Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Opticon different from other studios?

Opticon is a creative studio ran by photographer Josh Thomas, whose work has been in the pages of Elle, Glamour, and more, as well as having shot fro brands like Coach, Saks Fifth, and has created work for Starbucks, Nike, and many more. Our equipment is top of the line, and all of our tools, clothing, and props that we’ve gathered from our shoots are available for you to use.

Opticon acts as a place to encourage you to get creative and advance your work. Utilize the space!

Will the owner remain in the studio during my rental?

Sometimes, yes. Especially if there are multiple rentals on the same date. If you really necessitate privacy, let us know.

Where are you located?

The studio is located just minutes from Canton, Johns Hopkins, Fells Point, and other Baltimore landmarks.

What are your normal hours of operation?

We are a 24 hour, 365 studio!

Are you available to photograph our event at Opticon?

Of course! The studio is ran by a professional fashion/editorial photographer. We also have a few photographers on call who can help with family-oriented events. Please click here for booking information

What type of events are APPROPRIATE here?

Our space is meant for smaller, private events like yoga classes, proposals, showers, book clubs, and more. We’ve even hosted weddings! We will not tolerate rowdy parties, unacceptably loud DJs, alcohol, etc. If you have a unique event in mind, get in touch!

Are there any Restrictions on what I can shoot at Opticon?

Nope! Shoot whatever you want, just keep the space clean, absolutely no sexual acts, and follow our rules.

Are there any hidden costs or fees?

Nope. We list our pricing for everything throughout the site, so please read everything, or just ask us before booking.

What colors of seamless paper do you keep in stock?

We try to keep as many colors in stock as possible, so feel free to contact us at any time and ask directly. Generally, we keep the basics on hand all times.

We do charge a $15 fee when we have to cut our papers, if they touch the ground or are damaged. If you’re just standing in front of them, and not standing on them, then they’re all free to use! Remember these are expensive, and take a while to ship and refill our stock, so please be respectful.

You are also more than welcome to bring your own, if you have a color that we don’t.

What is your RESCHEDULING/cancellation policy?

Full refund if canceled at LEAST 24 hours before your scheduled time.  

If canceled less than 24 hours before your booking time, we do charge a $50 cancelation fee.

Can I bring outside equipment?

You’re free to bring pretty much whatever you want. We have large doors and a small set of steps out front

Is there free parking?

Yes! Our studio is located in an in-development artist community that offers plenty of free parking in a private parking lot attached to the studio.

Is there food in the area?

We are only a few minutes from Canton, and various other populated areas with plenty of delivery options. Just please clean up after yourself.

Do you have a minimum booking time?

Yes, we require a minimum of 2 hours per rental. We do offer discounts for all day rentals.

STUDIO POLICIES

  1. By renting Opticon Studio, you acknowledge that you are 100% responsible for anything that is damaged or broken. You will incur 100% of the cost of repair or replacement, no exceptions! We can still be friends, and we’ll welcome you back, BUT you’ll have to pay for anything you break.

  1. Similarly, you acknowledge that our space is recorded at all times for our own protection.

  2. Absolutely no sexual acts. This is not your bedroom, and we are not a brothel. We take this VERY seriously, and so should you.

  3. No smoking of ANY kind, and this includes vaping. The residue left WILL damage equipment, and you will be charged a cleaning fee of $200 if you do it. We are very close to the exit, please just step outside.

  4. No alcohol, no exceptions.

  5. Please do no move our furniture.

  6. Please put everything back where you got it from. You don’t want to work in a cluttered studio, and neither do we! Any mess left behind will incur a cleanup fee of $200!

  7. $15 charge to cut any seamless paper that touches the ground/gets walked on. If you’re standing in front of it and it isn’t on the ground, they’re all free to use!

  8. Running over your designated time WILL incur an extra hourly charge. Please be punctual and use your time wisely.

  9. No glitter or paint, unless explicit permission granted.

  10. Keep any music to a reasonable volume

  11. Absolutely nothing gets attached to our white walls. You will be incur the cost of repairing and repainting 20’+ seamless walls. Let’s keep them clean.

  12. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Children allowed, but please be mindful or surroundings, and rule #1.

  13. This space allots a maximum of 100 people

  14. Have fun, and get creative!