A friend of mine recently tried to photograph her new clothing line with just a phone camera to save some money. The idea sounded simple enough, but the results were a disaster—the lighting was harsh, the colours looked flat, and half the photos were blurry.
After a few failed attempts, she came to me to ask if I knew a better way. The problem? I’m not much of a photographer myself.
So I raised the idea to my Wunderlust London writing team. We began looking for photography studios in London in search of professionals who actually know how to make their subject look their best.
In this guide, we’ll share some of the top studios we found, so you know exactly where to go when you’re in the same situation as my friend or just want high-quality photos of yourself!
How much does renting a photography studio cost in London?
Renting a photography studio in London typically costs between £20 and £300 per hour or higher, depending on size, location, and included amenities.
How we chose the best photography studios in London
Studio quality: We searched for studios that are well-equipped, spacious, and have a comfortable atmosphere.
Customer service: We looked for studios with staff who provide support, such as helping with setting up, preparing props, and even offering technical assistance
Affordability: All studios on this list offer renting options that are within the standard cost of renting studios in London.
Creativity: We selected businesses with studios that spark creative ideas for clients, while some already have a creative set-up from the get-go
1. Candid Studios
Address: 302 Westbourne Grove
Business hours:
- Tue-Sun: 12 PM – 5 PM
We found Candid Studios’ concept great for shy people, especially for those who’ll book a session solo. Having no one but you in the studio will surely allow you to pose without any hesitation.
We love the flexibility in the packages as well. Their self-portrait studio sessions are available in five packages, each including a five-minute test shoot.
Plus, we appreciate that the staff really makes sure all is set before leaving you alone for your session.
What’s even better is they’ll curate background music based on your all-time favourite songs. This greatly helps in setting the mood, allowing you can give your all during the session.
The best part for us is that the photos are available on the same day! After the session, they’ll give you time to choose the photos you like and have them transferred to your email address within the day.
That said, make sure you’ll arrive on the day of your scheduled session, as they don’t issue a refund unless you have a valid reason.
I had such a fantastic experience
“I had such a fantastic experience at my shoot with Candid yesterday. The studio setup was thoughtfully designed and incredibly easy to navigate. The lovely ladies on-site were so welcoming and helpful, clearly explaining everything and making the entire process feel effortless. The photos are a 10 out of 10!! The quality is absolutely top-tier. I couldn’t be happier with the results. I would highly recommend Candid to anyone looking for a fun, professional photo experience. It’s excellent value for money, and I’ll definitely be returning soon. Thank you, Candid!”
-Shian Paul, Google Review
Everything about Candid is 10/10!
“Everything about Candid is 10/10!! I’d been following on Insta for some time and finally got the courage to book in a shoot for new headshots and photos for my business. From helpful emails in advance, to the friendly host and perfect studio – it was all such a fab experience. As someone who probably wouldn’t feel confident enough in front of a photographer I was so surprised at how relaxed I felt in the Candid Studios. Loved, loved, loved it and so happy with the photos I got too. Will be returning (next time with my toddler!) – thank you so much xxx”
-Amy Ward, Google Review
2. Pixel Studios
Address: Studio A & D, 55-57 Holmes Rd
Phone: +44 7716 945236
Business hours: Available 24/7
With two spacious studios, Pixel Studios is really great for big projects. What’s great is you can rent both studios and use the other one as a dressing room or waiting room for your clients, whichever fits your situation.
Another great thing is that their studios are available for hire 24/7. This gives you flexible scheduling options throughout the week.
What sets them apart is, though, their range of lighting options. You can choose either Bowens XMS500 flashes, two Amaran 200d, or one Bowens and one Amaran. It all depends on the amount of brightness your team will need during the session.
Aside from lighting options, we love that they take care of the small things too. They provide a range of props, such as posing tables, pollyboards, and more.
However, the basement studios have limited mobile phone reception on some networks. You might consider this especially when you must be constantly in contact with someone during the shoot.
I highly recommend this place
“I used this studio for a shoot yesterday, and it truly exceeded my expectations. At first, I was sceptical of the perfect 5-star ratings, for such an affordable studio – but I now understand why! Michal was extremely helpful, especially since I’m new to studio photography, and he even kindly lent me some equipment I’d forgotten. The studio (I used Studio ONE) was spacious and comfortable, with a changing tent and easy access to toilets and other amenities. Overall, a fantastic experience – I highly recommend this place and will certainly be returning! Thank you:)”
-Jess Curtis, Google Review
I’ll definitely be back soon!
“I had the pleasure of shooting at this studio a few days ago and honestly can’t recommend it enough! I used Studio Two and was so impressed by the space — it’s beautifully laid out, with a fantastic makeup area and a private changing space that made the whole experience super smooth and professional. The studio owner was incredibly friendly and accommodating from start to finish, and the quality of the lighting and equipment was genuinely top-tier. It felt like such a safe, well-managed environment, and we had no trouble fitting a full team in comfortably. 1000% recommend this place to anyone looking for a high-end, welcoming space to shoot in. I’ll definitely be back soon!”
-Ellie Charnley, Google Review
3. Cineview Studios
Address: Unit 4, Brookmarsh Industrial Estate, 70 Norman Rd
Phone: +44 20 8305 2849
Business hours: Available 24/7
We were very impressed by Cineview Studios’ not just two, but four studios with various features. There’s one with a green screen backdrop, an all-black studio, and a space so big you can shoot your car.
The wet or dry studio hire options are definitely a huge plus. It’s cost-effective as it allows bigger teams to cut expenses, while providing smaller teams with a skilled crew at a reasonable price.
