You’re probably familiar with the saying, “Time is money.” When you’re renting a studio space, this phrase couldn’t ring more true. That’s why we have a few tips to help you maximize your time in a photography studio rental.
Lightz Out Studios strives to streamline the studio rental experience. In that spirit, we aim to inform creative artists like you about how to get the most bang for your buck. Here are a few ways to make sure you don’t waste your time or money on your next shoot.
Schedule a Tour
Not all studio spaces are created equal. To guarantee you find the right space for your production needs, research several studios and schedule tours with the ones that fit your budget and requirements. When touring the space, take note of the layout and features. This will help you with the next step—planning your shoot.
If you’re unfamiliar with any of the equipment, ask for demonstrations. Remember, this is your opportunity to scope out the place, ask questions, and evaluate each studio’s amenities and features to make the most informed decision.
For instance, a cyclorama wall (cyc wall for short) features a seamless design that provides the illusion of an infinite background. A double cyc wall assists in evenly distributing light across a room and allows for a more dynamic shot composition. It also makes it easier to add special effects in post-production.
Other perks may include a designated wardrobe room for outfit changes and a hair and makeup room for touch-ups in between takes. A full-service kitchen allows your crew to stay fueled during long shoots, while free on-site parking saves you from having to shuttle heavy equipment long distances.
Getting a feel for the space ahead of time will help ensure a productive and efficient studio session.
Pre-Plan Your Shoot
Plan, prepare, predict.
Start by making a checklist of everything you’ll need for the shoot. Then gather all your equipment and supplies ahead of time or arrange to rent. Mark things off your list once they’ve been collected and organized.
Plan a shot list, with shots outlined in order of priority. This allows you to spend time on the most important shots at the start of the shoot when you’re feeling fresh and focused and leaving the less important ones for the end when you may be short on time.
Create a corresponding timeline to help you stay on schedule. Account for breaks, wardrobe changes, setup and breakdown of equipment, and anything else that may be a part of your shoot day.
Prepare your team by confirming schedules, studio location, and parking arrangements. Make sure everyone knows what, if anything, they’re expected to bring along with them.
Predict problems before they arise. While it’s unlikely you’ll be able to anticipate every challenge you may encounter on shoot day, do your best to be proactive in troubleshooting potential issues ahead of time.
For example, pack extra batteries. Have a list of nearby stores where you can grab last-minute supplies. Know the nearest hospital or urgent care center in case of an emergency.
Don’t underestimate the power of prep. The more you plan and prepare in advance, the more likely your shoot is to run smoothly.
Arrive Early
When you’re paying for a photography studio rental, you simply cannot afford to be late. You risk losing out on valuable rental time, which could upend your shoot altogether.
Plan to arrive early. This will give you a cushion in case you run into traffic or any other unexpected delays. When you’re calm and relaxed, you’re in a better mindset than when you’re feeling rushed, stressed, and pressed for time.
Get into the studio as soon as your session begins so that you can set up equipment and test lighting and camera angles. If your subject hasn’t yet arrived at the studio or is in hair and makeup, have someone sit in for them so you can take a few test shots.
Make any necessary adjustments before the actual shoot begins so that you’re able to get right to work once your model is ready. Remember, it’s better to start early and wrap early than to fall behind and run out of time.
Maximize Resources
When you opt for a photography studio rental, some of the setup is already done for you. Our space, for example, includes overhead studio lights to assist in lighting your subjects. You can also rent equipment directly from the studio so you don’t have to worry about transporting and loading in your own or third-party rentals.
Dedicated power sources located throughout Lightz Out Studios enable you to go full speed ahead, plugging in all your high-energy equipment at once. You can also jump on our high-speed Wi-Fi to upload videos or photos and back up your files.
The space is entirely yours for the time you’ve rented, so be sure to take full advantage of it.
Monitor Shots in Real Time
Eliminate the guesswork from your project. With tethered photography, you’ll connect your camera to a laptop or other device that allows you to view images on a larger screen.
Monitoring shots in real time allows you to spot and correct any focus or lighting issues. You’ll also be able to tell whether you need to adjust the framing or camera angle in any way.
Viewing images on a larger screen also helps you to know when you’ve captured the image you’re looking for and it’s time to move on to the next sequence on your shot list. Rather than leaving anything to chance, tethered shooting allows you to assess your work in the moment and make stronger creative decisions.
Ready to book a photography studio rental in Southern California? If so, contact Lightz Out Studios. We’re confident we have everything you need to make your next project picture-perfect.
