About Backstairs Studio
Backstairs Studio is an independent photography and creative production studio based in London. We work across portraiture, editorial, commercial and industrial photography for individuals, artists, brands, businesses, publications and agencies.
Our work ranges from individual photographic commissions to larger creative productions, combining photography, creative direction and production planning. We work from established briefs or develop projects from initial concept through to final delivery, collaborating with other creative professionals where required.
Approach
Our approach combines creative consideration with practical production expertise. We tailor each project to its objectives, scale and requirements, maintaining clear communication and a collaborative process throughout.
Brief & Direction
We establish the project's objectives, intended use, creative direction and practical requirements.
Planning & Production
We develop concepts, coordinate resources and manage the creative and technical elements of production.
Post-Production & Delivery
We oversee editing, finishing and final delivery to meet the agreed visual and technical specifications.
People
Kate Ann Joy
Studio Director & Chief Photographer
Kate Ann Joy is a London-based photographer and creative director working across portraiture, editorial and commercial photography.
As Studio Director and Chief Photographer, she oversees Backstairs' business operations, creative direction, photographic commissions and production management, leading both the commercial and creative development of the studio.
Alongside Backstairs, she maintains an independent photographic practice focused on portraiture, editorial and conceptual work.
The Studio
Backstairs operates from a dedicated photographic studio in North London, equipped for portraiture, editorial, product photography and smaller commercial productions.
Our facilities include:
- Professional photographic and lighting equipment
- Interchangeable backgrounds and studio accessories
- Space for controlled lighting and set preparation
- In-house photographic production and post-production
For larger productions, we arrange external locations, additional equipment and specialist collaborators according to the requirements of each project. Commissions can be undertaken in the studio, on location or through a combination of both.
- Size
- 210 sq. ft.
- Backdrop Colors
- Colorama 2.18m Backdrops | Black, White, Buttercup, Cappuccino, Carnation, Charcoal, Cherry, Chromakey Green, Forget-Me-Not Blue, and Storm Grey.
- Lighting System
- Combination of Godox strobes and Amaran Continuous RGB Studio Lights
- Light Modifiers
- A wide range of reflectors, umbrellas, softboxes, attachments, gels, v-flats, and more.
- Tethering & Display
- 32" monitor on rolling stand for display or shoot tethering
- Posing & Production Support Elements
- APPL boxes, 4x folding portrait stools, and a corner floor stand for backdrops or shoot props
- Equipment Wall
- All modifiers, stands, and backdrops are stored in our bespoke wall-storage system, maximizing available space and streamlining the use of our range of equipment.
- Shoot Flow
- We are currently installing a curtained changing area inside the studio space, enclosing a small makeup counter, plus an additional a full length mirror and a long table for workshops or product photography. All elements are designed to be stowed or folded away easily, maximizing floor space.