Studio 3, Inc.

Create the Scene

How to Create a Serene Scene

Posted on August 29, 2016

(hint: it’s a lot of hard work)

Create the Scene — Studio 3, Inc.

Pure calm and relaxation. A peaceful soak in a Marquis Spa looking out into a quaint, zen-filled yard. Surely this shoot was as easy as it is on the eyes, yes? Well, no. Photographing a hot tub takes a lot more time, manpower, props, people and creativity than one could imagine. Let’s take a look at what it takes to really create this breathtaking picture.

Create the Scene Portland — Studio 3, Inc.

Getting the hot tub into the studio requires forklifts and patience. Then we have to set up the background, fill the tub with gallons of water, place the props and book the models. It takes days of physical preparation before we can even take our first photo.  All this intensive planning would become overwhelming for most people, but luckily we have secret advantage…

Liz Swales Studio 3 — Studio 3, Inc.

Our top boss, Liz Swales! She oversees and schedules the organized chaos and somehow (probably magic) is able to orchestrate the entire production seamlessly.

Craig Wagner Photographer and Lighting Professional — Studio 3, Inc.

The client had provided us with a stock image to be used in conjunction with our studio photo; so even with the product and props perfectly set, we faced the deceptively tricky task of matching our lighting to that of the stock photo. That is where our lighting master, Senior Photographer Craig Wagner, flexed his expertise. Craig intensely studied the light direction of the stock photograph, noting its color temperature and level of diffusion, and was able to capture the lighting perfectly during our studio shoot.

With the shoot finished, it was time for some intense post production work. Merging two photos from different shoots is a delicate process that requires extreme attention to detail. To make the scene look believable, our Digital Artist extraordinaire Carl Beery was in charge of retouching and adjusting the images. In order to create the perfect image, he had to extend the flooring, add a few shadows, remove distracting elements, recover some detail and color in the stock image, and match the white and black points of the studio shot and the composite. Phew! That’s a lot of work.

 

Image by © Trinette Reed:Blend Images:Corbis — Studio 3, Inc.

 

Tea set on table on wooden patio in zen garden — Studio 3, Inc.

The end result? That calming, dreamstate photo you saw at the very top of this blog. Meet the production pros who teamed up to create this image and then get in touch with us. With locations in both Seattle and Portland, we can make your production photography needs come true.

Marqui Make A Wish Webpage — Studio 3, Inc.

The picturesque scene in this post features a very special model of hot tub called “The Wish.” Marquis Spas makes a donation to the Make-A-Wish-Foundation for each one these models sold. Marquis Spas has worked with the foundation for 17 years and has donated their hot tubs, money and time to this incredibly important organization.

 

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Same Friendly Faces, Great New Location

Posted on August 22, 2016

Old Location Plaque — Studio 3, Inc.Old Location 3 in Cement — Studio 3, Inc.

We’ve had a busy week here in the Studio 3 Portland branch. As is the norm in PDX, we’ve moved! Yes, after 40 years in the same location we decided it was time to shake things up a bit.

OOOH SPACE at our new location — Studio 3, Inc.Ahh look at that open space! After months of waiting, we have finally moved into the heart of the bustling Kerns neighborhood in Northeast Portland. Creative, fun, vibes are inevitable here as our new location is surrounded by theaters, restaurants, parks, art galleries, few urban farms and our neighbors, Kamp Grizzly.

Towering Boxes — Studio 3, Inc.

We loved our time in the Southeast, and we take with us the many years of memories. Memories that we sorted and packed into hundreds of boxes. Boxes that have now formed rising towers, reflecting our decades of innovative commercial photography.

Stash Tea drink photography studio 3 — Studio 3, Inc.

A little change of scenery has proven invigorating. We are buzzing with new ideas and our studio is ready to handle whatever project your brand may have. We are all settled in, so now is the time to swing by either Portland or Seattle location, grab a cup of coffee and let’s chat about your photography needs.

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9859T_LacosteWatch

Time Will Tell…

Posted on March 28, 2016

watch briefcase unionstation — Studio 3, Inc.

LaCoste’s stylish watch blends elements of dignified grace and exquisite fashion. Its dynamic look requires a dynamic image that only Studio 3 can deliver.  Photographer Trevor Boone pulled out all of the stops, shooting in Seattle’s Union Station, a backdrop uniquely suited to reflect LaCoste’s class and refined elegance.

camera flash model — Studio 3, Inc.

Using mostly natural light, Photographer Trevor Boone turned the bustling public area into his own personal playground as he navigated through the uncontrolled environment with skill and precision.  The result is a backdrop with character, proving that Studio 3 can shoot anywhere and everywhere.

model bench briefcase — Studio 3, Inc.

model table windows — Studio 3, Inc.

Not only will our team locate a picture-perfect setting, we’re also experienced in hiring the right talent for your project whether that means partnering with agencies or holding open casting calls in our studios…. and if you need some cute kittens to get the puurrrrrfect image, we can handle that too! 

model umbrella doors — Studio 3, Inc.

 Studio 3 is the premiere photo studio in the Pacific Northwest specializing in long-term partnerships with the top companies in their field.  Now is the time to reach out and bring a spotlight to your brand with precision and authority.

