Other reasons are e.g. personalization of the backgrounds by choosing your own location and a broader variety of backgrounds/type of pictures. For larger groups (i.e. > 5 persons) I recommend shooting outside. There's simply more space to move around and make it less static.
BLACK OR WHITE BACKGROUNDS
In my studio you can choose between a white and a black background. If you like grey we can create that as well. If you don't have a specific preference, try to imagine what you want to do with the photos. A white studio photo is e.g. excellent in a (dark) frame, or printed on canvas if you put it on a coloured wall. Black studio photos are beautiful on a white painted wall, either just as a picture (on aluminium, foam orso) or printed on canvas. Or put them in a dark frame with an off-white passepartout. Of course I can show you all kinds of possibilities in my studio.
WAY OF WORKING
Finally a short note on the way of working, which is not so much different in the studio or outside. Your ideas and questions are my starting point and I will complement these by giving my professional opinion and telling about possibilities. There is no maximum numbers of pictures taken: it's just a matter of what we are able to realize together. Colour or black&white? Landscape, portrait or square? If you know beforehand I'll keep it in mind while shooting. If you have no preferences - you will be surprised by the result!
People often ask what they should do to prepare for a portrait session. The most important thing I can imagine is bring yourself and have good fun! If you think you need someone else to accompany you in order to create the fun - he or she is welcome!
CLOTHES
Concerning clothes and stuff: it's just what you like. In the studio with white or black backgrounds just a jeans and a simple white shirt can be terrific. But kids with colorful clothes will be stunning as well. One advice in these is try to adjust a bit in case of groups portraits. Four out of five in natural colours and the fifth all in black is not what I mean...
STUDIO OR LOCATION
Studio sessions are more predictable - you know what you get, light is completely controlled. Some people prefer studio sessions because they like backgrounds to be crisp and clean, with all focus on the people being photographed. Others have practical reasons e.g. because it's more comfortable with small children.
But of course there are lots of reasons to choose for a photoshoot on location as well. Although it's less predictable, it's great working with natural light. Morning and late afternoon light are fabulous, but any occasion offers its own advantages. Bright sunshine makes a lively atmosphere, clouds can make it strong and dramatic. Even rain and wind can me a beautiful session - as long as you are comfortable it's no problem for me.
Details portrait sessions