in this part of Texas.
The Case for Indoor Headshots: Control and Consistency
In this blog, we will go over the details of indoor headshots and outdoor headshots, and you will also find useful tips and tricks to consider when it comes to lighting, background, and what is currently in style for different industries in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX. At MG Marshall Photography, we want you to feel confident that you are making an informed decision and choosing what works best for you and your career in Texas.
Indoor Headshots: Studio Shots and Full Control
Studio headshots, also called indoor headshots, have been around for a long time and are still a favorite for many professionals. The term “studio shot” is used to describe a headshot with a neutral and distraction-free background that is taken completely indoors. The result is a timeless image that works for a wide variety of industries throughout the region. When you schedule studio headshots with MG Marshall Photography, our goal is to give you a controlled environment where every detail is carefully managed for the best possible result.
A Neutral and Professional Background
A simple, neutral background is another major advantage of indoor headshots, as it allows the viewer to focus on the subject, which is you. Solid colors and unobtrusive texture in the background ensure that there are no distractions and all eyes are on you. Professional and traditional industries such as finance, law, and corporate roles usually prefer indoor headshots, and many businesses also have other employees pictured with neutral backgrounds to maintain a sense of continuity. Our team at MG Marshall Photography is very intentional about helping your headshot match your company’s existing visual style.
Weather Is No Issue
Last but certainly not least is the advantage of being indoors during your photo shoot. Many photographers have their own studio for headshots, but when it is not available, almost any indoor location will do. The advantage of this is that you do not have to worry about the typical North Texas weather and how it might affect your session, including sudden downpours, unpredictable changes in lighting, or heat and humidity that make it uncomfortable to get your hair just right. When you work with MG Marshall Photography, we plan your indoor session so that weather never has the chance to interfere with your photos.
The Appeal of Outdoor Headshots: Authenticity and Context
On the flip side, outdoor headshots have also seen a surge in popularity in recent years. There are no right or wrong answers here, but if you are curious about getting an outdoor headshot in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, here is a quick rundown on why people prefer having them outside.
Utilizing Natural Light
Arguably one of the biggest advantages that outdoor locations have is the soft and natural light, especially during the popular “golden hour.” When the sun is setting or rising, the light it produces creates a natural, approachable warmth that is flattering on just about anyone. Outdoor headshots can also appear to be more natural and less staged than indoor headshots, which is why many people in Texas prefer them.
Dynamic and Contextual Backgrounds
Outdoor locations have another major advantage over studio shots: the backgrounds they allow for. While having a neutral background might be a good idea for some professions, if you want to inject a little more personality into your headshot, picking a location that reflects your personality and style is a great way to go. If you work in a field like real estate, design, architecture, or engineering, an outdoor headshot with a background related to your area of work might be a good choice. There are many beautiful, photo-worthy spots across Dallas-Fort Worth, TX that can be great for your headshot.
Key Factors for Dallas Professionals to Consider
Of course, not everything about outdoor headshots is sunshine and roses. The biggest challenge with outdoor headshots is the weather. Since you are at the mercy of the sun and clouds, you might find yourself needing to reschedule if a rain shower or high winds pop up. Lighting and weather can also change quickly outdoors, so a professional photographer is essential, and some flexibility is also required.
Your Industry and Brand Message
Think about what the image is going to be used for and the impression you are trying to create. Different industries have different norms for what is an appropriate headshot and the style you should be going for. Conservative or more traditional industries like law, finance, and similar fields often require a more neutral and professional headshot, usually with a plain background, to match their website and social media. These industries are usually best served by an indoor headshot. Fields like marketing, tech, design, and others that are more fast-paced or creative can usually experiment a bit more and opt for an outdoor headshot if it suits your overall brand and personality better.
Intended Use of the Headshot
If you will be using the headshot for business and professional purposes only, such as company websites, directories, and business cards, we would still suggest going with a classic and polished indoor headshot. However, if the headshot is going to be used for social media and for personal branding purposes, such as for speakers, podcasters, and coaches, an outdoor shot might be the right pick. It is also perfectly fine to have both indoor and outdoor headshots so that you have options for different platforms.
Personal Style and Comfort
The last and perhaps most important part is your own style and comfort. Are you a person who feels more comfortable and authentic outdoors or indoors? The more at ease and natural you are during the photo shoot, the better it will show in the end result. Only you can decide where you would like to have your headshot taken, and it is just a matter of which setting best fits your style.
There is no single answer to the question, and the right choice is entirely up to you. Outdoor headshots can help to make a lasting impression and add some personality to your image, whereas indoor headshots are the time-tested, classic choice that looks sharp and clean. If you are still unsure which option would be a better choice for you, your next best step is to talk to a professional photographer. Here at MG Marshall Photography, we specialize in Dallas professional headshots throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, TX and across Texas, and we can be of assistance if you are still not sure which is the right path for you. We can also work with you to create the best image in whichever environment you feel most at home and help you take the first step toward making the right impression.