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Marquis Spa preproduction photo for photoshoot

Let’s Make Everyday A Spa Day

Posted on March 8, 2016

Set dressing the spa for photoshoot — Studio 3, Inc.

Our creative partnership with  Marquis Spas  has developed swimmingly over the last 10 years. With Studio 3’s continuing passion for interpreting the client’s vision and turning it into the reality they are looking for. All the while having a great time amidst splashes, friendly banter, and of TONS of warm towels & robes.

Setting up shot with model in the spa — Studio 3, Inc.

Shot with family in the spa — Studio 3, Inc.

The intent of these photos shot in our studio was to match the angle and light of the background photo they loved.  Our crack digital team lead by the famous Carl, worked their magic and composited them together. Giving the client that beautiful location photo of Sun Valley with the spa without ever having to board a plane.

Behind the scenes of spa shoot — Studio 3, Inc.

Model sitting in the tub waiting for her close up — Studio 3, Inc.

Photographer Craig Wagner shooting behind the scenes — Studio 3, Inc.

Do you have a product that needs to be showcased, have a new look or simply look like it was shot in the dessert or Hong Kong. We have the solutions. We’ll get you the vibrant images that scream quality, on budget, on time, every time! Reach out, I think you’ll find it fun and interesting.

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Pinball Wizards photo playing pinball

Getting Hog Wild!

Posted on February 29, 2016

Setting up shot of fun spinning hat toy — Studio 3, Inc.

We had a great time shooting with Hog Wild Toys – who make us feel like kids again with every photoshoot. Speaking of kids, we had some incredible little tykes in the studio to capture the toys in action. They had a blast.

Playing with twirly toy — Studio 3, Inc.

Pinball Wizards photo playing pinball — Studio 3, Inc.

Setting up shot with fun hat — Studio 3, Inc.

Setting up shot while playing with toys — Studio 3, Inc.

Here at Studio 3, we are always playing with toys, whether it be professional toys or the occasional paper airplane around the office.  Bringing out that childlike enthusiasm for fun while providing professional images for a company we love to work with, was the ultimate way to spend a day in the studio.  The smile on photographer Henry Ngan’s face says it all.  If you need photos for your product and want to have a blast doing it, give us a shout. 

 

 

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Final image of cocktail app production shoot

Cocktails, there’s an app for that.

Posted on February 26, 2016

Drink Photography set up with photoshop layers — Studio 3, Inc.

This week at Studio 3, photographer Henry Ngan got things revving with a photo shoot of a new app called the Perfect Drink App-Controlled Smart Bartending. The new product from Brookstone is designed to make the perfect cocktail.Do you ever come across a stunning drink photo and wonder, How did they do that!? We can’t reveal all of our secrets but we can show you a behind the scenes look at the process of professional drink photography.

Shooting a cocktails for drink photography shoot — Studio 3, Inc.Preparation for cocktail photo shoot cutting lemons — Studio 3, Inc.

Setting up the hero shot of the cocktail and new technology — Studio 3, Inc.

At the end of the day, Henry nailed a beautiful and elegant representation of a brand new product that is soon to be in the homes of everyone you know. Give us a ring and dazzle the world with your product with professional images that only Studio 3 can provide.

Final image of cocktail app production shoot — Studio 3, Inc.

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Stung

Building Buzz with Product Photography

Posted on February 24, 2016

Stung Fermented Drink Mate & Die Mead in glass on table with meat and cheese party appetizer board — Studio 3, Inc.

When Stung Fermented wanted to modernize their look and make their photography competitive in the marketplace, they called on Studio 3 to deliver. We were able to go on-location at Stung Fermented’s Portland meadery and execute a shoot designed to build excitement around the up-and-coming brand.

Photographer Craig Wagner positioning Stung Fermented mead bottle on barrel for product photography shoot on location — Studio 3, Inc.Bringing mead back from the past (with a hip, modern twist!) is no easy feat, so the Stung crew relied on photographer Craig Wagner‘s expertise in lighting, sets, propping, angles, and positioning to make their product shine.

Row of stainless steel Stung Fermented mead jars on shelf in meadery — Studio 3, Inc.Assistant photographer Jonny Brandt adjusting lighting umbrella at the Stung Fermented photoshoot behind the scenes — Studio 3, Inc.

Photography Assistant Jonny Brandt attended to the hundreds of details on set that were crucial to a successful shoot – so the Client could relax knowing their brand was in experienced hands. Photographer Craig Wagner shooting drink photography of Stung Fermented on tabletop — Studio 3, Inc.
StungFermented MeadPhotoshoot DrinkPhotography Photography Studio 3 — Studio 3, Inc.When you have a buzzworthy product (like Portland’s next favorite libation!) you want to make sure your launch – with fully rebranded website – goes off without a hitch. It’s Studio 3’s exceptional results and professional handling that keep the process humming. Give us a ring and see.Stung Fermented 3 mead flavors, bottles on barrel with glass at meadery — Studio 3, Inc.

 

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When it Comes to Video, Studio 3 Is Your Wingman

Posted on February 22, 2016

Director David King adjusting the video camera on set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc.

