If you’re a photographer and you run a professional business taking photos, you’ll have a choice to make at some point - do you want to grow or keep things as they are? If it’s the latter, then you might be perfectly content with your current setup, which could be a small home studio or perhaps even just your equipment (you’ll work out where to take the photos when the time comes).

However, if it’s the former and you do want your business to grow, then you might need to find yourself a great new photography studio space to work in. It looks professional, and it will make your clients feel more at ease, but it will also make you feel more confident in your abilities. Read on to find out how to find that perfect space.

Also Read:
Creating Your First Photography Studio
Capturing the Perfect Shot 6 Tips for Long Photoshoots
Building a Modeling Portfolio
Photo by PhotoMIX Company

Think About What You Need

The first thing to do when you’re looking for a new photography studio is to think about what you need before you go searching. Make a list of must-haves as that will narrow down your search and help you ensure that whatever space you move into is the right one - it could be an expensive mistake otherwise.

Not only do you need to think about what the studio needs to have in terms of space, natural lighting, space, storage, location, and so on, but you’ll also need to consider your equipment. Where is everything going to go, and where will you store it? You don’t want to have to keep carrying it all back and forth from home to the studio, so make sure there’s enough space for it all.

Things to Thinking About When Choosing a Photo Studio

Lighting

Space

Storage

Location

Also consider visiting the studio first before you book it if you have the ability to. Consider asking for a short tour or additional information and images.

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Lighting

Photography is all about light. Think about what lighting option will be at the studio. Some studios offer only natural light which may be fine in some cases. But consider when it is dark or there is no light. You will have to work with the room lights that may be harsher then regular studio lights.

Other studios offer studio lights. It is important that you understand what kind of indoor studio light options are available and how best to use them. Some studios have regular continuous lights that work great but may take some creativity working with. Other top notch studios will have studio lights, flashes, strobes and continuous lighting. These studios may be more expensive but have more options at your disposal.

Paige Beaumann and ijyoyo

Space

Occasionally I choose from a few different studios because some studios are fit for some things but not others. One of these is the amount of space. Space is important for equipment, flexibility in composition, group shots and control over lighting.

Depending on the equipment that you are using such as tripods, gimbals, specific lens focal length you will want to have some freedom. Studios may be different sizes and allow for different creative shots.

Paige Beaumann and ijyoyo

Composition is also essential when deciding on a studio space. Does the studio have enough space for what you are trying to achieve? You must decide if you want to spend more time in post production when dealing with spots in the studio with no background. Composition includes both vertical and horizontal space. You may wish to even use an angled shot that requires a wider perspective and more studio space.

Space is important for how many people are in the shoot. If you have 5 people and need to fit them all into one photo studio you want enough space for the shoot and a place where people can send off of the shoot as well without interfering. Consider how many people will be involved in the photoshoot.

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Control over lighting is also essential when picking a studio space. Oftentimes lights can take up space and you will need enough space for you, your subject and the lights. Having this in mind will help you when on the shoot.

Storage

Storage is also important when choosing a studio. Will there be an area to place additional gear you will not be using? Is there additional gear that can be used to enhance your photoshoot?

Location

Location can be important if you are working with a team of people. Finding a location that is relatively close to everyone can make travelling time easier. Most cities are known for having photo studios in the city and further out of the city. Generally but always studios in the city will be more expensive then one’s outside the city.

It is also worthwhile to understand where your clients and team can park. Will they have to pay for parking? Is there parking near the studio or at the studio? Having this in mind before you shoot is important in order to guide everyone to the photo studio.

Photography Insurance

As a photographer renting a studio, securing photography insurance is a prudent and essential step in protecting both your equipment and your professional liability. Photography equipment is often expensive, and unforeseen events such as theft, damage, or accidents can lead to significant financial losses.

Insurance coverage for your gear ensures that you can quickly recover and replace equipment in the event of an unfortunate incident.

Accidents can happen during shoots, and having liability coverage protects you from potential legal and financial repercussions in case of injury or property damage. Before renting a studio, carefully review insurance options to ensure they meet your specific needs. This proactive measure not only safeguards your equipment and business but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on creating stunning images without unnecessary worry.

Think About The Customer

As well as finding the ideal studio space for your own needs, you’ll need to take your customers’ needs into account too. What are they going to want when it comes to a great photography studio for their corporate headshots, family portraits or modelling portfolio?

One thing you’ll need to ensure you have is good access for everyone so that no one has to miss out on your services. You’ll also want to have a waiting room and bathroom facilities, for example. Plus, the entire place needs to be in a safe and easy to get location, otherwise no one’s going to want to come, no matter how great your work is. Then there’s the cost. When you spend a lot on a photography studio, you’ll need to make that money back, which generally means you’ll have to put your prices up; is that something your customers will want to pay?

Think About Your Budget

your budget and whether you want to buy or rent - your budget should also include the cost of corporate moving companiestoo, so don’t forget to add that in for a more accurate figure. Again, this is all going to narrow down your options to ensure you get the right place for you and your photography business, so even if it seems as though it’s taking a longer time, this research is definitely necessary.