Using a Photography Studio for Podcasting & Video Podcasts

Video podcasting has exploded — and podcasters need studio space. The typical home recording setup (ring light, bookshelf background, laptop mic) is being replaced by professional studio environments that look as good as they sound.

Photography studios are natural fits for podcast production: controlled environments, existing lighting infrastructure, professional aesthetics, and enough space for multi-person conversations. The gap is audio — and it's bridgeable.

Why Photo Studios Work for Podcasts

What they already have:

• Controlled lighting (adapting to continuous LED is straightforward)
• Professional backgrounds and aesthetic
• Adequate space for 2–4 person setups
• Power infrastructure for equipment
• Climate control for multi-hour sessions
• [Multiple aesthetic options](/blog/photography-studio-backdrop-guide) for visual variety

What they need to add:

• Acoustic treatment (the main gap)
• Dedicated microphones
• Multi-camera capability
• Monitor for framing reference

Audio Setup for Studio Podcasting

The Non-Negotiable: Acoustic Treatment

Photography studios are acoustically terrible for audio. Hard walls, concrete floors, and high ceilings create reverb that makes speech sound hollow and unprofessional.

Minimum treatment for podcast-quality audio:

• 4–6 acoustic panels on the wall behind and beside the speakers
• Area rug or carpet under the recording area
• Moving blankets on C-stands flanking the recording zone (budget option)

See our [soundproofing guide](/blog/photography-studio-soundproofing-guide) for detailed treatment approaches.

Microphone Options (Per Person)

Each speaker needs their own microphone. Dynamic microphones are preferred for studio podcasting because they reject room noise better than condensers.

Popular podcast microphones:

| Microphone | Type | Price | Why Podcasters Use It |

|---|---|---|---|

| Shure SM7B | Dynamic | $399 | Industry standard. Rich, broadcast-quality tone. |

| Electro-Voice RE20 | Dynamic | $449 | Classic broadcast mic. Natural, clean sound. |

| Rode PodMic | Dynamic | $99 | Excellent value. Great tone for the price. |

| Shure MV7 | Dynamic/USB | $249 | USB + XLR dual connectivity. Versatile. |

| Audio-Technica AT2020 | Condenser | $99 | Budget condenser. Needs treated room. |

Dynamic vs. Condenser in a studio:

• Dynamic microphones pick up less room noise — better for untreated or partially treated spaces
• Condenser microphones capture more detail but also more room reverb — only use in well-treated spaces

Audio Interface / Recorder

Connects microphones to your recording system:

• Rodecaster Pro II ($699) — All-in-one podcast production console. Handles 4 mics, sound pads, Bluetooth phone call integration, built-in recording.
• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 / 4i4 ($180–$250) — Clean, reliable USB interfaces. 2 or 4 mic inputs.
• Zoom PodTrak P4/P8 ($220–$500) — Portable podcast recorder with built-in effects and headphone outputs.

Headphones

Each speaker should monitor their own audio through closed-back headphones:

• Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ($149) — The podcasting standard
• Sony MDR-7506 ($99) — Flat, accurate monitoring

Video Setup for Video Podcasts

Camera Configuration

Most video podcasts use 2–3 cameras:

Minimum (2-camera):

• Camera 1: Wide shot capturing both speakers
• Camera 2: Tight on the primary host

Standard (3-camera):

• Camera 1: Wide shot
• Camera 2: Tight on Host A
• Camera 3: Tight on Host B (or guest)

Budget option: Use smartphones as secondary cameras with apps like Camo or EpocCam. A single dedicated camera handles the wide shot.

Lighting for Video Podcasts

Adapt the studio's lighting for continuous video use:

• Key light per speaker: LED panel or softbox at 45 degrees, above eye level. Match color temperature across all lights (5500K daylight standard).
• Background lighting: Accent lights, colored LEDs, or practical lamps to create depth behind the speakers.
• Avoid overhead fluorescents — they create unflattering shadows under the eyes and often have green color casts.