We had a great time hosting one of our long-time Clients in the Studio for a video shoot last week. Coordinated by Project Manager Liz Swales, the production featured some of the Client’s best-selling products in action and showcased their versatility. Director David King revved into action to create an expert blend of fun and professionalism on set. Assistant Trevor Boone supported the shoot with some behind-the-scenes production stills, prepping, propping, equipment support, and offering a hand with an unruly ball of twine. Putting product photography in motion with a demo video for your brand is a great way to enrich your customer’s experience and drive sales. Studio 3 is the perfect wingman to have when you’re ready for that product video.
Shot list and props flat lay on set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc. Using the Leatherman Wingman to whittle on set of the Studio 3 video shoot — Studio 3, Inc. Director David King watching rushes with the talent on set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc.Director David King setting up the props on set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc. Talent and Assistant Trevor Boone untangling twine prop while Director David King looks on, set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc. Assistant Trevor Boone taking a production still shot of Director David King and talent on set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc.Director David King and talent watch the video monitor on set of the Leatherman Wingman video shoot — Studio 3, Inc.

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Keep Kissing Boys on the Street song title graffiti art with rose petals

Keep Kissing Boys in the Street

Posted on February 12, 2016

Keep Kissing Boys on the Street song title graffiti art with rose petals — Studio 3, Inc.If you haven’t yet heard Greg Holden’s song “Boys in the Street” it’s high time you must. Profiled by Time and the Huffington Post, Holden is an artist who identifies as straight, but wrote the song in support of his gay friends. The song tugs on the heartstrings with a powerful message about gay acceptance and love.

Spied in L.A., Nashville, San Francisco, Brooklyn, and now Portland, a stencil reading “Keep Kissing Boys in the Street” has been popping up (in response to the father’s accusation that the son had been “kissing boys in the street” in the song). This Valentine’s Day the Studio 3 Team gave this street art stencil the loving touch with some on-location photography, falling rose petals, and a digitally-enhanced sparkle. Let love, tolerance, and acceptance reign in all your relationships – and keep on kissing those boys in the street. (And check out the Instagram hashtag #boysinthestreet for more!)

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5 Things to Consider When Hiring a Professional Photographer

Posted on February 9, 2016

It can be tough to find the perfect photographer for your images. Who to work with? How do you know what you’re getting? What will ensure the quality of the final image…and a great outcome? When weighing portfolios and websites, it is necessary to look at these 5 areas before you make that professional photographer hire:

Arm wearing Leatherman tread tool bracelet reaching for cocktail drink on table — Studio 3, Inc.

1. Capabilities: Do they have a portfolio of similar work? Do you see something congruous with your ideas (a similar style for the photography, for example) – that would lead you to believe that they can do this for you too? If you don’t see a professional photograph similar to your concept, that doesn’t mean the photographer in question is incapable of producing the work…it just leaves more up to chance. Go through the portfolio carefully to see if you can envision this particular person creating a photo evocative of your vision.

Espresso coffee cups and cookies for afternoon tea on tabletop — Studio 3, Inc.

2. Experience: Who have they worked with? Who are their advocates? Do they have a roster of clients that speak to their abilities…or are you unsure of who their clientele are? Do you see behind-the-scenes shots or shoots referenced on their social media channels? Do you hear clients singing their praises…or just crickets? Basically the question is whether they have the experience and the chops to execute the shoot you envision…as well as the experience to deal with anything that could potentially go wrong. And right it immediately. And make it amazing.

Cowboy rancher with 2 horses on location on rural ranch — Studio 3, Inc.

3. Professionalism: How professional do they seem? Website, social media, email interactions, project management – are they on top of things or do they seem to drop the ball? Do they have a Team that handles whatever you could need on your project? Do you feel taken care of? Is their focus on YOU? This is an area where, if something is amiss, it is usually obvious immediately. From your first interaction to your last, you should feel that you can trust the professional you’ve chosen, and that they have all the i’s dotted and t’s crossed.

Construction worker polishing rust off railroad tie with Stanley pneumatic grinder tool, making sparks — Studio 3, Inc.

4. Quality: Is the overall feel of the photographer’s work high-quality with a great deal of thought put into it…or do you see slapdash mistakes? How is the styling, the lighting, the sharpness of the photo? Do all the details cohere to create a uniform story? Is nothing overlooked? Do all the elements support the story…or detract? When you feel a balanced harmony when looking at the photograph, the overall quality will shine through.

Spicy fried chicken pieces with Asian sauce on wax paper picnic lunch — Studio 3, Inc.

5. Results: A photo is a means to an end. Will it make people stop in its tracks…or will it be glossed over? Will it tell the story you want it to…or will it miss the mark? A lot of this relies on your gut feeling about your photography partner prior to the shoot…but you can also make an educated guess based on the work in the photographer’s portfolio. You also need to define what would be a success for the photography you need…and how to gauge the results once complete.

If you haven’t gotten the results you’ve been looking for from your photography provider, maybe it’s time to switch. The Team at Studio 3 is always here to partner with you to execute your vision…and push your campaigns to the next level. Give us a ring and see.

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