This is a question I’m asked all the time, and the answer is simple: yes, professional headshot photos can absolutely be taken outdoors. In fact, outdoor headshots can feel more modern, authentic and aligned with today’s working world.

Why Outdoor Professional Headshot Photos Make Sense

Corporate culture has changed dramatically in recent years. Workplaces have become more flexible, dress codes are more relaxed, and remote work is now standard in many industries. Many professionals work from cafés, co-working spaces or even their gardens—so why should professional headshot photos be confined to a plain studio backdrop?

Outdoor headshots can still be polished and professional while offering a more natural and engaging feel. They reflect the way we live and work today, making them a great choice for personal branding.

Professional Headshot Photos and the Shift Towards Sustainability

Another reason outdoor professional headshot photos are growing in popularity is the increasing focus on sustainability. Many businesses are working towards B Corp certification and promoting their environmental efforts. Having corporate portraits taken outdoors, especially with greenery in the background, subtly reinforces a company’s commitment to sustainability and well-being.

How Interior Design Trends Have Normalised Outdoor Headshots

Interestingly, interior trends have also played a role in making outdoor professional headshot photos more acceptable. A few years ago, houseplants were relatively uncommon in offices. Now, they’re everywhere—homes, workspaces, cafés, and even retail spaces. This shift towards incorporating nature into our daily lives has extended to professional photography.

Many modern office buildings now feature rooftop terraces and green spaces, encouraging employees to spend more time outdoors. As we embrace a more holistic lifestyle, it’s only natural that professional headshot photos reflect this too.

My Approach to Outdoor Professional Headshot Photos

As a natural light photographer, I love capturing professional headshot photos outdoors. The soft, natural lighting combined with elements like trees, flowers, and unique architectural backdrops creates images that feel fresh and contemporary. This is why I frequently incorporate outdoor settings into my photography.

I even have a signature collection of portraits, ‘Bolton Blossoms,’ featuring women photographed in nature. Whether I’m shooting a corporate headshot, a personal branding session, or a portrait for a creative entrepreneur, I find that outdoor settings often bring out the best in my clients.

Are Outdoor Professional Headshot Photos Right for You?

A great professional headshot photo should represent who you are today—not just adhere to outdated corporate norms. If your work environment and lifestyle have evolved, your professional imagery should reflect that. Whether taken indoors or outdoors, the key to a standout headshot is authenticity, confidence, and connection.

You can read this for more on outdoor corporate photography.

For more information or to make a booking for Personal Branding Photography London, or for other professional photography services in London, please contact us at our West London Studio on info@serenabolton.com or on +44 (0)7415 792499. Or click here to fill out a contact form.

“Photography through the lens of a storyteller”

LONDON HEADSHOT AND CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHER