Studio Tours

Recent episodes

1. Alena Florie from Studio Tours

   Aug 3, 2026

   The Tiny 88-Square-Foot Studio That Has Everyone Talking How much space do you really need to run a successful photography studio? Nikki Closser takes you behind the scenes of photographer Alena Florie's studio, and... it's only 88 square feet. Seriously. It's probably smaller than some people's walk-in closets. But somehow, she's created a space that functions beautifully. She photographs clients there, stores her gear, and has designed every inch with intention. Watching how she utilizes such a tiny footprint is honestly inspiring—and proof that creativity and smart design matter a whole lot more than square footage. So if you've been waiting for the "perfect" studio before taking the next step in your business, this conversation might be exactly the push you need. Let's dive in.

2. Meg Loeks: Creating Moody, Color-Rich Portraits in a Small Barn Studio from Studio Tours

   Jul 20, 2026

   In this episode of Studio Tours, host Nikki Closser heads to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to tour Meg Loeks' portrait studio, tucked into a small, unheated barn just steps from her house. Meg proves that a humble 16x20 space can produce strikingly bold, color-drenched work when it's designed with intention. Meg takes us behind the scenes of her creative process, showing how she painted each wall in her studio a different color to maximize versatility, and how she builds elaborate scenes — from a moss-covered "overgrown room" to a Beatles-inspired strawberry wall — using little more than antiques, gels, and an optical snoot. Along the way, she shares how she left a corporate marketing career to build a photography business rooted in classic Americana, color, and mood. Whether you're shooting out of a barn, a spare bedroom, or a corner of your living room, this episode is filled with inspiration for making the most of the space you have.

3. Shelley Franklin from Studio Tours

   Jun 17, 2026

   In this episode of Studio Tours, host Nikki Closser takes you to Shelley Franklin's stunning portrait studio in Arizona to prove that incredible photography doesn't require a massive, high-end space. Located in a strip mall, Shelley's studio demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform even the most unexpected location into a beautiful portrait studio. Shelley takes us behind the scenes of her workflow, showcasing how she photographs clients using both natural light and studio lighting within the same space. Along the way, she shares practical tips for maximizing a studio, creating versatile shooting areas, and producing high-end portraits. Whether you're working from a storefront, a spare room, or dreaming of opening your own studio, this episode is filled with inspiration and actionable ideas for making the most of the space you have.

4. Sue Bryce from Studio Tours

   Jun 17, 2026

   Ever wondered what Sue Bryce's studio really looks like? In this episode of Studio Tours, host Nikki Closser takes you on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the space where Sue creates her signature portraits. Sue shares the gear she uses, walks through every corner of her shooting space, and dispels the myth that photographers need a big, fancy studio to be successful. From lighting setups and equipment choices to the practical realities of running a portrait business, this studio tour offers an up-close look at Sue's workspace. Whether you're dreaming of opening a studio or looking to make the most of the space you already have, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world takeaways.