How to Create Impactful Portraits in a Small Studio Space with Shannon K Dougherty
Working from home has become the new normal for many of us in 2020. I’ve always loved the challenge of setting up a studio in a small space. Small spaces do not mean that your work or abilities will suffer. I’m a big believer that you can run a successful studio with just a small amount of gear and a whole lot of imagination!
When I first started shooting photography on a professional level I was lucky enough to have access to a fairly large studio that had everything you could want—honestly, probably the studio we all have in our dreams.
Now fast forward a few years into my photography career and my own business where I didn’t have a separate studio that I rented. I had to ask myself the tough questions about what the next step would be on having a studio space. I decided what would be best for myself and my business is to run a studio out of my home. In fact, I’m very lucky to have amazing light and space in my kitchen, so that is where my studio is set up. At first I worried what others and clients might think. I can say confidently that this is just a roadblock I had in my own head. I’ve never had any clients upset about coming to my home for a photoshoot (most actually love it and get to meet my cat)!
Be Honest About Your Needs and Your Budget
Let’s get the money factor out of the way. Studio spaces cost money. Depending on what city you live in, this could be a huge extra expense that you may not be able to afford at this time. Having a home studio can be a huge benefit with saving money in mind. You might be saying to yourself now, “But, I don’t have a lot of space or an extra room. How can I run a studio?” I’m going to tell you that you don’t need a lot to create impactful and beautiful images for your clients.
