How Studio 8 Began
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Why I Started Studio 8
Photography has always been a passion of mine, but it’s no secret that turning that passion into a full-time career can be incredibly challenging. One of the biggest hurdles for many photographers is the cost of studio space. Renting a studio can easily cost thousands of dollars a month, a steep price that can feel out of reach for those just starting out or building their client base. I knew that struggle firsthand, and it sparked an idea: what if there was a way for photographers to access a professional, fully-equipped studio without the hefty financial commitment?
That’s how Studio 8 was born. I envisioned a space designed with high-quality sets and top-notch lighting equipment that photographers could rent by the hour. It would give them the opportunity to provide their clients with a professional experience without the burden of a full-time lease. Studio 8 was created to be an affordable, accessible solution for photographers who aren’t ready to take that big step but still want to offer excellence to their clients.
How Studio 8 Came to Life
The idea started as a simple daydream. I mentioned it to my boss at Lightworks Photo and Video, thinking it was just a passing thought. To my surprise, he thought it was a fantastic idea and encouraged me to pursue it. His enthusiasm turned that daydream into a plan, and together, we started searching for a commercial space. Before I knew it, we became business partners, working side by side to bring Studio 8 to life.
Finding the perfect space happened faster than I anticipated. Just two weeks after moving into my first home, we found the location that would become Studio 8. It felt like everything was happening all at once, and I started to wonder if I had bitten off more than I could chew. Was I really ready for this?
The Challenges and the Leap of Faith
At the time, I was 21 years old. I had just bought a starter home and was in the early stages of a great relationship. Suddenly, I was also committing to opening a business that felt both exciting and terrifying. I couldn’t sleep, my appetite disappeared, and doubt crept in. I was scared. What if this didn’t work? What if I ended up in financial trouble?
But then I had a moment of clarity. I told myself, If not now, when? At that point in my life, I didn’t have a family to support or major responsibilities tying me down. The timing, while overwhelming, also felt like an opportunity to take a calculated risk. I knew I needed to give it everything I had.
And so I did. I poured my heart and soul into Studio 8, working harder than I ever had before. I refused to let fear hold me back. Slowly but surely, the hard work started to pay off.
Three Years Later
Fast forward to today, and Studio 8 is thriving. It’s been over three years since we opened our doors, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve built. Photographers from all over have used our space to create stunning work and grow their own businesses, which was the dream all along.
On a personal level, life has flourished too. The person who supported me through those early, nerve-wracking days is now my fiancé, and I’m beyond grateful for his encouragement and belief in me.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Starting Studio 8 wasn’t easy, but it was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. It taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and believing in yourself even when the odds feel stacked against you. Most of all, it reinforced the importance of building something that not only benefits you but also supports others.
To anyone dreaming of starting something new: take the leap. It’s scary, and it might feel impossible at times, but the reward of seeing your vision come to life is worth every challenge. Studio 8 is proof of that.
Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey. Here’s to continuing to grow, dream, and create together.
