Regardless of whether you’re working on an editorial fashion spread, catalog, or formal portraits, the choice of the photography studio is critical to capturing the best images. Since there is an abundance of choices: small creative spaces, large industrial lofts, or an open outdoor area and so on, it may become difficult to decide what will work best for a particular scenario. Here is a checklist of what should be considered when choosing a photography studio space in order to make your photoshoot a success.
Understand the Kind of Space You Require
Firstly, think about the kind of photographs you will be taking or any creative requirements you may have. This will help identify which size of the studio and facilities are ideal.
Portrait Photography
If you are shooting portraits, especially head-and-shoulder shots, you probably don’t need a large room. Photography studios that are of sizes 500 to 1, 000 square ft are ideal for people and small groups’ portrait photography. Ensure that there is adequate space to place your lighting and backdrops. North-facing windows are preferred for quality headshots because they provide even, consistent natural light which is the best for shooting.
Product or Fashion Photography
Product photography also needs more space for shooting on appealing backgrounds. Larger studios starting from 2,000 sq. The size of the dance floor of ft or bigger allows for more freedom in the setting of the stage. Ceilings above 14ft provide the necessary heights to accommodate tall backdrops suitable for apparels or products to be displayed. There are many electrical outlets placed around the room which aids in powering other lighting equipment as well.
Creative Commercial Projects
In case of advertisement space or space for articles, studios with specific architectural features such as brickwork, large windows, or exposed beams can suggest extraordinary images. Industrial loft style studio is perfect for creative brands that want edgy and artistic photos in their ads. The large open floor plans also allow for the construction of sets required during the show.
Assess Lighting Options
It is therefore very important to have control and quality of the lighting for any photoshoot to be successful. Determine what is already provided for by the space and what kinds of lighting equipment you may have to on rent for.
Natural Light Studios
Many photographers consider natural light as the best light source to use in their photography. Big windows and skylights give soft, even, beautiful light and such studios are ideal for shooting. The large windows in empty studios also provide great backdrop. However, do bear in mind how the position of the sun changes over time and this can cause variations from one shot to the next.
Continuous Artificial Light Studios
There are studios with permanent artificial lighting arrangements which in their intensity resemble daylight. While not as pure as the real thing, these constant lights cut down on shadows so there is more leeway in moving talent without having to concern yourself with light shifts. The flip side is, these lights produce more heat and hence the subject can sweat after sometime.
Strobe Light Studios
Lighting is another area where many studios lack adequate facilities because most photographers carry their own strobe lighting equipment. Make sure that there are outlets placed in various parts of the area where multiple lamps, headlights, reflectors, and charging cables can be connected. Wait for the ‘dark time’ when the strobes are recharging. Timing breaks to change the lighting interferes with the pace of the action.
Black Box Studios
Black box studios are even more flexible as they consist of a completely black room where the lighting can be constructed from the ground up. This flexibility makes it ideal for product photographers who may want to set a certain mood, or appearance. It also enables you to go an extra mile in terms of creativity. Just imagine the time and equipment required to go through a location and light it up from scratch without a single shortcut courtesy of natural light.
Inventory of Props and Equipments Available
Apart from the location also consider what amenities different studios are able to provide. From furniture to backgrounds to photography gear, it is convenient when these stylistic and technical elements are already on hand.
Fully-Equipped Rental Studios
Most of the specialized photography studios make sure that their rental areas are packed with lots of props – chairs, tables, couches, stools, shelves. This helps in that one does not have to source furniture individually in case one wants a styled shoot. They also have a variety of backgrounds such as colored paper rolls, vinyl background, printed city or natural scene. These studios promote creativity and are convenient. Just anticipate to pay more in rental fees since more equipment is offered.
BYO Gear Studios
On the other hand, there are basic blank studios which are simply bare rooms with electric outlets and lights. These are cheaper to rent but you have to bring in all your furniture, lighting gear, backgrounds, accessories, etc. If you have invested already in specialty equipment it permits full customization of your photoshoot. Just imagine the amount of effort that will be required to transport things individually in case of segregation.
Studio with Permanent Set
Larger photography stores catering for professionals have set up scenes that are designed for the purpose of being photographed. From living rooms in the contemporary world to the florist shops, hospital rooms, the aisles of a supermarket you would want to name it. What this does is make it easier to organize models and get straight to shooting with out all the formalities. It is just important to know that shooting angles are more limited when there are predefined settings in place.
Rental Gear Onsite
Even studios that may not necessarily have permanent sets may have additional equipment that onsite photographers can then add on to their rental such as powerful strobe lights, reflectors, umbrellas, and soft boxes. Some also sell photo accessories during the shoot such as colored gels, patterns, filters. Instead, ask what is available right there before carrying along your complete equipment set. This optimizes movement and offers contingency plans as well.
Compare Pricing & Terms
There are essentially two types of photography studio venues – bare shells where you can create your own atmosphere to fully equipped sets – and the price differs, of course. Review rates and the promotional offerings of the place, specifically if they offer cheaper rates for a full day rental. Ask if an assistant is provided or if there are extra charges for each individual. Ask about the amount they expect you to pay upfront and their policies on cancelations. Be certain that the rental of the studio is affordable according to the budget set for the production process before making the arrangement.
Smaller Do-It-Yourself Photography Studios
Economical for small crews where the number of employees does not exceed 5. It is advisable to have limited gear so be ready to feed yourself in case there is a need for extra gear. More suitable for taking portrait and head shots, small objects and items.
Industrial Loft Studios for Shooting Large – $100-$250 per hour
Allow for larger shoots of 5 to 15 people in the crew. More space for sets, trends more expensive, with additional facilities. Ideal for when you require the full production shoot.
Full service studio rental
These photography studios comes with lots of equipment, backdrops, props are factored in the prices. Practical but the most costly illustrating an aspect of convenience integration.
Take Away Tips
Hiring the right photography studio ideal to your creative sense and your production requirements will yield good shots. Understand what kind of shoot you are organizing by differentiating between a head shot and a product catalog. The size of the studio should also correspond to the size so that one can accommodate gear, sets, models. See if lights are dimmable or if you will require additional lighting fixtures. Know what furniture backdrops props are available in order not to over or under prepare. In this case, it is vital to compare the pricing rates in an effort to establish the value that can be offered within the set budget. Consider doing a reconnaissance before choosing a studio to ensure it has all that is necessary for you to effectively run your photoshoot. With a bit of planning, you will get the right location for an art studio to create interesting photos.