See our [video content guide](/blog/video-content-creation-photography-studio) for detailed video lighting setups.

Background Design

Podcast backgrounds should be intentional and branded:

• Bookshelves — Classic, intellectual, approachable
• Neon sign with show name or logo — Branded, recognizable
• Plants and lifestyle elements — Warm, inviting
• Studio equipment visible — Authentic, behind-the-scenes feel
• Acoustic panels (styled) — Functional treatment that doubles as visual design. Some studios use fabric-wrapped panels in brand colors.

Avoid: plain white walls (sterile), cluttered backgrounds (distracting), visible messy equipment behind speakers.

Studio Layout for Podcasting

Optimal Room Configuration

• Back: Background wall with styling/panels
• Middle: Guest mic + Host mic facing each other, with table/desk between
• Guest cam and Host cam on tripods at each side
• Front: Wide camera on tripod capturing both speakers
• Side walls: Acoustic panels
• Floor: Rug under recording area

Table vs. No Table

• With table: Provides a place for microphones (on boom arms), notes, water, and products. More natural for conversation. The standard for interview-style podcasts.
• Without table: Cleaner visual, more flexibility for movement. Better for solo hosts or casual conversation formats. Microphones go on boom stands beside the speakers.

Comfort Details

Podcast recordings run 45–90 minutes per episode. Comfort matters:

• Adjustable chairs (not stools — back support for long recording)
• Water within arm's reach (not visible in frame)
• Clock or timer visible to the host (not visible to the camera)
• Temperature at 68–70°F (speaking generates heat; the room warms up)

Finding Studio Space for Podcasting

Many photography studios don't advertise podcast capability, but they have what you need (space, power, aesthetics) with minor adaptation.

Questions to Ask

1. Is there acoustic treatment or can I bring panels/blankets?

2. Do you have continuous LED lighting?

3. Can I leave a semi-permanent setup if I book weekly? (Reduces setup time)

4. What's the ambient noise level? (HVAC, traffic, neighbors)

5. Is there a table or desk available?

6. Can I visit during my planned recording time to test audio?

Recurring Bookings

Podcasters should negotiate recurring rates — weekly bookings at the same time:

• 10–20% discount vs. drop-in rates
• Consistent setup (some studios will hold your configuration between sessions)
• Priority booking on your preferred time slot

See our [pricing guide](/blog/photography-studio-rental-by-hour-vs-day) for rate negotiation strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I produce a professional podcast in any photo studio?

With basic acoustic treatment (portable panels or moving blankets), a quality dynamic microphone, and continuous lighting — yes. The studio provides the space and aesthetics. You provide the audio gear.

How much does podcast studio rental cost?

$50–$150/hour at most photography studios. A 2-hour recording session costs $100–$300. Weekly recurring bookings with discounts: $300–$800/month. Compare this to a dedicated podcast studio rental ($100–$300/hour) and the savings are significant. See our [affordable studios guide](/blog/cheapest-photography-studio-rentals-by-city).

Should I build a dedicated podcast room or rent studio time?

If you're recording 4+ episodes per month, building a dedicated room (even in your home) saves money within 6–12 months. If you're recording 1–2 per month, studio rental is more economical. See our [home studio guide](/blog/home-photography-studio-setup-guide).

Can I do both photography and podcasting in the same studio session?

Yes — batch production. Record the podcast first (audio priority — don't want to be fatigued for the conversation), then shoot promotional photos, headshots, or social media content in the remaining time. Efficient use of a full-day booking.

Find a Photography Studio Near You

• [Los Angeles studios](/photography/california/los-angeles)
• [New York City studios](/photography/new-york/new-york-city)
• [Nashville studios](/photography/tennessee/nashville)
• [Austin studios](/photography/texas/austin)
• [Chicago studios](/photography/illinois/chicago)
• [Browse all photography studios →](/photography)

Own a studio? [List your space on Circular Studios →](/list-your-space)