Your brand photoshoot is a powerful opportunity to tell your story, and the studio you choose plays a crucial role in setting the stage. With so many options in Calgary, how do you choose the right one?

It’s not just about the space; it’s about the feeling, the energy, and how it reflects your brand. After years of shooting in Calgary, I’ve got a few favorites, and I’m spilling the secrets on why they’re so special.

Studio Boheme: Cozy and Accessible

Studio Boheme is a charming, smaller studio with a unique feel. It’s a cozy, intimate space, perfect for those who prefer a more personal setting. The natural light from the west-facing window creates beautiful, almost artistic shadows, thanks to the window’s lattice. The studio itself has a minimalist, clean aesthetic, which allows your brand’s personality to shine. Blinds are available to help modify the natural light, and a reflector can help maximize the light.

It’s a great option for individuals or small teams, especially if the thought of a large studio stresses you out for your first brand shoot. The space is welcoming and accessible, both in size and price. This studio is ideal for wellness brands, creatives, or solopreneurs who want a relaxed and personal feel.

• Pros:
  • Smaller, accessible space, ideal for those who feel overwhelmed by larger studios.
  • Natural light with unique lattice shadows.
  • Central Calgary location with an accessible price point.
  • Recently updated with fabric backdrops and matching furniture.
  • Separate entryway for clothing racks or staging.
• Cons:
  • Parking can be challenging.
  • Smaller space limits shooting angles.
  • Props must be brought in.
• Best For:
  • Individuals or small teams (1-2 people).
  • Those who prefer natural light.

If you’re looking for a studio that feels approachable and authentic, Studio Boheme is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for capturing those genuine, intimate brand moments. Plan your shoot around the golden hour for the best shadows.

The Gallery Studio: Versatile and Spacious

The Gallery Studio is a dream for those who are looking for versatility and a treasure trove of amenities. It’s a sprawling, natural light studio that can comfortably host teams of any size, from solo shoots to full-blown productions. 

Here’s why I thinkThe Gallery Studio is a go-to for many:

• The sheer size of this studio is impressive. With a separate makeup area and bathroom, it’s designed for comfort and efficiency.
• The prop selection is truly extensive – this really sets it apart. You’ll find everything from stylish furniture to unique decor pieces, making it easy to create diverse and engaging visuals.
• The on-site backdrops and movable walls are wonderful! They’re updated throughout the year, ensuring your photos always have a fresh and contemporary look.
• While it’s primarily a natural light studio with massive windows, the high ceilings allow for seamless integration of off-camera lighting, giving you complete control over your shots.
• Unlike some commercial studios, The Gallery Studio has a warm and inviting atmosphere. It feels like a creative sanctuary, where you can relax and let your imagination run wild.

Of course, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The studio is located on the third floor, and there’s no elevator, so be prepared for a bit of a climb. (Don’t worry, we’ll help you carry your things.) Also, its South Calgary location might not be ideal for everyone, but trust me, the space is worth the trip.

• Pros:
  • Huge space with separate makeup area and bathroom.
  • Extensive prop selection.
  • On-site backdrops and movable walls (updated seasonally).
  • High ceilings, suitable for off-camera lighting.
  • Warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Cons:
  • No elevator (third-floor location).
  • South Calgary location (may be a con for some).
• Best For:
  • Teams of any size (up to 20 people).
  • Those seeking a wide variety of props and backdrops.
  • Anyone wanting a warm and welcoming editorial feel.

The Gallery Studio is truly a versatile space. It’s perfect for editorial shoots, lifestyle photography, and any brand that wants to create a polished and professional look. The movable walls allow you to customize the space to perfectly match your brand’s aesthetic. Plan your shoot around the time of day that the natural light fits your brand best.

Mas Studio: Professional and Commercial

Mas Studio is the go-to for those who want a professional, commercial space equipped with all the bells and whistles. It’s designed for serious productions, where advanced equipment and services are ideal. Think high-end fashion shoots, video productions, quirky conceptual shoots, and anything that requires a polished, commercial look.

Here’s what sets Mas Studio apart:

• The seamless, curved backdrop wall (the cyclorama) is perfect for creating clean, modern visuals. It’s ideal for projects where you need a flawless, uninterrupted background.
• From tethered shooting setups to specialized lighting gear, Mas Studio has everything you need for professional photo and video productions.
• Need to source models for your project?? Mas Studio works with some of the best modelling agencies in Canada and can facilitate the perfect models.
• Situated on 17th Ave, it’s easily accessible and offers both street and parkade parking.

Of course, there are some things to consider. The 17th Ave location, while convenient, can get quite busy. The studio is on the second floor, accessible by stairs, which might be a challenge for some. And while it’s a highly functional space, it can feel a bit overwhelming, especially for those new to brand photoshoots.

• Pros:
  • Cyclorama.
  • On 17th Ave location.
  • Model facilitation services available..
  • Equipment for photo and video shoots
  • Street and parkade parking.
• Cons:
  • 17th Ave location (can be busy).
  • Second-floor location (stairs).
  • Can feel overwhelming for first-time shoots.
• Best For:
  • Commercial shoots.
  • Photo and video productions.
  • Clients needing advanced equipment and services.
  • Fashion photography and editorial vibes.

Mas Studio has a distinct fashion photography and commercial shoot vibe. It’s a space where you can bring your most ambitious projects to life, knowing you have the tools and resources to make it happen. If you need a highly professional space, and all the bells and whistles, this is the place.

But sometimes, a studio isn’t the right fit. Let’s explore some other options.

When to Consider Other Locations for your Calgary Brand Shoot

Studios are great, don’t get me wrong. But sometimes, you need to tap into a different kind of energy, a vibe that a studio just can’t replicate. That’s when we get out beyond the studio walls. Here are some ideas:

Your Home Studio — Creating Intimacy & Trust

Sometimes you want to capture the cozy, familiar energy of your own space. Your home studio, your workspace, your personal sanctuary might be where you feel most comfortable, most authentic. 

This is perfect for service-based businesses where building trust and familiarity is key. Think wellness coaches, therapists, or artists whose creative process is deeply tied to their environment. 

By shooting in your space, you’re inviting viewers into your world, creating an instant connection. You’re basically saying, ‘Hey, come on in, this is me.’ It’s not just about the photo; it’s about showing people who you really are. If your home studio is a dark hole in your basement… we may consider creating some studio magic. The light matters.

Downtown Lobbies / Outdoor Locations — Embracing Movement

Now, if you want your brand to feel alive, like it’s got a pulse, you gotta get out there. Downtown lobbies, parks, anywhere with some buzz – that’s where the magic happens. Teams walking and talking, people just being themselves against cool backdrops. 

These locations are perfect for corporate teams who want to showcase their collaborative spirit, or for brands that thrive on energy and innovation. 

It’s about capturing the pulse of your brand, the energy that drives your business forward.

Basically, it comes down to this: what kind of feeling do you want? Sometimes, a studio is the perfect blank canvas, allowing you to control every aspect of the shoot. Other times, you need to break free and embrace the raw, authentic energy of a real-world setting. Trust your intuition, and let the location become an extension of your brand’s story.

In conclusion —

Your brand photoshoot is more than just capturing images; it’s about telling your story and connecting with your audience on a deeper level. The studio you choose plays a vital role in setting the stage for that narrative.

(We talk more about telling your brand story — and exactly how to do it — right here!)

So, whether you’re drawn to the intimate charm of Studio Boheme, the versatile space of The Gallery Studio, the professional feel of Mas Studio, or the raw energy of an outdoor setting, let your brand’s story guide you.

Choose a location that allows you to authentically express your vision and connect with your audience!