There comes a point in the life of any artist when they can no longer work or practice at home. For many, it’s about not annoying their neighbors or roommates with noise or having a designated space for works-in-progress.
For others, it’s about stepping up their game and finding more control over the project. In this article, we’ll cover why studio rental is worth considering for your creative projects.
Space
Studio rentals are often much more affordable than one-bedroom apartments and offer great locations in the city. They also make a lot of sense for college students and early graduates entering the workforce.
Many studios will include equipment in the rental price. This is helpful because it can save you money on purchasing or renting your own gear.
Depending on the type of art you create, it is important to have the right environment for you. For example, a painter will need to use a studio with ample natural light while a video producer might require soundproofing to avoid interference with their work. Ask about what specific conditions the space provides before booking. This will help you narrow down your options and find the right studio for your creative projects.
Lighting
The lighting available for your creative projects is another essential factor to consider. The best studios will use versatile lighting that accommodates a variety of project types and styles. Ask the rental agency what type of lighting is used and whether they have any additional equipment that can be rented. This may include c-stands, backdrops, grey canvases to help spread light evenly, pocket wizards for taking photos remotely, and more.
Check if the studio has green screens. Many projects require access to a green screen, so it’s important to know ahead of time. Also, make sure the studio has a cycle wall, which helps create seamless walls-to-ceiling transitions for more nuanced shots. The studio should also have quality soundproofing to eliminate external noise that could distract your team.
Equipment
Studio rentals come with a variety of equipment to meet the needs of different creative projects. Whether that’s cameras and equipment, or props like backdrops and furniture. It’s best to ask about what is included with the space before booking.
It’s also important to note where the space is located and what other businesses/activity are nearby. For example, you may not want to set up near a metal shop if you’re doing sound or sculpting work.
If the studio doesn’t include equipment that you need, ask if they can rent you what you need for the day. This can save you money and time that could be spent finding other gear. You may also find that some studios provide more advanced equipment like c-stands, backdrops and even a cyclorama.
Accessibility
Studio rentals are a popular trend that investors are diving into. They often come at a lower price tag than other types of property and can be found in areas that are popular among college students and workers.
When it comes to making a studio more accessible, there are several things that need to be taken into consideration. First, it’s important to consider the layout of the space. Typically, studios have a combined area for the bedroom, living room and kitchen so that everything is located in one room. Some studios even have an alcove to give renters a bit more privacy.
Next, it’s important to ensure that the images on a website are accessible. This includes making sure that the captions are accurate and that they meet accessibility guidelines for color contrast and text size.
Safety
Whether you’re a photographer, videographer or another type of artist, safety is a priority. Be sure to ask about the safety measures taken by a studio rental. Some studios have a dedicated security team, while others have a staff member on hand to answer any questions and offer tips on using the equipment.
It’s also important to check the studio’s location and surrounding area. If it’s close to a school or busy road, that can impact the sound quality of your work. Also, be aware of any unexpected NIMBYs — for example, one studio we once used was located between two homeless shelters, which meant people wandered by at all hours and peered in.
Be sure to get an insurance policy for any equipment that is being rented. This should cover the full replacement value of the gear, and name Biola as the Loss Payee and Additional Insured.