How to set up your own DIY photoshoot.

Discover everything you need for at-home photoshoots to capture professional photos and creative shots, plus some photoshoot ideas to inspire your next session.

Whether you want to play around with artistic shots or snap some photos of your friend’s new baby, creating a DIY photoshoot setup has never been easier. To create your own, all you need is some space and a few pieces of equipment. Let’s dive into what it takes to create your own studio.

Choose the best available space.

Not everyone has enough space for an entire photoshoot studio, and that’s OK. All you need is enough space to hang a backdrop while also giving enough distance from your subject to your camera.

When choosing where to set up, pay attention to how the light affects your desired space throughout the day. If you can set up your space by a window, that will provide soft natural light and add another visual element to your photoshoots.

Collect the gear.

In addition to your camera and a tripod, a few extra pieces of equipment will give you a workable DIY setup:

• Backgrounds and backdrops. Keeping a few background options on hand will provide versatility to your shoots. Canvas, muslin, lace, bedsheets, and paper rolls are all excellent — and inexpensive — materials to try.
• Clamps and duct tape. In order to hang your background(s), clamps are easy to use and manipulate. Have duct tape on hand to subtly secure props into position.
• Lighting equipment. Photoshoot lighting and reflectors will help provide the necessary light and improve your skills as you learn how to control and modify each element during your DIY shoot.
• Props. It’s helpful for positioning in both portrait and product photography to have appropriate props available.
• Folding table. For ergonomic comfort, use a table when you photograph small items. Fold it up when not in use to save space.

For additional inspiration, discover photography tips and techniques to try.

Explore what you can do with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom as you begin experimenting with your own DIY photoshoots.