About Vancouver
Vancouver, BC, is one of the most renowned cities in Canada (and even North America!) and for good reason. In East Vancouver, you can find a diverse population with a strong cultural identity. Meanwhile, North Vancouver is famous for its outdoor spots and nature, making it a favorite destination among skiers and sports enthusiasts. Of course, there’s downtown Vancouver, where you can find some of the most popular locations in the city.
More than being British Columbia’s top destination, Vancouver has gradually built a reputation as a city with a creative flair. This is why there’s been a recent emergence of photography studios for rent in Vancouver. A photo studio is a professional shooting area with ample space (oftentimes high ceilings). It comes with a set of amenities that a photographer needs, such as light stands, sound system, props and backdrops.
Planning a shoot in Vancouver photo studios can be an absolutely amazing experience. The city’s pleasant weather for most of the year is also a major factor, especially for those thinking of doing outdoor shoots and taking advantage of natural light. Not to mention there are plenty of local vendors and suppliers for hire that can help bring your shoot to life. When you rent a photo studio, it’s almost a certainty that you will be satisfied with the final product of your shoot.
Photo Studio Options in Vancouver
- Equipment Rental
If you’re shooting at a photography studio, it’s only apt that you have high-grade equipment to take the best images. A cost-efficient way of having all the necessary gear is by tapping a local equipment rental company. They often have an extensive selection of lighting equipment and camera gear and accessories.
- Makeup and Hairstylists
Hiring makeup artists and hairstylists is pretty much a given when organizing a photo shoot. These professionals know what it takes to make subjects look great and stand out in front of the camera. This ensures that the resulting image will satisfy both the photographer and the subject of the shoot.
- Transportation
A photo shoot usually lasts for hours and involves numerous crew members along with plenty of camera and lighting equipment. With that said, hiring private transportation is a convenient solution. Not only do you not have to worry about carrying around heavy gear around, you can also ensure that there will be no delays in your shooting schedule.
Photo Studio Vendors in Vancouver
- Beau Photo Rental Department
This rental company has the latest camera models from the world’s top brands in its repertoire. They also carry camera accessories such as lenses, grips, tripods and more. Lighting equipment can also be rented from them, making them a one-stop shop for production teams.
- Beauty En Route
Beauty En Route is a company that provides hair and makeup services everywhere in Vancouver. While they have an on-site studio, they also offer mobile services, meaning they can come to your location instead. The business has both ala carte options and packages where clients can choose which services they want to include.
- Vancouver Corporate Shuttle Service
As its name suggests, this company offers shuttle services around the city of Vancouver; they have hourly, daily and per trip options to choose from. Their fleet of vehicles comes in a range of sizes, starting from 14-seater vans to 56-seater buses. Your service also already comes with a driver so that you can just sit back and relax as you head to and from your destination.
Pros and Cons of Photo Studios in Vancouver
To rent a photo studio in Vancouver, BC, there are several factors that you will have to consider first. Each photography studio in the city has its own unique selling proposition. The city itself also presents some advantages and disadvantages for the production team.
Advantages
- Large shooting area
A photo studio is specifically made for shooting. This means that nearly all photo studios have a vast area where you can set up your gear and lighting equipment and still have enough space for the rest of the crew as well as your model.
- Inclusion of amenities
With shoots and productions as their bread and butter, photo studios likely have equipment such as lighting included in their rental cost. This means you can save some money that you would have otherwise used for renting or buying a specific item or gear.
- Talent pool
Vancouver is commonly referred to as "Hollywood North". This shows that there is a significant presence of talents related to the industry in the city, such as photographers, models and the like.
Disadvantages
- Potentially expensive
Vancouver isn’t exactly the cheapest city in British Columbia and this might translate into the rental rate of a photo studio.
- Ruined by the rain
Vancouver’s weather is typically nice all year long but there are occasional rain showers to be expected throughout the year. Unfortunately, this could affect outdoor shoots if there are no contingencies in place.
- Availability
Vancouver’s best photo studios are subject to availability. If you do not secure your preferred date as early as possible, there’s a good chance that it could be booked by a different production team.
Tips on How to Organize Photoshoots in Photo Studios in Vancouver
If you have a creative project in mind that you want to bring to life, Vancouver photo studios can make for the perfect setting. These tips below can help point you in the right direction and ensure that your vision comes to fruition.
- Do your research: There’s no shortage of options when it comes to photo studios in Vancouver; they come in all sizes and features. You may be looking for an artistic sunlit production studio or a versatile space that you can design to your liking.
- Check the inclusions: Practically all Vancouver photo studios are equipped with amenities and accessories that are needed for a shoot. Make sure that you get a list of each studio’s inclusions to determine what other items you will have to bring or rent yourself.
- Embrace Vancouver’s backdrops: Your shoot does not have to be limited within the confines of the photo studio. You should also take advantage of the city’s backdrops, whether it’s a mural, a park or even a prominent landmark.
- Understand Location Logistics: If the photo studio that you will rent in Vancouver is in a busy part of the city, you should plan for the logistics. Take note of free parking spots and areas where you can load your equipment in and out of the vehicle.
Famous Locations in Vancouver
- Stanley Park
Sitting north of Vancouver’s West End is Stanley Park. Nearly 1000 acres in size, this green space houses numerous attractions for people of all ages to enjoy, such as the Spanish Banks Beach Park and the Vancouver Aquarium. Throughout the year, the park also transforms into an activity venue and hosts a range of events and festivals.
- Granville Island
This former industrial site-turned-hip neighborhood spot is just like a mini city. Its biggest attraction is the Granville Island Public Market, where you can find a multitude of food stalls selling both fresh produce and ready-to-eat delicacies. There’s also a brewery within Granville Island that offers some fine craft beers.
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Suspended 230 feet in the air, this bridge is for thrillseekers looking for an adrenaline rush while in Vancouver. While the experience can be nerve-wracking, those who brave the ordeal are rewarded with a sweeping view of the Capilano River. Fun fact: it is the city’s oldest tourist attraction, having been established way back in 1889!