I have always had tiny spaces to work in, it can be really frustrating but a great learning experience also. Embrace the small spaces and once you accomplish what you’re after you’ll feel so elated and know you could set up and shoot a great image anywhere!
So, from the years and years and more years of being a photographer who primarily works from home, I’ve found a few things you must-have for your at-home studio to get started.
- Backdrop stand either a self-standing one or one you hang on your ceiling.
- Backdrops! Cheap and cheerful, I have a range of colours but starting with black, white and a mid grey is a good start!
- A stool for your models to perch on and it’s a good place for them to sit if having hair and makeup done. Also, it keeps your model from trying to move about too much, then they don’t fall out of the lighting you’re trying to achieve.
- At least 3 sync cables if you use them with your lighting because sync cables are notorious for their short life span and it’s happened mid-shoot with me many times. Always have a backup or two!
- You can start with one light, I’d suggest a softbox (octagon ones are fab for all sorts) and a beauty dish. I have three lights personally, but you don’t HAVE to have three when starting.
