If you have an eye for beauty and can do wonders with a scene most people would deem ordinary, then photography is an excellent career path for you. However, starting in this field can be a bit challenging, especially if you don’t have a complete arsenal of equipment and the necessary resources to produce top-quality pictures.
Fortunately, you can now get access to top-of-the-line lighting equipment and picturesque backgrounds within a weather-proofed space with the help of photo and video studio rentals.
As the name suggests, these companies offer photography and videography professionals a place to shoot excellent pictures and films in for a fraction of what it would usually cost to having their own studio.
To make the most out of what you pay for, you must look for studio rentals that fit not only your budget but also your specific needs. To get started, consider these five factors that you need to consider in finding the right video and photography studio to rent successfully:
What You Need
Necessity is not only the mother of all invention, but it is also a crucial consideration when it comes to seeking a studio rental for photoshoots.
Since not all studios are alike, you’ll have to narrow down your options and focus on establishments that can give you what you need. And the first step to making this happen is listing down the items that you will require for your photo or video shoot.
For example, if you show up with just your camera in tow, you might need a studio that has everything else. In case you like using strobes, you might need to look for a studio that has a dry space with a couple of different backdrops.
If you’re just starting in photography and have no idea what you’ll need in a photoshoot, below are some of the essential offerings you should look for in a studio rental:
Backdrops
The background can make a big difference in photographs as it separates the mediocre from stellar, awe-inspiring images. This reason alone is enough for you to look for a photo studio that offers a variety of high-quality backdrops you can choose from and could match the theme of the shoot.
Lighting
A full setup of a professional photography studio often has more lights than people within the space. This is because proper lighting is crucial in conducting a professional-grade photoshoot.
If you’re new in the trade, you might find it overwhelming to find the right set of lighting equipment for your photoshoot, especially considering the number of options you need to choose from. You’ll need just about anything: from overhead lights and umbrella lights to rim lights and light disks. The key is to think long and hard about the type of photography you want to focus on.
On the technical side, you can also factor in the color of your output (tungsten or fluorescent), the direction needed (sidelight, under, overhead, or circular light), the quality (continuous or flash-type), and the quantity of light you need.
Tripod
Camera tripods are a photographer’s best friend. Aside from stabilizing the camera for a clear photograph, these stands also serve as an extension of your hand. They also have been proven to be useful for taking pictures that require photographers to squeeze in narrow, tall, or awkward spaces.
While you can always buy your own later, you can rely on photo studio rentals to have tripods ready for your photoshoot when you’re just starting out in photography.
Of course, you would have to identify the specific type of stand that you’ll need. Remember that this type of equipment can come in a variety of weights, sizes, and even materials – each having its own advantages. Do some research on what will suit your needs best.
Price
Photo studios offer many different types of packages. Some offer eight-hour and four-hour packages. Photoshoot studio rentals can be booked by the hour as well.
When choosing, make sure to consider the total package rate. Also, think long and hard about your requirements and determine whether you can get the most value for your money. Don’t choose a studio just because the price is low — factor in cost efficiency, too.
Studio Size
Another consideration you must think about before hiring a photo studio is its size. Again, this should be based on what type of photography you’ll be doing.
For instance, if you’ll only be taking portraits and headshots for modeling portfolios, you don’t need to rent a big studio. However, if you’re doing a group picture or have a crew of five or more coming with you, you might want to consider a wider space.
Accessibility
Although this doesn’t affect the quality of pictures you can produce, the accessibility of a photo studio is also a crucial factor you must consider, especially if you’re working with models or clients.
This is because there are instances when teen models might only be able to get to you via public transportation. If this is the case, choosing a studio with good transport links is an excellent decision.
Also, consider whether the location for the shoot is easy to find. You wouldn’t want clients complaining about going through a maze of unnamed streets and roads before finally reaching the photo studio. This will help you save time as well.
Trade Experience
Aside from your own experience, it would also be wise to rent a photo and video studio that offers more than just space and equipment for the shoot. You must also look for one that is owned by people with experience in the trade.
Remember that a studio proprietor can have a wealth of knowledge under their belt since they’ve seen virtually everything. Who knows? You might even get to learn from them, especially things like the effective use of lights and other trade-related tips and tricks.
Quick Roundup
Renting a space for a photoshoot can make or break your project. Whether you’re a professional or a newbie in the trade, make sure you look at all the options available. Don’t forget to factor in these major considerations for a hassle-free photoshoot experience using this article as a guide.
AUTHOR BIO
Adam Jacobs is the owner of Windsor Photo Studios in Melbourne, Australia and Managing Director of Bubblegum Casting, the country’s longest operating modelling, talent and casting agency for babies, children and teens. Adam is a creative digital marketer focused on growing companies’ online presence and performance using both tried and true as well as cutting-edge growth marketing and growth hacking tactics.
Leave a Reply