The Best Photo Shoot Venues For Hire

Introduction to Photoshoots

Modern and clean or creative and unusual, the photoshoot venue you choose says so much. The photoshoot venue choice is a fundamental element to a successful event. You may just be looking for a simple studio but it's also possible you'd like to get a bit more creative. Whatever your photoshoot location choice though, it's important that you utilise a venue that will complement your vision and theme.

We're here to show you the coolest, quirkiest, most impressive photoshoot venues in the UK, so you'll be able to plan the perfect shoot day in no time at all. With over 20,000 venues listed on our site, we provide the largest selection of venues for hire in the UK. You'll certainly be spoilt for choice here when it comes to photoshoot options. So, just enter your specifications into our venue search bar and discover the ideal photoshoot venue for your company. Alternatively, fill out our Venue Finder form with a few key details (budget, location, event type, capacity) and we’ll match you with photoshoot venues that you can then enquire with.

VenueScanner also offers an exclusive concierge service for our business clients. If you're booking a photoshoot - or any other event for that matter - our concierge team will be able to help you source the perfect venue. We'll find you a selection of photoshoot venues that match your specifications, produce an event brief with pricing, arrange viewings and confirm the venue.

Understanding Different Types of Photoshoot Venues

Photoshoots can take place pretty much anywhere, which is why VenueScanner is the place to go to find the best photoshoot venues. When you’re picking a photoshoot location you’ll first want to decide if you’d prefer an indoor or outdoor location. There are pros and cons to both, so it all depends on what your vision is for your shoot. If you choose an outdoor venue remember that the weather could potentially spoil your day, so see if you can find a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor so you can improvise if necessary.

Once you’ve decided if you’re going to do an indoor or outdoor photoshoot, it’s time to decide on the vibe. There are a number of specialised studios that are great for fashion, product, and portrait photography. They’ll often have lighting equipment and backdrops that you can use. Just make sure you ask the venue during your photoshoot planning. Alternatively, you can pick a more unique or themed venue and opt for a historical space in an old building or something more industrial like a warehouse. Some venues have incredible outdoor spaces where you can use the setting around you to enhance your work.

Best Practices for Choosing a Photoshoot Venue

The best photoshoot venues will tick all the boxes for what you need. It will look different for everyone, so make a list of what you’re looking for before you start your search. One thing to consider is how large the space is. Do you need a dressing room for models? How many people will be a part of the photoshoot? How much crew will be needed? Make sure the space you choose can fit everyone comfortably. If you’re looking for a studio space, you can usually find one in a city centre, surrounded by many public transport options. However, if you have a specific vision in mind, you may need to travel further afield, which means that parking should be available at the photoshoot location you choose. Before you book your photoshoot venue, discuss what sort of amenities are available on-site. Do you need to bring your own lighting equipment? Is there a dressing room? Will there be mirrors available if you need to do makeup? Is there wifi? These are all questions to ask the venue prior to making your booking. Finally, ask if there are any necessary permits you need. If your photoshoot location is somewhere historical, you may need a permit, so double check before the day so you’re prepared.

Lighting Considerations for Photoshoot Venues

You can’t have a successful photoshoot without good lighting! But what makes lighting good? The answer really depends on what you’re going for. Some photographers prefer natural lighting while others are happy with artificial lighting. If you’re happy to use artificial lighting make sure you know what’s available at the photoshoot venue. You may want to bring your own lightboxes, reflectors or diffusers with you so you can manipulate the lighting. If you’d rather use natural lighting, it’s best to find out what time of day the venue looks best and has the most lighting available.

Top Locations for Photoshoots

There are so many incredible photoshoot venues on VenueScanner. Here are a couple we think you’ll love.

English National Ballet

If you’re looking for a soundstage or large room that can be customised for your photoshoot needs, the English National Ballet in East London is an excellent choice. The Production Studio is a blank canvas that is great for large scale productions.

Victoria Warehouse

For a more industrial feel, you can check out Victoria Warehouse in Manchester. Another large venue, this is a space that can be utilised for your photoshoot. The space is raw and would look amazing as a backdrop for your photographs.

Minima

In Birmingham you can hire Minima, a 5000 sq ft warehouse space that can serve as a blank space for your upcoming photoshoot. The open plan space makes it an ideal photoshoot location.

Chocolate Studios

Finally, if you’re looking for a venue with substantial space and beautiful natural light, Chocolate Studios is a great choice. Located in Shoreditch in London, the space offers packages and would be an excellent photoshoot venue.

Creative Tips and Tricks for Photoshoots

Looking for some creative tips and tricks for photoshoots? Here are a few of our favourites:

Use the venue’s architecture and design elements as inspiration for your shoot. Embrace the venue and feature it in your photos. If you’re doing a fashion photoshoot, make intentional choices about which pieces of clothing you photograph in each room.

If you’ve booked an outdoor photoshoot and the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t panic! Can you utilise the weather conditions in your photographs? Wind or rain can add some intrigue to pictures.

Budgeting and Cost Considerations

Budgets will really differ for the best photoshoot venues. You can use most venues as a backdrop for a photoshoot, so no matter your budget, you’ll have a lot of choice. Make sure to ask any and all questions you can think of before you book a venue and sign a contract. You want to negotiate terms and avoid any hidden costs like cancellation fees, additional catering, use of equipment, etc. If you find a photoshoot venue you look but it’s a little bit out of your budget, speak with the manager. They may be flexible if you’re able to change the date or time of your shoot.