Introduction
Hiring a fashion studio for fashion shoots can be of great advantage to fashion photographers. A professional studio provides you with full control of the lighting, backdrops, props, and even the atmosphere of the photo shoot. This helps you capture very high quality, consistent images that effectively display the fashion designs. Renting a studio is also advantageous since one does not have to carry equipment to different locations and then set them up.
This ultimate guide will feature best practices when it comes to choosing the right fashion photography studio for rent, necessary equipment and amenities to have access to, how to finance the studio rental, getting prepared for the shoot and nutshell on the most recommended fashion photography studios in the major fashion cities.
As mentioned earlier, here are some factors that should be considered when choosing a fashion photography studio, Key Factors to Consider When Hiring a Fashion Photography Studio
When researching studio rental options, keep the following parameters in mind:When researching studio rental options, keep the following parameters in mind:
- Space Size – The photography studio should provide enough space to accommodate backgrounds to be set, lighting equipment, and props, and enough space for the models to maneuver. For full length fashion shots, the photographer should seek firms with 1500+ sq ft areas.
- Post Production – Access to a computer with Photoshop and other editing software is important for processing the photographs Fashion photographs require continuous strobe lighting with additional lighting sources such as soft boxes, flags, gels and others. Make sure there is professional lighting in the studio.
- Backdrops – It is advisable to have studios that offer various backdrops such as white, black and green screen backdrops. A smooth paper background provides a clean and homogenous appearance.
- Fashion Props – Studios equipped with fashion props, posing tools, steamers, garment, and other fashion accessories that can be used during the shoot can be very helpful in achieving the intended goal.
- Availability – Ensure whether the studio will be free during the needed dates and time or not. It is possible that weekends or nights will take shorter times to book near large cities. Be sure to book your rental as early as possible.
Some of the equipment that is crucial in fashion shoots include:
In addition to cameras and lenses, having access to these items can greatly improve the quality of your fashion photography studio shoots:In addition to cameras and lenses, having access to these items can greatly improve the quality of your fashion photography studio shoots:
- Lighting – It provides an option of continuous strobe lighting so you can always see the light and poses. They mimic daylight well. Also use small flash or mono heads for accents.
- Backdrops – These are the seamless paper, canvas or muslin backdrops that can be easily changed to avoid time wastage during the shooting process.
- Light Shaping Tools – Employ umbrellas, soft boxes, snoots, grids, flags, and gels to effectively modify the light direction, quality, and color.
- Display Equipment – Chairs, stools, platforms and other posing tools help you to display the designs in the best manner.
- Garment Steamer – It is recommended to have a steamer in the studio to avoid wrinkles and for a smooth texture on the garments.
- Clothing Racks & Tables – A section should be provided for the proper arrangement of fashion articles that are being captured.
Budgeting for Studio Rental Costs
The price for renting a studio varies depending on its location, size, facilities provided and the period of the lease. Normally, fashion photography studios cost $50 – $250+ per hour. Full day rates usually are cheaper than the hourly ones. Here are the typical costs to account for:Here are the typical costs to account for:
- Hourly or Daily Studio Rental Rate is one of the most important factors that a producer or a director would consider when choosing a studio for shooting his production.
- Equipment and accessories rental fees including lights, backdrops, etc.
- Location/Delivery Fees
- Insurance Fees
- Working for More than 8 hours
- They have cancellation and reschedule penalties and this shows that these services are being offered by professionals who do not joke with their schedules.
Also consider factor costs of an assistant, model, hair, makeup and props styling in your studio rental shoot budgets. Understanding the total budget will allow you to find out how many looks you can shoot and how many hours you can hire.
Tips on How to Achieve the Best Fashion Photo Shoot
Advance preparation is crucial for having a organized, productive studio fashion shoot:Advance preparation is crucial for having a organized, productive studio fashion shoot:
- Models, make up artists, schedulers, support personnel and anyone else. Prepare a call sheet.
- Get a sample of exactly the clothes being photographed in fashion magazines so that continuity of color can be maintained.
- Idea generation for new poses, lighting and backdrops. Create a motivational collage of material and papers.
- Create a list of specific shots including all the facial expressions, outfits and creative positioning.
- Place all equipment and backup gear that would be necessary into well fitted cases.
- Come early to check the lighting, the clothes to be steamed, check the batteries, memory cards, etc.
With these steps done beforehand, you will be able to bring out the creativity and efficiency during the time that you are in the photography studio.
Conclusion
Snagging a fashion photography studio allows for so much freedom and creativity that are hard to achieve when shooting at a location. The use of ideas outlined in this guide enables fashion photographers to secure the ideal studio space, acquire appropriate equipment for successful shots and execute productive studio shoot days. This will lead to visually appealing, memorable fashion images which are in tune with the image of the designs being advertised.
