No Studio Needed: How to Create Amazing Photos Anywhere

Let’s be real — unlike the name might suggest, traditional studios aren’t my thing. I don’t like to work in a perfectly controlled white-walled space, and honestly? I’ve always been about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. My studio isn’t confined to four walls — it’s everywhere. I love the challenge of making something out of nothing. Finding unexpected locations pushes my creativity, and there’s something exciting about turning the everyday into something magic.

So if you’re stuck without a studio or just feeling uninspired by your usual go-to spots, here’s a little guide to finding locations where you least expect them.

1) Bathrooms – The Unexpected Goldmine

Everyone who knows me knows I LOVE a bathroom shoot. There’s something so visually interesting about them — whether it’s a grand vintage clawfoot tub or the stark minimalism of modern tiling. The mix of reflections, running water, steam, mirrors, and textures makes bathrooms an absolute dream.

Pro tip: The shower glass? Instant soft-focus. The mirror? A framing tool. The window light? Perfect diffusion. If you're ever stuck, find a bathroom. Trust me.

And let’s talk about bathtubs…because they’re an editorial dream. There are so many ways to use a bathtub in a shoot:

• Fill it with bubbles, flowers, or fabric for a dreamy, artistic vibe.

• Submerge the subject in coloured water, just their face peeking through, for instant drama.

• No water? No problem. A subject sitting in an empty bathtub, fully clothed, can feel edgy, unexpected, and cinematic. It’s all about how you frame the shot and play with angles

2) Windows – Framing & Nostalgic Vibes

Windows are an incredible tool for composition. One of my favourite techniques? Photographing the subject from outside while they pose in the open window. It adds a timeless, nostalgic feel, almost like a still from an old film.

Ways to experiment:

• Shoot through the glass for dreamy, layered reflections.

• Have your subject lean on the sill for an effortless, natural feel.

• Work with different times of day — golden hour vs. moody overcast lighting.

3) The Ground – Think Texture, Colour & Close-ups

Limited space? No problem. Lay your subject on the ground and build the scene around them. Different fabrics, textures, colours — whatever you have on hand can completely transform the shot.

Ideas to play with:

• A bed of flowers, fabric, or autumn leaves.

• Overhead compositions for an editorial look.

• Concrete or tiled floors for a gritty, urban aesthetic.

4) Trees & Gardens – Make Nature Interesting

Sure, gardens can sound predictable, but it’s all about perspective. Climb a tree, shoot through branches, use leaves to frame your subject. Instead of just standing in front of flowers, get weird with angles.

Try this:

• Shoot up from below for a larger-than-life feel.

• Use shadows and dappled light for texture.

• Play with motion — hair blowing in the wind, hands moving through leaves.

5) Mirrors – Reflections, Layers & Playing with Perspective

Mirrors are the ultimate cheat code in photography. They instantly add layers, depth, and mystery. You can use them to distort reality, create symmetry, or frame a subject in a way that makes the viewer look twice.

Experiment with:

• Fragmented reflections — capture only part of the subject’s face.

• Using multiple mirrors for a surreal, endless effect.

• Shooting the reflection instead of the subject for a fresh perspective.

6) Water – Endless Possibilities

One of my all-time favourites: shooting in water. Whether it’s a pool, the ocean, a lake, or even a backyard kiddie pool (yes, really), water adds an ethereal quality that’s impossible to fake.

Ways to use water:

• Capture the subject half-submerged for a moody, surreal effect.

• Shoot tight close-ups with water droplets for texture.

• Play with movement — hair floating, ripples, splashes.

7) House Nooks & Crannies – The Hidden Gems

When shooting in a house, don’t just stick to the obvious spots. The kitchen window with golden-hour light? A winner. The hallway with moody shadows? Dramatic. Even something as mundane as the side of the house or an old clothesline (Hills Hoist, anyone?) can be visually striking.

Secret spots to explore:

• Doorways — use them to frame your subject.

• Charming Vintage houses — peeling paint, worn-out walls, and hidden corners add depth.

• The Laundry, garage, or staircases — unexpected, but they work.

8) Walls – Minimalism with a Punch

Never underestimate a plain wall. A clean, neutral backdrop can act as the perfect blank canvas for light and shadow play. Take it further by playing with different lights — coloured gels, neon lights, or even a simple lamp can transform a plain wall into a vibrant, cinematic backdrop.

Try this:

• Play with harsh sunlight to create bold shadows and shapes on the wall.

• Bold wallpaper can bring some serious character to a shot…don’t be afraid to use it.

• Try shooting silhouettes against the wall for a simple yet dramatic vibe.

9) Laying in the Grass – Soft, Dreamy & Earthy

Grass is one of the easiest, most accessible backdrops. Lush, overgrown grass creates a romantic, storybook aesthetic, while dry, golden fields bring a raw, earthy feel.

Ideas to try:

• Shoot overhead, capturing the subject nestled in the grass.

• Scatter wildflowers or leaves for extra texture.

• Contrast the softness of grass with unique styling…a bold suit or dramatic makeup

10) The Couch – It’s Not Just for Sitting

A couch? Sounds basic. But with the right styling, angles, and light, a couch is anything but boring. Play with poses — laying upside down, draped over the armrest, sprawled out with moody lighting.

Why it works:

• Everyone has one — it’s an easy, accessible setup.

• It creates a relaxed, editorial feel without trying too hard.

• Textures matter — velvet, leather, or even an old, worn-out couch can add depth

The World is Your Studio!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you don’t need a high-end studio to create breathtaking images. Some of my favourite shots have come from the most unexpected places — a run-down hotel bathroom, a quiet laneway, a patch of light on a blank wall.

See potential in the ordinary. Challenge yourself to find beauty in the everyday. The best location? It’s whatever you make it. So, go out there and shoot!

Looking for a creative Melbourne portrait or fashion photographer? Whether it's bold, intimate, or something totally unexpected, I love working with eclectic creatives on shoots that challenge the norm. Get in touch, and let's create something amazing together.