3 Ways to Elevate Your Studio Photography Game

Aka how we stopped banging our heads against the wall after thousands of hours on set.

We’re back with more questions from our social team—today’s is one I love: “What are three ways a studio photographer can elevate their studio?”

Let’s get into it.

First off: just being in a studio already puts you ahead of the game. Most photographers (like, 80% or more) are natural light only. And while yes, we’re all chasing that natural light, it can also be limiting. Once you start leaning into controlled lighting, your whole world opens up. The confidence to create exactly what you want—any time of day, in any conditions—is everything. 

So how do you go from good to great? Here’s where to start:

1. The Right Equipment = The Right Foundation

It’s wild how many photographers skip this. If you’re going to work in a studio, you need a proper setup that supports flexibility and precision.

• A camera stand (not just a tripod) that moves easily up and down

• A solid overhead rig setup

• Grip tools to help you experiment with angles and elevate your composition game

  
  

Being able to move fast between setups and push your creative boundaries isn’t just about style—it’s about efficiency and professionalism. This is how you get those “how did they shoot that?” moments.

2. Curate Props Like You’re Curating a Mood

Please—if you’re still hitting up the same aisle at Target or World Market, let this be your sign to level up.

A killer prop collection can’t be bought in one trip. It’s built over time. We source from small makers on Etsy, collect pieces while traveling, and invest in props that feel unexpected, textural, and elevated. Whether it’s handmade flatware, vintage ceramics, or custom backdrops, the goal is simple: make it your own.

Your prop collection should tell a story—your story. The more distinctive your style, the more people will come to you for you, not just another cookie-cutter content shoot. Unless Nestlé is the client.

3. ABT: Always. Be. Tethering.

If you’re shooting in studio and not tethered… what are you doing?

Tethering to your laptop (or even better, a larger display) changes the game for quality control and client experience. It makes your workflow smoother, your feedback loop faster, and your final product better.

And if you’re still tethering in Lightroom, it’s time to graduate. Capture One is the industry standard for a reason—cleaner workflow, better color control, and way more intuitive for in-studio shoots.

10+ years ago we were shooting portrait sessions for $300. I had no photo internships. No production mentors. Just a lot of YouTube, late-night gear returns, and panic-Googling “what is a C-stand.” Fast-forward to now, and we’re regularly producing six-figure shoots with major agencies and global brands.

There was no roadmap. Just trial, error, imposter syndrome, and an unreasonable level of belief that we could figure it out. And somehow, we did.

TLDR (but we made you come to the end anyways)

1. Lighting mastery

2. Equipment that supports you

3. Props that set your work apart

4. Tethering with intention

   
   

These aren’t just upgrades—they’re investments in your professionalism, your style, and your longevity in this industry. Want to stand out from the sea of natural-light shooters? This is how.

See you in the studio.