Escaping the Studio

The best studio images transport the viewer to another world, their stories unconstrained by the walls within which they were created. In this workshop led by fashion photographer Boe Marion, participants discover the limitless possibilities of studio photography and learn to harness their inner creativity while working commercially or on a personal project. 

Over the course of three days in New York City, we explore how lighting, art design, and a clear connection to your vision can transform a simple concept into a powerful narrative—without ever leaving the studio. Based at a professional, commercial studio in Brooklyn, participants have the opportunity to craft imagery using industry-standard equipment and receive Boe’s professional guidance and feedback in real time.

We begin by discussing the timeline of a studio shoot—starting with conceptualization. Boe shares how to refine your idea with the studio in mind and prepare a pitch for commercial clients that stands apart. Shaped by real-world examples from experience in the industry, Boe offers insight into best business practices, client communication, and building a successful budget.

Boe then introduces essential lighting set-ups and shares how to build a small, self-contained world of creative freedom within the studio space. Through demonstrations and hands-on exercises, you learn to craft dynamic lightning that controls the viewer’s understanding of space and dimension, and elevates your visual narrative beyond the four walls of the studio. We also discuss the importance of color, set design, and crafting your scene with intentionality.

Next, we explore working and collaborating with talent. Boe invites you to think outside the box when working with models and to expand your directing skillset. You learn to understand your subject within a larger composition, embracing movement, action, gesture, and geometry in service of your story. This workshop includes the opportunity to work directly with models and practice bringing your vision efficiently to life while facing the time constraints of a real-life shoot.

On the final day, we review our images as a group and discuss considerations for editing and post-processing. Boe offers additional suggestions on how to extend your imagery using creative techniques, including printing, collaging, and scanning. We discuss the potential of combining digital and analog processes, and how moving beyond the single image can help you stand out within the industry. You walk away with an expanded understanding of how to output and reinterpret your final image. 

Finally, Boe shares how to integrate all of these considerations into a personal, flexible workflow that feels anything but limiting. Whether you are seeking to work with fashion, commercial, or editorial clients, this workshop is designed to elevate and expand your practice. Join us for three days in New York to jumpstart your approach to studio photography and harness the endless possibilities of your creativity.