In addition, the discount they give to those who’ll rent a studio for multiple days is a green flag. What’s even better is that the longer you rent, the higher the discount they will give.
Lastly, who doesn’t love free drinks? When we went to visit, we really enjoyed the free coffee and tea during the session.
That said, their studios are often fully booked. We highly advise contacting them as soon as possible to secure your slot.
I really enjoyed the experience
“I shot some ads at Cineview for three days in September 2024 and really enjoyed the experience. Dipesh the studio manager is great! He was extremely helpful before, during and after the job. He arranged a pre-light of the cove which worked out awesome, shooting in front of both green and white cove. Cineview has a good selection of equipment available to hire, we made use of their cine lenses and various other stands and grip. The studio itself is spacious, with a cozy kitchen and makeup area, large white cove with two sides, useful drapes on curtain rails, plentiful power outlets and a great bluetooth speaker available to use also. Overall, great experience and I look forward to shooting there again! Thanks!”
-Soft Graze, Google Review
Incredibly accommodating and professional
“I recently had the pleasure of using Cineview Studios for a green screen project, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the service I received. From start to finish, my experience with this studio was nothing short of exceptional. First and foremost, the staff here were incredibly accommodating and professional. They helped me plan and execute my project with precision, offering valuable insights and suggestions along the way. Their expertise was evident from the moment I walked through the door. The studio space itself was top-notch. The green screen setup was pristine, well-lit, and equipped with all the necessary tools and technology to ensure a successful shoot. I was impressed by the attention to detail in creating a versatile and user-friendly environment.”
-Jordan Wade, Google Review
4. Old Time Photo Studio
Address: 156 Brompton Rd
Phone: +44 7828 245290
Business hours:
- Mon-Sun: 12 PM – 8 PM
We love Old Time Photo Studio’s vibrant atmosphere. The bright colours throughout the space, the dynamic lighting, and the lively people make it a place for nothing but fun photoshoots.
We see their studio as the ideal space for concept-driven photoshoots. This is because all the things you’ll see here will remind you of something, from props to backdrops.
If you’ll shoot for Halloween, Christmas, or other seasonal occasions, we highly recommend them. They have so many costumes in store, from old-school to modern eras.
What’s even better is their creative backdrops. You can be in the Wild West, have a Victorian or Tudor setting, or even have a gangster atmosphere in the studio.
However, they provide limited photography equipment. It’s not a problem, though, if you only want to have fun with your friends or family.
We’re absolutely thrilled with the entire experience
“My girlfriend and I recently had the most enchanting Victorian-themed photoshoot at Photo Studio by the photographer named Mido and we are absolutely thrilled with the entire experience and the stunning results. From start to finish, it was truly a step back in time! Upon arrival, we were immediately impressed by the studio’s attention to detail. The atmosphere was perfectly set, and the range of authentic Victorian costumes and props was simply incredible. We felt like we had walked onto a film set! The staff were incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, helping us select outfits that perfectly suited our vision and the era.”
-Hrithik kumar Singh, Google Review
We were all beyond impressed
“I had an amazing experience with Mido! He is incredibly knowledgeable and professional, making the entire photoshoot effortless and enjoyable. From helping us choose the perfect outfits to directing us with confidence, his expertise truly showed. He is by far the most experienced photographer when it comes to capturing stunning shots. I booked a session for my birthday with four of my friends, and we were all beyond impressed with his work. I highly recommend his services!”
-Sailor “Sailor”, Google Review
5. Arch Photo Studio
Address: Arch 267, Railway Arches, Urlwin St
Phone: +44 7973 844035
Business hours:
- Mon-Thu: 8 AM – 7 PM
- Fri: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sat-Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM
Arch Photo Studio is perfect for product photoshoots due to the range of plain backdrops they have. They have clean classics like white and bold colours like pink to match every vibe.
Not only that, they also provide a range of equipment perfect for your products. They have different kinds of chairs, bar equipment, and even artificial plants. They all help in adding context to the shoot.
Aside from props, their photography equipment is also extensive. They have Bluetooth speakers, projects, and more. You don’t need to have everything because they have hundreds of equipment in store.
What’s even better is their package includes almost all you’ll need during a photoshoot. You can use all their lighting equipment and props during the session. They also provide a smoke machine for free.
The only problem is that they have a naturally noisy background. This is because they’re situated near a railway, so there’s a regular train noise.
We’re very satisfied
“Excellent value for a professional in-studio photoshoot! Our production booked Robbie for a 3-hour promo and portrait session, and were very satisfied with the experience. Robbie was an engaging and collaborative photographer who helped bring our creative ideas to life. We had brought many (5-6) options for each item of clothing, and together matched up a wide assortment of outfits, from casual headshots to wedding portraits – all in one session. Robbie even proactively reached out ahead of time to confirm what we wanted to get out of the shoot, so he could prepare accordingly and use set-up time more efficiently. We highly recommend for solo or small groups, especially with a clear creative vision that can bring ideas/clothes/props to the session.”
-Arsalan Akhavan, Google Review
My first time experience was amazing
“I just booked Arch Photo Studio for the first time and my experience was amazing. A true 5-star experience. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Robbie is absolutely amazing and was there to help all along, setting up the lights and giving his much-appreciated creative input. It was my first time booking a studio and I felt very welcome, safe and supported in the studio- Thank you very much. The facilities and gear are also TopTier. The location has high ceilings which allows for many more creative angles. I can not recommend this studio enough and I will be back for future shoots.”
-Tim Schein, Google Review
