Lights, camera, action… all at home

When Haripriya Rajadhyaksha, a 35-year-old mother of two from Mumbai finally found the time to pause and look back at her first love – painting - she was left bewildered. Haripriya wanted to shoot her painting process and conduct online classes at the same time. After much thought, she decided to convert a small corner of her room into a studio equipped with cameras, lights and a mic to record. Today, her students attend her online classes from all over the world.

As content creators/vloggers thrive in a digital world, the need for such compact studios is increasing. Not just them, even for remote workers, music producers, podcasters, home chefs, fitness trainers or just someone with a side hustle - the concept of a ‘home studio’ has become the ultimate lifestyle upgrade. It also saves on the costs of renting a studio and the logistics involved with it.

A home studio, a one-time investment, if done wisely, gives you the freedom to create at your own time and pace.

Setting up your home studio

Before you buy anything, plan. Ask yourself some crucial questions - what will this space be used for; do you need silence, natural light, soundproofing or open space; how much space will you need.

You don’t need a whole room to be converted into a studio - just a dedicated corner or zone can be enough. Use a spare bedroom, enclosed balcony, partitioned corner of your living room, rooftop enclosure or terrace room, or even the under-stair loft, mezzanine floor or alcove that can serve the purpose.

Pooja Ijare, a 40-year-old yoga and fitness trainer, uses her living room to shoot her videos. These videos have become popular for their simple, yet detailed demonstration. She finds the space open and ideal for laying out the mat and demonstrating exercises.

Must-haves for a home studio

Video station: This needs ring light, tripod, mic, phone mount, green screen/backdrop and soft-boxes.

Podcast station: It needs dynamic mics, colourful and comfortable seating, pop filter, audio interface, headphones and foam panels.

Music studio: For a music studio, you need midi controller, studio monitors, DAW software and soundproofing.

Art studio: This needs easels, storage carts, worktable, daylight lamp and washable flooring.

Fitness studio: You have to arrange yoga mats, ring light, full-length mirror, mic, portable speakers and music.

Cooking studio: This ought to be set up in your kitchen with ample lights, overhead stand for camera and sturdy gear.

Some handy hints

Create in batches: Record or shoot multiple sessions at once. That way you get the continuity in the background and more work gets completed.

Make it a habit: Schedule shoots or recording slots to build a habit. Start early or record at fixed times.

Time planning: Use the Pomodoro technique or time-blocking to stay productive. You may need time to chalk out the plan, execute the recording and handle post-production.

Repurpose content: A YouTube video can become a podcast, three reels and blog post. Occasionally, speak to your audiences about your plans, for some pro-tips or have a candid chat to build authenticity.

Your home studio doesn’t have to be perfect. It is your personal space - one that makes you feel empowered to create, lead, perform or just think better. In an age where digital is the default, who knows, your next big thing could start from the tiny corner next to your bookshelf.

It’s in the light and sound

Your studio’s usability depends solely on the quality of sound and light. These are two factors that you need to pay special attention to.

For quality sound, add rugs, curtains or even egg crate foam for makeshift soundproofing of walls. Use moving blankets or heavy drapes if you’re recording in noisy areas.

For good light, use blackout curtains to block sunlight during recordings and use focus lights on your face only. Mix LED panels with diffusers for soft, shadow-free lighting.