Is a Greenhouse Studio Right for You?


When most photographers think about running minis, they picture renting a studio, hustling to fill every slot so the rental fee is worth it, and silently hoping the weather cooperates. Been there. Done that. Paid the overpriced rental invoice.


Then I built my greenhouse studio, and it completely changed how I run my business. If you’re looking for a way to grow your business in a way that is flexible, fits your schedule, and doesn't need a second mortgage, this greenhouse might be just what you are searching for!


Before we get into it, here are a few pics of me and my fam at the greenhouse...

 

People sitting together on wooden steps outside a sunlit greenhouse with a wreath hanging at golden hour.
Person in brown jacket leans out window of rustic greenhouse structure with trees visible in background.
Four sequential photos of a wooden greenhouse structure with glass walls showing a casual figure in different relaxed poses.

 

Is a greenhouse studio right for you?


Thinking about turning a greenhouse into your own photography studio? It might just be the smartest business move you make. Here are a few things to consider before diving in:


Questions to Ask Yourself


Do you already offer mini sessions but hate renting studios?

A greenhouse studio pays for itself quickly. After one or two mini session days, you’ll have covered what you would’ve spent on rental fees, except now you have a permanent space you can use anytime. Plus, you can reschedule clients around bad weather without worrying about losing money on a rental.


Do you get excited about styling and decorating?

The greenhouse is a blank canvas. Mine leans cottagecore, but you could create anything from boho chic to whimsical holiday setups. It’s versatile and easy to change with the seasons.


Do you have space on your property?

The entire yard doesn’t need to be perfect, but the area behind and around the greenhouse should look good in photos. A clean, simple background goes a long way.


Does your climate work for it?

If you live somewhere hot, airflow is key. You’ll want windows, vents, or fans to keep clients comfortable. In cooler climates, it works beautifully through fall, winter, and spring.


Can you build a base for it?

The greenhouse needs a solid foundation. Some people choose gravel or cement, but we went with a wood deck base. It not only looks great but also gives me a small porch area for extra photo angles.

 

 

Choosing a Greenhouse


The greenhouse I built came as a kit (think “IKEA for photographers,” but not actually IKEA). Mine is made by Yardistry, and I ordered it through Costco Canada. They seem to be available seasonally, but if you’re shopping online, this Amazon greenhouse option is almost identical and also made by Yardistry.


You don’t need my exact model, but here’s what you should look for when choosing:


  • Airflow → In warmer areas, ventilation is a must. With my model, I can open the doors and windows ahead of time and it cools quickly.
  • Angles & Light → Large windows create more variety in shots. My greenhouse has a big side window that gives me tons of flexibility.
  • Shelving → Mine came with shelves along the back and one side. The side shelf is removable (though I haven’t needed to take it off yet). They’re also handy for hiding storage or decor if you add curtains, like I did.
  • UV Protection → The windows on mine have UV properties, which means my props and textiles won’t fade in the sun.
  • Weather Resistance → Look for a greenhouse that’s designed to stay up year-round. Mine doesn’t need to be taken down for winter, which saves time and effort.

 

 

Greeenhouse options


Here are a few greenhouse options you could research. Please note that I do not own any of these ones specifically, so do you own research to choose what's right. However, I will make a few notes about what I like about each one of them below.


PS. This section contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my little studio dreams!

 

A wooden outdoor greenhouse or sunroom with cedar framing, clear panels, and an attached pergola-style overhang on one side.

Backyard Discovery 9x6

What I like: it has a cute pergola out front, a window that opens, and its a bit longer than mine (same width), & it comes as a kit so easier than building it yourself.
A series of yellow wooden garden greenhouses with glass panels arranged side by side in an outdoor setting with trees.

Jocisland 8x9.5

What I like: It has double doors at the front, which is very awesome for getting different angels. It has few reviews, but they are all good. It's a bit bigger than mine, & I can see so much opportunity for decorating it!
Modern greenhouse structure with wooden deck platform shown from multiple angles in natural outdoor setting.

HOWE 8x10

What I like: The full glass is really nice! A lot of glass ones have glass you can see through, which means you'd have to have nothing around it that could compromise the photo. This one has the UV windows in it, which also blurs out the background.
Five wooden windbreak panels with glass inserts are arranged on green grass lawn with cloudy sky overhead.

Backyard Discovery Willow 9x6

Here's why I DON'T like it: This one looks super cute, but I wouldn't choose it for a studio due to the door placement. It limits the angels you can shoot at, making it less than ideal for a photoshoot. I just wanted to show you something I wouldn't buy!

 

Final Thoughts


A greenhouse studio gives you:

  • A cost-effective alternative to rentals
  • A flexible rain plan
  • Control over decor and styling
  • A space that can evolve with your brand


It’s not just about having a roof over your head. It’s about creating a reliable, professional, and unique experience for your clients. And for me, that made it one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business.


👉 Curious to see what I used to decorate mine? Check out my decor list here.