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Tips for Photographing in The White Room Studio in West Knoxville

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studio photos of furniture in natural light

Photographing in The White Room Knox is designed to feel effortless, clean, and inspiring—but a little preparation goes a long way in making your session smooth and successful. Since taking over the studio in March 2026, one of the biggest updates I’ve implemented is built-in buffer time for every rental. You now get 15 minutes before your session to set up and 15 minutes after to clean up. This ensures you’re fully ready before your clients walk in and that the space stays just as beautiful for the next photographer.

Arrive Early & Set the Tone

Use your 15-minute setup window wisely. Whether you’re arranging a newborn setup, pulling down paper backdrops, or moving furniture into place, having everything ready beforehand allows you to greet your clients calmly and confidently. After your session, please use the additional 15 minutes to reset the space—return furniture, props, and backdrops to their original spots and leave everything clean.

Music can also completely shift the energy of a session. The in-house Alexa makes it easy—just say, “Alexa, play Easy Hits on Apple Music.” It’s my go-to playlist that’s calm, upbeat, and appropriate for all ages.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

If you’re photographing a boudoir session, privacy is key. Make sure the privacy curtains are fully closed and consider locking the door to avoid any interruptions. Small touches like this make a huge difference in your client’s comfort and overall experience.

Mastering the Light

One of the best features of the studio is its natural light—but it does change throughout the day. In the afternoon, you may notice harsher, direct light hitting the floors or walls. You can soften this by pulling down the white blackout shade behind the curtains. Sometimes adjusting just one window (typically the one furthest from the door) will give you the perfect balance of soft light and brightness. The studio is brightest between lunch and a couple hours before sunset.

That said—don’t be afraid to lean into harsh light! It can create stunning, creative shadows and add a completely different look to your gallery.

Using Props & Backdrops

Props are available on the gold hanging bars—feel free to use them at no additional cost! If balloons need a little refresh, there’s a jar of straws near the refrigerator to reinflate them. Tape is available in the drawer beside the fridge to hang some of the props, but please remove all tape from walls and surfaces before leaving.

When using paper backdrops, if the end becomes too damaged, go ahead and cut it off. Dispose of it in the outside dumpsters if needed, and please let me know if the roll becomes too short to reach the floor, as I’ll need to order a replacement and I’m not personally using these every time I shoot in the studio so you will likely know well before I would know!

Clean-Up & Final Touches

If your session involves a bigger mess (cake smash, confetti, etc.), cleaning supplies—including paper towels, a Swiffer, and a broom/dustpan—are available. Please take a few extra minutes to fully clean the space so the next renter walks into a fresh studio. If you leave the space a mess, you’ll get one warning before you are not allowed to rent the space any longer.

You’ll also find a portable clock on the desk—feel free to move it wherever you need so you can easily keep track of time without constantly checking your phone.

And if you need water, check the fridge! If it’s empty, just shoot a quick email so it can be restocked.


At the end of the day, the goal of The White Room Knox is to provide a seamless, welcoming space where you can focus on creating beautiful images and giving your clients an incredible experience. A little preparation, intentional use of the space, and thoughtful cleanup go a long way in keeping it that way for everyone.

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