The problem with me is that I think a lot and talk a lot, and I find writing to be way behind my thoughts. Like today's post. I've purchased a studio space since October. Granted, it needed a LOT of work, and I mean a lot. Construction began almost immediately, and continued well into February before it was ready. I had to contain my excitement because a part of me was quite nervous about this venture - nervous but thrilled at the same time. 

I purchased a bungalow and converted it into a studio by knocking down most of the walls within and raising the ceiling height. The bungalow originally had 8 feet ceilings, which would have been extremely restrictive given my massive soft boxes and studio lighting equipment. Not to mention that I would feel that something was on top of my head as I am used to higher ceilings at my home. The contractors removed the original ceiling and somehow managed to raise it to 10 feet, cathedral style. We had to re-shingle as the old shingles were falling apart. Of course, we had to repaint the interior walls as well. Another huge but important investment was for the audio/visual equipment. I used a fantastic company called sparkAV (www.sparkav.com), and they put in a state-of-the-art A/V system. With this system, there are speakers through the studio, a Blu-Ray player, a ceiling-mounted projector, and a beautiful screen situated right above the fireplace. The whole idea is that when, you, my esteemed client, comes back for your ordering/viewing appointment that your photographs will be displayed via the projector onto the movie-like screen, whilst music is playing in the background. It will be like watching the best movie you've ever seen - a story about your family. I believe that this will take the "client experience" to a whole new level!

I've been shooting in my new studio since the latter weeks of March, though the studio is not yet completely finished. The walls are still empty as I attempt to find the perfect photographs to adorn them. The outside of the studio needs a lot of landscaping, which will begin next week. The landscaper has been hired, so it is a matter of getting things planted (I am no good with planting at all!!). There are little things that are needed - a coffee table, more studio samples, etc. It is still a work in progress! I keep wanting it to be "perfect" before I unveil the studio, but I know so many have been asking about it and wanting to see photographs. 

So yesterday, I took a few minutes to take some snapshots of what the studio looks like for now. As the outside gets landscaped and as the walls get updated with my art work, I will update my blog with more photographs. Speaking of wall art, I am excited to be offering a few new and exquisite frames. I have four pieces of art that are currently being framed in these said frames - they will knock your socks off! 

Viewing area:

Shooting area - I can use either studio lights or the natural light (north light!):

Gallery: