BACKDROPS IN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

STUDIO VS OUTDOOR WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE

WITH BETHANY ELLEN

STUDIO BRIDAL PORTRAITS: THE CLASSIC TIMELESS LOOK

Right now, we’re passing the baton on bridal styles. Most millennials who wanted to get married already have, and now it’s Gen Z’s turn. Every time wedding demographics shift, so do styles and trends—usually with a big rejection of whatever was “normal” for the previous generation.So what does that mean for you? We’re seeing a return to nostalgia. On-camera flash is making a comeback, simplicity is trending, and I think we’re about to see a shift back to in-studio bridal portraits, too.Studio portraits have been the gold standard for bridal photography for decades. A controlled environment lets photographers focus on the bride’s details—from the texture of her dress to perfect lighting on her face. Here’s why studio portraits might be the right choice:

1. Consistency and Control

Studio sessions offer precise control over lighting, angles, and posing. You can make sure the bride’s features are lit beautifully, without worrying about unpredictable weather or harsh sunlight.

2. Simplicity and Focus

In the studio, the focus is 100% on the bride. With a clean background or carefully chosen backdrop, nothing distracts from the dress, makeup, or the emotion in the portrait. For brides who love a minimal, elegant look, the studio is perfect.

3. Flexibility for Artistic Shots

A great backdrop can totally change the vibe. Maybe you want rich velvet for a dramatic mood or soft, neutral seamless paper for a timeless feel. These options let you create stylized, artistic images that would be hard to pull off outdoors.I used the Bokeh Magic Apple backdrop for one shoot to tell a little story—like the bride was at the end of the night on a busy city street, minus the rain, traffic, or c

4. Environmental Control

Brides love outdoor portraits… until they’re actually outside. I can’t count how many spiders I’ve fished out of dresses with my bare hands. Plus, not every location is picture-perfect. Sometimes we’re in a strip mall parking lot or standing on the Cut in the Hill in Cincinnati.I live in the Midwest, baby. And one thing I know is that your wedding day will have terrible weather—no matter the season. Snow, heat, rain, wind—you name it. A backdrop gives you a consistent, safe option every time.

Outdoor Bridal Portraits: The Natural Beauty

On the flip side, outdoor bridal portraits have their own kind of magic. Natural light + nature = breathtaking, romantic images. Here’s why you might opt for outdoor portraits:

1. Natural Light
Outdoor light—especially during golden hour—is soft, flattering, and gorgeous. Whether you're at a beach, in a field, or surrounded by blooming flowers, outdoor portraits highlight both nature and your bride’s connection to it.

2. Environmentally Rich Backdrops
Outside, the world is your backdrop. A dreamy forest, a romantic garden, a mountain view—each setting adds its own charm and depth. These natural elements often carry personal meaning and can feel more authentic.

3. A Sense of Freedom
For brides who want a relaxed, candid vibe, outdoor portraits offer more freedom. Wind in the veil, trees rustling, and movement in the shot create dynamic moments that are harder to capture indoors.When to Use Backdrops in Bridal Portraits

WHEN TO USE BACKDROPS IN BRIDAL PORTRAITS

So, when should you actually use backdrops? While outdoor scenery can be stunning, there are times when a backdrop adds extra value—whether indoors or out.Studio Backdrops:

*For a Controlled Aesthetic: Want clean lines and an editorial style? A backdrop can elevate the image’s polish and sophistication.* To Highlight the Dress: Neutral or contrasting tones help bring out dress details and textures.

* For Creative Themes: From vintage wallpaper to art-deco sets, studio backdrops offer endless storytelling potential and better light control.Outdoor Backdrops:* To Enhance Natural Beauty: Simple elements—like a wooden arch or floral installation—can add just the right touch without overpowering the setting.

* To Reflect Personal Style: Locations that reflect the bride’s taste—like a lake, historic site, or urban landscape—can serve as meaningful, organic backdrops.

CONCLUSION: BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Whether you go with a studio or outdoor setting, it’s all about matching the vibe to the bride’s style and personality. Studio portraits give you that clean, timeless look. Outdoor portraits capture something natural, emotional, and free. Pro tip: I always bring a backdrop with me to weddings. You never know when the weather—or the location—will turn on you. Better safe than sorry.At the end of the day, it’s not about one being better than the other—it’s about what feels right for you. Whichever route you take, these portraits are memories in the making. Make sure they reflect the joy, beauty, and spirit of the day.

MEET BETHANY ELLEN

Bethany Ellen is an award-winning maternity photographer based in Cincinnati, Ohio, known for her bold, high-fashion approach to capturing the timeless beauty of motherhood. Since 2015, she has dedicated her career to helping expecting mothers feel empowered, elegant, and celebrated through artistic, full-service photography experiences. At her Cincinnati studio, Bethany offers more than just photos—she creates visual art that reflects the unique fire within each woman. Her signature style blends drama, artistic expression, and authenticity, with a mission to build lifelong client relationships through unforgettable sessions. In addition to her portrait work, Bethany is passionate about mentoring fellow photographers. She holds the Photographic Craftsman and Certified Professional Photographer designations through Professional Photographers of America and frequently speaks at national conferences. Her work has been featured in multiple publications, and she is the winner of Canon and Sal Cincotta’s The Creator Series, Season One.