Studio vs. Outdoor Maternity Sessions

Which style is right for you? Let's compare.

The Quick Answer

Both options create stunning images-the "best" choice depends entirely on your vision, comfort level, and priorities.

Choose Studio if: You want dramatic, fine art portraits with complete control over lighting, access to our wardrobe, and climate-controlled comfort.

Choose Outdoor if: You want natural backdrops, golden hour magic, beach or garden settings, and location variety.

Can't decide? Many clients do both! Start at the studio, then head to a nearby outdoor location for sunset.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Studio Session

$750

What You Get

  • 1.5-2 hour session
  • 15 edited images (11 advanced + 4 composites)
  • Tulle maternity robes (color customized in post-production)
  • Wind machine for dramatic fabric movement
  • Professional lighting setup
  • Climate-controlled environment

Pros

  • Complete control over lighting and environment
  • No weather concerns-rain or shine
  • Privacy and comfort
  • Access to entire wardrobe collection
  • Air conditioning in summer, heat in winter
  • Bathroom and changing area on-site
  • Can schedule any time of day

Best For

  • Fine art, dramatic portraits
  • Late third trimester (more comfortable)
  • Weather backup option
  • Clients wanting wardrobe access
  • Composite/fantasy imagery

Outdoor/On-Location

$900

What You Get

  • 1.5-2 hour session
  • 15 edited images (11 advanced + 4 composites)
  • Location scouting and planning
  • Permit handling (if needed)
  • Travel within Hampton Roads included
  • Multiple location stops possible

Pros

  • Natural golden hour light
  • Beautiful, meaningful backdrops
  • Beach, garden, urban options
  • Natural wind movement in fabrics
  • Can visit multiple locations
  • Incorporate special places (where you met, got engaged, etc.)

Best For

  • Beach/coastal lovers
  • Garden and nature enthusiasts
  • Clients wanting location variety
  • Those with meaningful places to include
  • Spring and fall sessions

The Best of Both Worlds

Combo Session: Studio + Outdoor

$1,100

Start at the studio for dramatic fine art portraits with wardrobe access and wind machine effects. Then we head to a nearby outdoor location for golden hour magic.

Includes: 20 edited images (15 advanced + 5 composites), both sessions in one day, maximum variety

Sample Images: Studio vs Outdoor

Studio Examples

Outdoor Examples

Popular Outdoor Locations

All included with on-location sessions (no travel fees within Hampton Roads):

Virginia Beach

Sandbridge (private beaches), First Landing State Park, Oceanfront pier, Town Center

Norfolk

Norfolk Botanical Garden, Ghent & The Hague, Ocean View Beach, NEON District murals

Suffolk & Beyond

Downtown Suffolk, Sleepy Hole Park, Bennett's Creek, Great Dismal Swamp

Virginia Beach locations | Norfolk locations

Decision Helper

Choose Studio If You...

  • Want access to our maternity robes
  • Prefer climate-controlled comfort
  • Are in late third trimester
  • Want dramatic, fine art portraits
  • Have a session during hot summer or cold winter
  • Don't have a specific outdoor location in mind
  • Want the lower price point

Choose Outdoor If You...

  • Love the beach, gardens, or natural settings
  • Want that golden hour glow
  • Have a meaningful location to include
  • Are comfortable with weather variables
  • Want variety in your photos
  • Are scheduling in spring or fall

Choose Both If You...

  • Want maximum variety in your gallery
  • Can't decide between the two
  • Want robe access PLUS outdoor shots
  • Are planning a baby announcement with multiple looks

Last updated: February 2026

Ready to Choose?

Still not sure? Let's chat! During your consultation, I'll help you decide based on your vision, timeline, and preferences.

Studio $750 | On-Location $900 | Combo $1,100


Book Your Session

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