As some of my loyal followers are aware, I’ve been in search of my own studio off and on for quite a while now… Today I sadly report that I am no closer to having one than I was when I started… I would love to lease some space on “main street” but the fact of the matter is – that will never happen. Living in a farming community, in a region of the state that’s already oversaturated with photographers, I just can’t justify spending 4 times the amount in rent than I would ever take in. Unless of course I raise my rates, and that’s something I do not want to do. My business plan is to provide the best quality photography at the cheapest prices – period… I’m not trying to get rich, but get by – doing something that I love to do…
Anyway, with winter season rapidly approaching and opportunities for outdoor sessions dwindling exponentially by the day… I’m left with a bit of a dilemma… Clear out a section of my basement and set up a studio there, or haul major butt and get the permits and everything ready to build a garage / studio out back before winter settles in…
Both options have strengths and weaknesses…
- The basement can be done on the cheap, which is extremely appealing!! It’s a full basement – meaning that it’s the full size of the house, (but it’s also “full” of crap that’s collected over the years too, so it won’t be a quick fix into a presentable studio by any stretch…) Also the ceiling isn’t at an ideal height either. You don’t have to duck or anything, but it’s not 10 feet high either which would be better…
- Building a garage on the other hand could be built exactly to my specifications and would be away from the house – it’s own separate entity. There would be room for storing props, equipment, a changing room, etc… and would look very professional… All of which is very appealing!! But there’s the time and most importantly the cost involved….
I think, just in writing this all down, it’s made my decision easier. I think I’m going to start cleaning up the basement!!! Cleaning up the basement will accomplish two things actually, I’ll get a cheap studio, and as an added bonus, a clean basement!! Sort of a win-win!! 🙂 The ceiling limitation I can work with for now…
Basement – no mans land
There’s quite a mess down there, stuff all over… a “L” shaped workbench back in the corner… A ping-pong table in the foreground that hasn’t seen the light of day in ages…. And just piles of “stuff” all over… A good portion of it probably should be just tossed!
Close to the wall between the end of the work bench on the left, and the pile of cement blocks holding the water pressure tank on the right.
I think this will be the initial spot right here. From the edge of the bench on the left, to the pile of cement blocks holding the water pressure tank on the right. I can use heavy drapes or curtains to cordon off a different section of the basement for a changing area.
It’s not going to be “pretty”, no fancy woodwork or reception area to greet customers. BUT it will serve the purpose intended, and provide a clean, dry, warm area to have your photos taken!!
Now I just need to “get ‘re done!” :-/ (Continue!)