Southern Pines Photography Studio Open for Sessions

Earlier this summer an opportunity opened up for me to rent a studio space in the heart of Southern Pines, NC. To understand why I knew the space was for me I need to back up a little in my story…

Over a year ago I began looking casually at office/commercial spaces for lease in my area. I had seen this specific space available online but with just the photos I couldn’t imagine how the space was laid out and was uncomfortable reaching out to the broker to see it in person. The whole process of looking at commercial office space felt so out of my league that I ended up deciding it probably wasn’t for me (at least not at that time) and never pursued it.

I stopped looking and decided I would just wait until the timing felt more right or something came about that I knew was meant for me. Between then and now I was looking for studios allowing hourly rentals. I met with a local photographer in her space and realized this was the exact space I thought had so much potential but never had the guts to see. Once I was in the space I was so sad that I never even came to see it, but still felt that it wasn’t time for me to have my own space yet.

Now nearly a year later that photographer was looking for someone to fill the space for a year while she is away. The rental cost was going to be more than I could justify for how much I would use it but I was open to splitting the time/cost with other business owners should she find someone interested. It was hard to pass up but I knew it wouldn’t be smart to invest that much money at this time.

A few weeks later I was surprised to hear that she still hadn’t completely filled the space and had a couple of other businesses interested in sharing. If I was comfortable splitting the time and cost I could co-rent the space. In some cases, I might have jumped into a rash decision earlier but I waited patiently for either a yes or no answer and this one was clearly a YES.

It still feels a bit surreal and I’m not quite sure what I want to do with/in the space other than photography. I have different session ideas, personal projects, gatherings or classes, or just a quiet space to work when I need it. I’m sharing the space with two other business owners who I adore but we will have to manage a calendar to allow everyone time in the space. I’m also so excited to meet some of the other tenants on the floor and build some connections while learning about the work they do.

There is so much character in the space with exposed brick walls, wood floors, and a tin ceiling. The three big windows let in just the right amount of natural light and there is room for me to set up my big umbrella when I want to use it. I’m loving the location, being in the heart of Southern Pines and surrounded by so much history and many wonderful shops and restaurants.

I’m hoping to host some small gathering events to encourage community building. These would be small intimate social times where we might enjoy each other’s company or hear a speaker on topics like health/wellness, motherhood, entrepreneurship, photography, or creative talents. My head is spinning with ideas!

The studio is open now for sessions including family and branding sessions for your business. I’d love to work with local small businesses like florists, jewelers, clothing boutiques, artists, or anyone looking to have fun creating pretty images for whatever they want to share with the world! I have regular openings on Wednesday mornings starting in September. I’d love to hear your ideas and get a session booked!!