turning a tiny greenhouse into a photography studio

If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for new ways to blend creativity, storytelling, and a little bit of magic into your work. This spring, I turned a tiny backyard greenhouse into a whimsical photo studio, and yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds.


What started as a way to extend my shooting season, improve my work-life balance, and create more styled shoots for families and brands, quickly became my favourite corner of our property. And the best part? You can totally do this too, on a budget and with your own twist.

 

 

The vision


I didn’t just want a space to take photos. I wanted to step into a story. I imagined something that felt like a vintage picture book or a fairytale picnic, timeless, cozy, and full of character.


That meant natural light, muted tones, cozy seating, and props that spark connection. And it needed to work for my style of candid, storytelling photography, not stiff, posed portraits.


 

A sequence of photos showing a small wooden outdoor greenhouse with glass panels set in a backyard garden space.
Family shares tender moments together in a warm and cozy home setting with framed artwork in the background.
A rustic greenhouse interior with wood framing, decorated with a floral rug and hanging chandelier.
Someone stands in a floral dress outside a greenhouse decorated with photos on a wooden deck in a garden setting.
Rustic outdoor wedding reception tables set with floral tablecloths and greenery decor in a forest setting.
Two young children play and laugh together in a sunlit doorway of a cozy indoor greenhouse space with plants and decor.

 

What i used & where to find it


Here’s what brought this vision to life, and yes, I’ve linked everything on LTK so you can build your own version or style your sessions with similar touches.


The Greenhouse

→ It’s made by Yardistry, but I purchased mine from Costco (available seasonally). There is a model also made by Yardistry that is close to the one I have, you can find it here.


Flooring & Rug

→ The rug I used was actually the one we got married on! It’s a 2x5 foot rug from Rifle Paper Co.


Curtains + Soft Textures

→ The curtains I used are all thrifted, but I’ve linked similar ones here. The curtain under the benches is a bed sheet I put in half and draped over curtain rods we installed.


Styling Touches

→ This little greenhouse is the perfect spot for fairytale tea parties. I’ve linked some props inspired by my vintage finds, here.


Photography Must-Haves

→ I shoot with a Canon R6 and a 35mm lens. I’d also recommend having a tiny umbrella for your camera, in case it rains, a quality tripod, & a prism for unique shots. All of my photography gear can be found linked here.

 

 

I built this greenhouse for a photography studio, but…


If I’m being honest, I really built it for my own family’s core memories. My daughter loves to play shop out the window, we have impromptu tea parties all the time, I invite my friends over for craft night. It’s a magical space that I’d love even if I wasn’t a photographer. That being said, I love sharing this space with my clients!

 

Three connected photos show someone in a blue floral dress dancing and joyfully twirling on a patterned rug inside a wooden greenhouse.
A charming garden table setting with floral tablecloth, neutral plates, and delicate flower centerpieces.
Mirror reflection shows mother and baby brushing teeth together in bathroom with floral wallpaper background.