This question comes up often. If it is a steam shower. Pitched, vapor proof & tiled is required. Other than that look at photo's. It's a personal preference. You do want a good exhaust fan in the room.

i find tile overhead, even light colored, makes me feel like i'm in a cave. i always go for a painted ceiling.

@nnigrt, you are very design savvy and insightful...please provide feedback on our design dilemma [https://www.houzz.com/discussions/design-input-for-smart-mailbox-dsvw-vd~2958277[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/design-input-for-smart-mailbox-dsvw-vd~2958277)

I always try to advise my clients to do what I do myself, all of my tub/ shower ceilings are tiled. It is the easiest maintenance. As Creative Tile stated, there are many design options that you can explore.

Its a personal preference. If it is a steam shower, then the ceiling must be tiled. I do agree that it could make you feel closed in, especially depending on the ceiling height. However, if it is well designed, then you should be comfortable with whatever option you go with.