Starting Your Photography Studio On A Budget

MENIFEE, Calif. - March 17, 2015 - PRLog -- Starting Your Photography Studio On A Budget

Are you one of so many photographers out there that would LOVE to start their own photography studio? Whether you’re just starting out in the photography business or perhaps you just want to do it in your time, you will need a space you can get your creative juices flowing, store all your gear and let the magic happen. However many entrepreneurs just don’t have the extra cash to dedicate to a professional photo studio. Luckily, we have a few tricks that might help you get a head start!

1. Use Space in Your Home

No doubt, the largest expense you as a future studio owner would have would be buying or leasing studio space. The easiest way to conserve these funds would be using a space that you already own or rent. Of course, you’ll probably want to tradition out of your home at some point when the cash starts flowing in but until then, save yourself the headache of writing that check every month.

Now, when choosing your new creative space, you’ll probably want to select an area that is secluded to some extent for privacy during the many sessions that you will be booking. The tough part about starting a studio in your home is finding an unused space that has enough room for your photos. It is probably best to have at least 20 feet of space to work with. Basements would certainly work, but you will need to be aware of low ceilings as, of course, that would not be best for photos. It is also very likely that light will bounce off the ceiling and you won’t be able to use a hair light, as it requires about 3 feet of space above your subject. A high-ceilinged room, attic or even a garage space are great potential spaces for your new studio!

2. Lighting

For you natural light photographers, you’ll want to select a space with large windows, a skylight, or some other source of light. However, if your preference is studio lights, you’ll want to choose a room where ambient light from windows, skylights, reflections and existing room light won’t be an issue. If ambient light is there, in many cases you can manage it with studio lighting, flash and shutter speed.

When you’re ready to start purchasing lighting equipment, you’ll want to start with either constant lights, speedlights or studio strobes (as your wallet or husband allows). A light modifier will help control your flash — choose from soft boxes, umbrellas, strip banks, flash benders, beauty dishes, and more. We highly recommend that you do your homework to help you decide which is the best and most economical solution for the lighting needs of your new studio.

3. Versatile Photography Backdrops

Now, you’ll want at least one Photography Backdrop to complete the list of basic equipment for your new studio. Again, if your wallet or husband allows, try and have one in the brown color family and one in gray. Such as our Sand Dollar Solid Photography Backdrop and/or our Soft Gray Solid Photography Backdrop. These are both perfect, versatile drops to start your new collection. From there, add a blue-toned option and a solid white either in poly paper or matte vinyl. Depending upon the type of photography you plan to do, you can expand into a roll of black paper and other seamless color choices. When you’re just starting out, versatility is very important. Your first few Photography Backdrops need to give you the ability to shoot all different occasions without breaking the bank.

4. Props

One of the best ways to set yourself apart as a new photographer is adding unique and adorable props to your setups. Now, this is a very broad subject so here are a few pointers: Although there are many adorable companies (& Etsy shops) out there, those expensive props can really add up. You might consider starting with some DIY projects for now. You can find a ton of ideas on our Pinterest boards on how to create some custom props until the cash starts flowing. You can also find some very cute (and inexpensive) props if you keep your eyes open on your next trip to Hobby Lobby or Michaels. Just remember to check out RetailMeNot.com or similar sites before you make your purchase!

5. Insurance & Taxes

Lastly, make sure that you are ready for the unthinkable. Little Sally could trip and fall in your home, or heaven forbid, your precious possessions might go missing; insurance would be a small monthly premium that will bring you security and that peace of mind that you need when starting a business. You should also contact an accountant and make you are set up for proper tax filing. You’ll be able to write off many expenses, including the percentage of your home rent/mortgage and utilities for the portion of your home used as your studio.

We hope this has been helpful!! If you have any thoughts or comments please leave them below!