FAQ: how do i find a beautiful indoor shoot location? 5 of the best resources

I’ve always had a thing for beautiful interiors and thoughtfully designed spaces. A major perk of my job (which, totally doesn’t feel like “work”) is scouting shoot location options for my clients that align with their brand, fit the budget and provide just the aesthetic we’re going for.

I’m often asked where to find the best shoot locations and am here to fill you in on five of my favorite resources. Whether it’s a backyard pool in the country, a chic city apartment or a clean slate photo studio, I’ve got you covered.

**I should also note, this post does not cover permitting, which varies by space, shoot type and city. Do your production homework to ensure you’re covered!

Home Studio photo shoot location in San Francisco, featuring founder Hannah Pobar (center) and team

1 - HOME STUDIO

Beautiful, home studios in 30+ states, created specifically for photographers

This one tops my list, as nothing compares to Home Studio, which offers beautifully styled, hourly home rentals all over the US. I first connected with the talented founder, Hannah Pobar, when I was regularly renting out her stunning home studios for my client shoots. And since, I’ve actually started shooting for Home Studio itself. So yes — full disclaimer they are a client — but they topped my list long before that (and yes, it’s a total dream project!)

Hannah is a photographer herself, and saw a need for more home studio options for shoots. So, she rolled her sleeves up and created it. Home Studio stands out from the rest because of Hannah and team’s thoughtful curation, EVERY home is well-styled and bonus: provides many props to incorporate in your photos too.

I should also mention, personally every host I’ve worked with is incredibly helpful and kind!

Shipt advertising shoot in SF Peerspace rental: Mission Loft

2 - PEERSPACE

Studios, homes, offices that can be used for shoots and gatherings

Peerspace brings the variety with its spaces. You can find well-designed homes, quirky local spots or more traditional photo/film studios. Peerspace stands out for its quantity, so you may have to do some digging to find just the right spot, but you’re likely to find one.

With this service, you communicate directly with the host. I’ve worked with a few spaces numerous times and have also had such a great experience getting to know the hosts. Two of my favorites: Mission Loft and Narrowest Shop SF.

Tiffany Han, coach and podcaster, captured in an Oakland Breather space

3 - BREATHER

Clean, modern office-style spaces for shoots or meetings

I find Breather to be perfect for personal branding shoots, when you’re looking for a clean slate or minimal office/home vibe with a small crew.

With Breather, every space was designed in the company’s style, so you know what to expect with aesthetic. The minimal design also allows for plenty of propping and customization, so you can really make it your own.

This option is very DIY, with no host onsite. They’ll provide you with a code and detailed info to get inside. That said, I’ve had a good experience when connecting with their team via email too.

I’ve only used Breathers in San Francisco and Oakland, and some of the spaces are pretty petite. If it looks like a Breather might be small, or you’re unsure about light (often in commercial buildings, with windows on one wall only), reach out to the Breather team and see if you can scout in advance.

Seghesio Family Vineyard’s captured in Graton, Ca Airbnb

4 - AIRBNB

Beautiful selection of homes, but you must get the ‘okay’ from the host

While Airbnb isn’t my personal go-to for shoot locations, a few of my clients have found absolute gems through the service (we’re talking wine country pool gems)! I may be stating the obvious, but the benefit here is quantity of homes and locations… you can find a stylish home just about anywhere.

Since Airbnb is designed for overnight stays, and not productions, the key here is full transparency with your host about what you’re looking to do within the space. If a host is open to your team shooting within their space, this can be a great option. Keep in mind the normal check-in/check-out hours aren’t ideal for typical shoot hours, so that’s something you should work out with your host too.

If it’s your first time using Airbnb, use this link for $40 off a home booking.

PaperCape kids clothing line captured in a private family home in San Francisco

5 - FRIENDS’ homes OR FAVORITE LOCAL SPOTS

Okay it’s not a service, but Occasionally It’s just needeD

While I highly recommend the above services for a seamless experience, occasionally our creative direction calls something really specific, or: very short and sweet. For example: let’s say you’re looking for 20 minutes in a bathroom with brass fixtures and white subway tile for two quick products shots OR a lifestyle shoot in a modern coffee shop with fun, colorful tile. If you’ve spotted that specific style locally (be it your neighborhood cafe, a boutique hotel or your friend’s cousin’s apartment), it’s worth reaching out.

This will likely involve more time on communication with those who aren’t used to working on productions. Fill them in on what you need from them, and exactly what the day and timeline will look like. Offer payment, product and or even photos of their space in exchange. Bonus: cover their cleaning services too.

So at the end of the day this is a more hands-on approach, but if it provides just the right look, with some fun and flexibility along the way, I say go for it.

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