Blackout Studio in DTLA: Apex Blackout Studio B (Why It Works)
Blacking out a studio gives you precise control over light, color, reflections, and mood—ideal for photo and video when consistency matters. At Apex Photo Studios, Blackout Studio B is a pre–black-out space ready to go, with acoustics support (we have 12 x 12 black solids to help sound dampen our studio spaces to help acoustics) and the convenience of multiple studio spaces under one roof for quick company moves.
Quick Answers (Q&A)
What are the core benefits of blacking out a studio?
Total light control (no spill, no color cast), repeatable looks across sets, better contrast and saturation, fewer unwanted reflections, and a calmer set for hybrid photo/video.
When should I choose a blackout studio over daylight?
When you need consistency across hours, cinematic low-key looks, high-contrast beauty, reflective products, gel work, or you’re mixing strobe + continuous fixtures without fighting ambient light.
How does Apex’s Blackout Studio B help in practice?
It’s a pre–black-out space ready to go—walk in, set your key/fill/rim, and roll. Curtains and finishes are designed for light control, and we have 12 x 12 black solids to help sound dampen our studio spaces to help acoustics so interviews and VO sound tighter. The cyclorama also includes an overhead lighting grid for specialized setups.
Any advantages for sound and workflow?
Yes—black surfaces reduce bounce and 12×12 black solids help acoustics, while a clean floor plan speeds up rigging and company moves. Plus, Apex offers multiple studio spaces under one roof, so you can pivot between looks without a truck move.
Why pick Apex Photo Studios for blackout needs?
Blackout Studio B provides controlled lighting, comfort, and pro support—ideal for fashion, beauty, product, and moody editorial. Need daylight or rooftop later? Hop to other rooms on the same floor plan—again, multiple studio spaces under one roof. You can also consider blacking out other rooms with several installation options to reduce or remove light.
Expanded Guide
Why Blacking Out Works
- Precision & repeatability: Eliminate ambient fluctuations; keep ratios identical frame-to-frame.
- Color accuracy: No window cast; gels and practicals read true.
- Reflections managed: Glossy products, metals, and glass behave.
- Mood control: Build low-key or dramatic looks without contamination.
- Video-friendly: Easier to balance mixed sources and keep continuity.
Blackout Studio B at Apex Photo Studios (DTLA)
- Pre–black-out, ready to go: Walk in and light—no heavy blacking-out required.
- Acoustics support: We have 12 x 12 black solids to help sound dampen our studio spaces to help acoustics—great for BTS, interviews, and cleaner guide tracks.
- Lighting freedom: Shape key/fill/rim, flag spill, and maintain deep blacks without bounced daylight.
- Pro workflow: On-site team, clean load-in, and access to gear and grip.
- Part of a bigger ecosystem: Apex offers multiple studio spaces under one roof—swap to daylight or rooftop looks the same day.
Ideal Use Cases
- Beauty & fashion: Deep contrast, crisp speculars, controllable skin sheen.
- Product & still life: Tame reflections; isolate color.
- Music & editorial: Moody gels and practicals without ambient pollution.
- Campaigns with mixed media: Match stills and motion lighting precisely.
Case Study: Apex Studio Podcast
- Acoustics on point: Sound-dampened cyclorama for crisp podcast audio.
- Blackout space: Custom lighting environments and flexible set builds.
- Elevate your podcast: Strong engagement across platforms and YouTube.
Case Study: Vic Mensa Editorial
- Variety of looks: Multiple sets and lighting schemes created.
- Cinematic contrast: Total light control for deep shadows and dramatic highlights.
- Focus on talent: Blacked-out environment eliminated distractions and reflections.
Practical Setup Checklist (Blackout Sessions)
Gear & grip
- Key/fill/rim fixtures + modifiers (softbox, grid, snoot, flags)
- 12×12 black solids (for spill control and acoustics), floppies, cutters
- ND gels/CTO/CTB for creative control
Lighting plan
- Target ratios (e.g., key/fill 4:1), meter readings, and camera baseline
- Reflection tests for glossy subjects (polarizers/negative fill)
Sound
- Place 12×12 black solids near reflective walls/ceilings as needed
- Isolate talent mic; monitor floor noise and HVAC
Workflow
- Stage carts and mark stand positions for fast resets
- Pre-light hero set; timebox experimental looks