Photographer’s Guide to Studio Hire: Lighting, Backdrops & Setup

If you’re looking to level up your photoshoots or video productions, studio hire might be the missing link. Whether you’re an emerging creative, an entertainer producing promo content, or part of a brand’s marketing team, understanding how to maximise your studio time is key.

In this Photographer’s Guide to Studio Hire, we’ll break down the essentials — from lighting and backdrops to setup and smart planning — so your next session is smooth, stress-free and standout.

At TSS Studios, we offer a premium dry hire space located in the heart of the Sutherland Shire. Our fully equipped green screen studio, adjustable lighting grid, acoustic blackout curtains, and beauty stations are here to elevate your next production — big or

small.

Why Studio Hire is Worth It

Shooting in a studio gives you full creative control. Unlike outdoor shoots, you won’t be battling harsh sun, unpredictable rain, or background noise. Everything is tailored to your vision — lighting, angles, ambience. Plus, you have access to professional-grade tools you may not have at home or on-location.

At TSS Studios, our studio hire gives you a clean, quiet, and versatile space with everything from a green screen cyclorama to adjustable LED lighting. You focus on the creative — we provide the ideal setup.

Lighting: Your Make-or-Break Factor

Let’s be real: lighting can make or break your entire shoot. Whether you’re after soft, natural vibes or a dramatic cinematic look, lighting dictates the mood, texture, and depth of your visuals.

TSS Studios features a LED lighting grid with LightPro Ultrasoft rectangular 66R Continuous LED Panels — adjustable to suit your vision. Here’s how to approach lighting for studio work:

Tips for lighting success:

• Know your subject – Portraits need soft light; product shots may benefit from more contrast.

• Use multiple light sources – Think key, fill, and backlight.

• Test before you shoot – Always take a few test shots or video snippets to review your setup.

• Modify light – Use diffusers or bounce cards to soften shadows.

• Play with placement – Lighting from above creates depth, while side-lighting adds drama.

You don’t have to be a lighting expert to make it work. Our on-site concierge can assist you with setting up lighting if you’re new to it — or just need an extra set of hands.

Backdrops: Create Any World You Want

Backdrops are more than just a background. They help set the tone, tell your story, and draw focus to your subject. At TSS Studios, we give you a flexible, professional range to choose from:

Options include:

• Chromakey Green Cyclorama Wall (4.5m x 3m) – Perfect for special effects, immersive edits, or branding overlays.

• Motorised Black Velvet Curtains – Create a moody, cinematic atmosphere or block out all external light for full blackout control.

• TV Monitor Backdrops – Display custom graphics, branding, or dynamic imagery during your shoot.

Not sure which to use? Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Project Type	Best Backdrop
Headshots / Portraits	Black or Grey
Product Demos	Green Screen
Interviews / Reels	TV Monitor
Music Videos	Green Screen + Curtains
Corporate Videos	TV Monitors / Neutral

You can even switch between backdrops mid-session. Our studio is designed for flexibility — so you can shoot multiple styles in one go.

Setup & Space Planning

Before you arrive, plan out your shoot. Think of it like setting the stage before the performance. Being prepared will save you time (and stress) on the day.

Here’s what to consider:

• Shot list – Know exactly what you need to capture.

• Equipment checklist – Bring your own gear or hire what you need.

• Crew & talent – Who’s involved? Make sure everyone knows call times.

• Layout – Where will your subject stand? Where will your camera be placed?

• Power access – Know where plugs are (we’ve got plenty).

TSS Studios is more than just four walls. With a dedicated beauty room, changeroom, guest lounge, and even a kitchen/bar, you and your crew have space to breathe, relax, and reset between shots.

And yes — onsite parking is included, because we get it. You don’t want to haul heavy gear down the street.

Bonus Studio Tips for First-Timers

If it’s your first time hiring a studio, here’s how to get the most out of it:

✔ Book a studio tour beforehand – We offer free tours so you can check out the space and plan ahead.

✔ Plan ahead – Give yourself time to bump in, set up and settle in.

✔ Bring snacks & water – Keep energy levels up.

✔ Label your files – If you’re filming, bring a hard drive and organise your footage.

✔ Test your gear – Don’t find out something’s broken when the clock’s ticking.

Photographer’s Guide to Studio Hire: Final Thoughts

The right studio can be the difference between an average session and one that blows your client (or audience) away. Whether you’re crafting a short-form ad, shooting product images, or creating social content, this Photographer’s Guide to Studio Hire is your go-to for planning, prepping, and executing a stellar studio shoot.

At TSS Studios, we make the process easy, affordable and high-quality — so you can focus on doing what you do best: creating. Ready to see the space for yourself? Book a tour or contact us to chat about your next project.