Choosing the right studio space can be make or break for your brand photos.
I’m a big proponent of shooting in your own personal home office or workspace, as I feel it brings honesty and authenticity to your photos. If your prospects see you professionally photographed in the space where you show up on IG stories and create content in, it will feel really aesthetically aligned and consistent.
However, sometimes our home or workspace simply isn’t the best fit.
Maybe it’s too cramped and cluttered for your visual preferences.
Maybe the decor reflects your personal style more than your brand’s aesthetic.
Maybe the only space you have in your home for your work is the corner of the couch where you work on your laptop.
Sometimes, the wisest decision you can make is to book a rental space that has the aesthetic look you’re hoping for, so you don’t need to spend hours rearranging your office or buying up props and supplies to outfit your space.
Chances are that a space already exists that suits your brand vibe and will make life easier!
Here are my favorite photography studio rentals for branding sessions in Northern Virginia!
My favorite Northern Virginia studio rentals for brand photography sessions
TORCH PICTURES STUDIO
Torch Pictures Studio – Alexandria, VA
I’ve used this space for my last two Brand Mini Sessions and it’s SUCH a versatile space! I love the flexibility we can achieve.
My favorite features:
- Skylight!
- White walls and white floor for a lovely neutral space
- Thoughtful furniture that works for many brand aesthetics
- Cute functional kitchenette
- Space to set up a seamless paper backdrop
- Lots of space to play and bring in on-brand props
BLANCHE CREATIVE STUDIO
Blanche Creative Studio – Alexandria, VA
This space is so beautifully curated and offers a gorgeous option for brand photography!
My favorite features:
- Built-in paper backdrops
- Adorable mini-office setup (that acrylic desk is everything)
- The white couch of my dreams
- Walls with texture to keep it interesting
- Thoughtful and high-quality props and decor
- Helpful on-site staff
- Separate sitting area
- Located in a cute walkable area for outdoor portraits
THE STUDIO COLLECTIVE
The Studio Collective – Fairfax, VA
This small but mighty studio space is an excellent option for personal branding sessions!
My favorite features:
- STUNNING natural light
- Loads of helpful photography tools
- Straightforward space with minimal distractions
- Separate sitting area
- Built-in backdrops
- Located in a cute walkable area for outdoor portraits
LAIR THE STUDIO
Lair The Studio – Falls Church, VA
This studio is an absolute dream! It’s a pricier studio option compared to other spaces in the area, but I believe it’s worth every penny. I haven’t shot here yet but I am hoping to soon!
My favorite features:
- High-end aesthetic
- Built-in architectural elements
- Luxurious furniture options
- STUNNING natural light
- Spacious and comfortable
- Ultra-neutral space
STUDIO 428
Studio 428 – Leesburg, VA
This studio is a photographer’s dream! The windows, the space, the decor. So versatile! I haven’t shot here yet but I am hoping to soon!
My favorite features:
- Versatile and spacious shooting areas
- Amazing natural light
- Separate sitting area
- Thoughtfully selected furniture and props
- Space for setting up paper backdrops
Also consider browsing:
🏡 Airbnb / Vrbo
ALWAYS ask your host for permission before booking a home rental for photos!!!
They may be able to offer you an hourly rate or offer adjusted check in/check out times.
🏡 Home Studio List
This is an amazing resource that offers hourly rentals of beautiful homes to photographers. It’s a dream!
These rentals tend to run a bit pricier per hour, but they’re 1000% worth it! And if you find a listing here that fits your brand aesthetic well, your life will be easier!
Some questions to consider when choosing a location for your brand photos:
- Does this reflect my brand’s aesthetic already?
- Are the walls, flooring, and other permanent features in alignment with my brand?
- How many things will I need to remove/change/add to make it suit my brand?
- Is there enough space for myself, my photographer, and all our supplies?
- How is the natural light? Will we need to bring lighting equipment, and if so, is there space for it?
Your backdrop sets the atmosphere for your brand photos, and shooting in the wrong space can make it harder to get photos you love!
If you love the space, you’re way more likely to love your photos.
And luckily, the DC area has some amazing studio options for your next brand session!
Tell me – would you shoot your brand photos at any of these DC area studios? Which do you like best?