With the advent of the internet and social media, many businesses can effectively function without a physical store or space. Everyone, except for a few, now prefers to shop for items they need and want from the convenience of their homes, and it has worked for many brands, big or small, as long as good logistics are in place to deliver these merchandise. It has also worked effectively for service providers with no physical products to sell, as I can quickly put myself out on social media and rapidly connect to my prospective clients. However, some brands or businesses must have a physical business address. One of these businesses or service providers is a photography brand. For several reasons, having a physical studio is very important and beneficial to a photography brand.

For every photoshoot required by a client, a story is portrayed. People like to tell stories through pictures, and photographers enjoy capturing these stories. Having a physical studio for taking pictures gives the client the option of choice when telling their story. For example, for a professional headshot picture, an indoor shoot inside the calm and relaxed studio seems better than taking such a picture outside in a landscape area that might have too much going on in the background. So, having a physical studio gives your clients the free will to choose.

Also, having a physical studio aids your work as a photographer. You can efficiently work with and tame the elements that bring your pictures to life, such as backdrops or lighting, which is a crucial part of good photography. In addition, it is easier for you to control your light indoors than outdoors, where you have natural light, which can negatively affect the outcome of your pictures if not effectively managed.

Having a physical studio also helps you work smoothly without interruptions, gives you and your clients complete privacy, allows zero distractions, guarantees your client’s comfort and provides you with the motivation to work efficiently. A physical studio is good, but like running any business, You need to have a proper plan to ensure the studio suits the photographer and his clients. Some factors that contribute to choosing a physical studio include:

 Accessibility

While this doesn’t affect how good your pictures are, you have to consider how easy it’ll be for your clients to get to your studio. You don’t want Your studio to be hidden away in a dark part of town far from where the majority are. But, on the other hand, you don’t want to take up a space without good road networks.

I, for one, am not good with directions, and if I had to look for a studio that would seem like a treasure hunt on a scattered map, I wouldn’t even bother. As a photographer, the utmost convenience of your model or client is your priority because you don’t want to take pictures of an edgy or annoyed client. Chances are high that they’ll not turn out as beautiful as you wanted.

 Basic amenities

Having the basic amenities should be top of your list when searching. Ask questions. How good is the lighting? Are there good convenience areas? Is there a stable water system? Would my clients feel comfortable while changing clothes? You need to have facilities that’ll help in the smooth running of your business and assist you with flawless pictures. Don’t rent a space that would only inconvenience you and your clients. Do your due diligence while searching.

 Availability of space

A spacious environment that allows you to move your equipment quickly. You might need to move equipment around at different times during your shoot for better angles and shots. It is, therefore, necessary that you are not working in a tiny or cramped space. Also, it’d benefit you to ensure that the building is of perfect height and has enough room between the floor and the ceiling. The availability of space would ensure that your equipment is easily moved and there’s no hindrance as you work.

 Natural and artificial lighting

Lighting plays a preeminent role in how pictures and videos turn out. One mistake that creates bad lighting can lead to hours of wasted effort. Therefore, your photography studio must have good natural and artificial lighting. It must have good windows that allow streams of light to flood the entire space during the day and also have good artificial lights that are enough to give you good results, such that no matter what time of the day you have to work, the room is bright enough.

 Aesthetics

You have to consider whether your studio is pleasing to the eyes. Would clients feel so comfortable with what they see around them that they would be reluctant to leave? If you have to invest in getting a decorator, do it. You might have to get new paint or wallpaper, something that feels homely or settles whatever theme you want your studio to have. You might decide to go for something modern, homely, rustic, or any other theme, but whatever theme you choose, ensure it reflects your brand and comforts, relaxes and pleases your clients.

Ensure your flooring matches your wallpaper or paint and your furniture blends well. The goal is to have an aesthetically pleasing space. Your studio can also serve as an office space for you. It can serve as a space where you have meetings, edit pictures and do paperwork. So, as much as you consider your clients as you create that studio space, weigh yourself and your needs. Your studio can also serve as a storage space for your equipment.

In all of these, it is essential to be safe whatever location your studio is at. Make sure you study the environment and other businesses near your studio. It would be best if you didn’t have a studio where your clients wouldn’t feel safe. If needed, put extra security measures like CCTVs in place. Remember, your studio must reflect you, your brand and what your brand offers!