Rad Toronto Studios | Mararamiro, Studio Pastel, Archive, and Lovt
I used to have a studio on Ossington a long time ago here in Toronto. I did LOTS of boudoir sessions in there, as well as all my meetings, but for the most part, it was pretty empty because I photograph in people’s homes, outdoors, out of the city…pretty much anywhere and everywhere. Eventually, I said goodbye to that light-filled studio and since then, have created a list of my favourite studios to work out of when that kind of environment is needed.
When I look at a location, I look for a variety of feelings that I get from each one. And each one should be different from the others in their own way to keep that variety and inspiration going.
A few things I look at when looking at the space are incredible light, gorgeous interiors, and a space full of character or something of the minimal nature…I look for a place that inspires.
I also look at who owns the space; who they are and what they stand for is important, especially when it’s a space I want to come back to time and time again. And I want my clients to have just as good of an experience booking the space as I do when I book. That customer service and good nature is so important in making the whole experience wonderful.
I’ve done a round-up of my favourite places in Toronto for you, and I hope it inspires you to check them out too!
MARARAMIRO
Mararamiro is a gorgeous studio in the east end of Toronto in a two-story building on Carlaw.
It’s run by Tanya & Terrence, a married couple with incredible taste. It’s actually a shoppable studio that features furniture, decor pieces, rugs & textiles, and vintage items. And the space can be rented as a photography studio or as a setting for a small gathering like an intimate wedding or event.
Our home decor philosophy revolves around simplicity and comfort; the idea that every room should be welcoming for those who live there and those who visit it. Our shoppable studio showroom for your next photography project. - Mararamiro
I’ve shot there many times myself. The light is dreamy and as a space with lots of windows, the natural light can change depending on the weather but the space always plays to the mood set by the lighting. It’s ever-inspiring and with furniture pieces constantly coming and going the space always feels new, which is an amazing thing when coming back time and time again.
One never feels bored because it’s always changing and always inspiring. But what doesn’t change is its beauty and the ease of setting up there, as Tanya & Terrence are always welcoming and there to ensure everyone is having a beautiful experience. When you get in there is often a little welcome card from them that just starts your time off there on such a sweet note. Plus the fridge is stocked with Bubly and they have a Nespresso maker to get your coffee fix in while you are there creating!
Another incredible thing they’ve created within the space is a home for the artists who’ve created the pieces that are on display throughout the studio. Recently, freelance graphic designer and illustrator, Rachel Joanis has had her work featured in the studio and being introduced to her has been so inspiring. Rachel has been speaking up about how she has found it challenging to price her work as a female artist and how the gendered pricing gap that keeps female artists from earning more causes them to put in more unpaid labour. Read more about this important conversation here.
All in all, this space and everything it holds dear to its values is more than inspiring.
STUDIO PASTEL
Studio Pastel is next up, and I’m so excited to share this space with you!
It’s run by Erin Shannon, who you might know as an incredible makeup artist and the owner of ESBridal, which has a team of FAB ladies who all do makeup and hair.
A boutique photo studio and natural light rental space, Studio Pastel offers a sun-washed and storied space for creatives and visual storytellers located in Leaside Toronto.
The lighting there changes throughout the day but whether direct or speckled, it’s always brilliant.
From the vintage curated pieces to the art deco mirrors, the space will definitely have you inspired. The layout is chill with little vignettes in each corner but not crowded. This allows you to move things around without too much time and no matter the combination of how you create the space, it all vibes together and feels and LOOKS amazing.
All of our vintage furniture within the vignettes have been curated by Miller Island. Each piece within the space has been mindfully selected and carefully placed with the best lighting and backdrop in mind.
We hope that our space feels like a destination. Our minimal, 80’s Florida sunroom style with a hint of art deco will feel like a mini escape. You can use the curtain room dividers to create movable textures and stunning backdrops. Our 14ft ceilings with staircase offer many settings for creatives. Each corner of the studio has a storied design that is versatile.
Lighting and Backdrops: Please make use of our white walls and sun washed space. With our south facing windows you will have the best natural light and shadows for photos.
Another add-on is that parking is a breeze and it’s super close to a Cumbrea’s; which means lunch break can include a buttermilk chicken sandwich—YUM.
ARCHIVE
Archive is a newer studio that has recently opened and is quickly being booked up!
It’s located in the heart of the downtown Toronto core on street level, where natural light pours into each of the three rooms.
This historic 2,500 square foot studio is located near Richmond and Parliament in Toronto. Archive Studios boasts three studios styled with refined furnishings and details. The brick and beam space offers an elevated experience, lending a rich sense of history, texture and warmth to any creative endeavour.
Archive studios features a clean and contemporary aesthetic with a nod to old world European architecture and character. Bathed in natural light, step into one of our tastefully designed studios and elevate your next creative project.
Marrying the old with the new, Archive Studios showcases natural hues, subtle sophistication and warm textures. The space is rich in detail, atmosphere, and versatility, offering endless creative possibilities.
It’s perfect for all your photography sessions as well as intimate weddings and smaller events.
The sunlit space is perfect for intimate celebrations (30 or fewer guests) and can accommodate both mingling or sit down celebrations. We also offer in-house planning and design with one of our expert planners and stylists.
The studio owners are gems and the space will inspire you to your core!!
LOVT
LOVT might be a familiar name if you’ve ever booked a studio to shoot out of or host a small event in. They were originally located in the 888 Dupont building (which has been sold) and it was THE space to rent out. But the studio owners, Amanda & Zach, are magic makers and seamlessly transitioned to the new space where they transformed their new Liberty Village location into not one but two eye-catching studios that will leave you wanting to come back time and time again.
The new studios are located in the heart of Liberty Village in the Historial Toronto Carpet Factory. The charm and character of these two spaces are amazing. Plus, booking is a breeze as the studio owners are two of the most wonderful people and are always there to help where they can!
Here’s a little more of the two spaces that make up LOVT.
The Marion :
Our larger style studio, complete with second level kitchenette, library, changing / makeup area and multiple large shooting areas. Two large arched west facing windows let in so much natural light you’ll want to shoot well past golden hour! Complete with Smeg fridge, stylish decor and lots of props for you to utilize.
The natural light is absolutely breathtaking, This open concept loft style studio had everything you could need for shoot day. multiple curated shooting areas, an upstairs kitchenette complete with smeg fridge, large harvest table and MCM style lounge.
This space is also fantastic for creative classes, yoga studio or hosting an event!
The Jelmore:
A boutique style studio featuring three large west facing arched windows, a lush fireplace and an array of stylish furniture, props and decor. This studio is perfect for smaller shoots, video content and anything that you, your client or brand could need.
21 foot ceilings with three 18 foot arched windows along the length of the west wall, original hardwood floors and beam ceilings, blonde bricks and original factory details.
Great for wedding and milestone shoots, lifestyle shoots, portraits, e-commerce, editorial &etc.
This space is also fantastic for creative classes, yoga studio or hosting an event!
Definitely two gems and in such a vivacious, busy, fun area of Toronto.
The below is shot at LOVT Marion space.
