Setting up a decent photography studio can cost you a fortune if not correctly done. However, various ways can help you cut the cost of setting up the studio. The plain truth of the matter is, you can begin your own photography business by installing a studio in the basement of your house. Having a studio in your basement will save you from incurring extra costs associated with renting a space. Even though this is the case, there are a few factors that should be kept at the back of the mind before setting the studio. Some of the considerations include; equipment and accessories, budget, and space. This article gives a guide on how to come up with a basement photography studio. Below are steps to follow when setting a DIY basement photography studio.
Basement Photo Studio Supplies & Gear
First of all, you have to come up with a list of all the accessories and equipment that you need for your basement studio. Some of the main accessories include; a transmitter for the Speedlight, clips to hold the backdrop, the backdrop itself, umbrella, and a light stand with the amount.
The main aim when setting up this studio is to keep it simple and pocket friendly. Depending on the nature of your space and light available, you might have the option to manage without the backdrop, Speedlight or both. If your basement space has windows that can give light, utilize that. If the basement has an elegant wall, then it can work as a backdrop.
Sometimes you can make use of a reflector, light stand, a second Speedlight. A polyfoam on the floor when raised a bit it can work as a backdrop.
Pro-Tip
Use the inverse square law to create a dark background if a backdrop is not available. This is achieved by positioning the subject close to a source of light, make sure you leave a suitable space behind. By doing this, light falls quickly and leaves the background in darkness.
Storing your studio for quick set up
For quick basement photography set up, accessing your gear and equipment is of great importance. The camera equipment that you use regularly like the lenses and camera, extra batteries, speedlights, and transmitters should be stored in a Think Tank case. Umbrellas, light stands, and Ice light should be stored in a tote bag next to the Think Tank.
By storing the equipment at a central place it is always easy to access them and it will save most of your time. Pulling the camera and other accessories when setting up is made more accessible when your staff is put in one area.
Setting up your basement photo studio
The last things you will need for your basement photography studio are things you may as of now have. A computer and camera devices that many photographers always have. You might need to purchase an extra camera as a reinforcement just in case the primary camera malfunctions. Your PC would be utilized for editing your photographs. You may need to buy an additional photograph editing program too.
At long last, you need to ensure that you don’t place your funds when there’s no other option setting up your new studio. You will most likely be unable to buy all the equipment needed at once. You may need to get a couple of things over some time. Most people take a very long time to develop their gear and props. When you begin getting cash for your photo shooting sessions. You can reinvest into your business. Building a basement home studio can be an overwhelming assignment if you permit it to be. With careful planning, you can set up a basement photography studio with a minimal budget.
Step 1: Set up your backdrop stand.
The first step to take when building your basement studio is set up the backdrop stand. Also, don’t forget to hang the seamless paper or background.
Step 2: Attach the umbrella to the light stand.
To bounce the light towards the subject, mount the umbrella, and make sure the concave side faces the subject. You may also use another modifier or shoot through the umbrella.
Step 3: Mount your Speedlight on the stand.
Next, on the stand mount the Speedlight. This helps to bounce light into the umbrella so that it can reflect on the subject. Depending on the type of light you want to create there are a variety of ways to set up your basement studio equipment.
Step 4: Mount your transmitter to your camera.
Once this is done, go ahead and dial in your settings, and you’re ready to start shooting.
The last step is to mount the transmitter into your camera. After this, you can check your dial-up and connections to make sure they are correctly set. Once all this has been done now you are good to start shooting.
PRO TIPS FOR A GREAT BASEMENT STUDIO
Use foam core
When it comes to the flooring of your basement studio, use a foam core that can be easily acquired from any local hardware. Foam core can function as a backdrop, helps to keep the color of the light clean, and can function as a reflector correctly.
Use a reflector
Mount a reflector opposite the source of light to add fill light. This will save money because there is no need for a second strobe or Speedlight. With the help of a handle, the reflector hangs effectively from the top of the second light stand.
Keep a seat nearby
For a natural model, seating has an apple crate or stool.
Use alternative light sources
Don’t stress yourself if you don’t have lighting devices. You can generally improvise and utilize a window. An Ice Light works incredible yet you can likewise attempt shop lights or other LED lights from your local shop. Have a go at diffusing these light sources with sheer window ornaments held tight a substitute front of them.
Don’t limit yourself to staying home
You can set up a home photograph studio anyplace, not merely in the basement. What’s more, since there’s minimal apparatus or gear required for this setup, you can even take your studio out. Nail your quick set up with a preliminary run or two and you’ll be prepared to make a studio in a customer’s home or office. This is an excellent choice for product photography and headshots.
Setting up a basement currently becoming more famous to most photographers. The high expenses of running and setting a studio in a business or retail space have driven most people back into their extra rooms at home. It’s additionally getting progressively regular to discover picture takers beginning locally established organizations. Before setting one in your basement make sure you have the skills and the necessary accessories and equipment needed.