Frequently Asked Questions
At Ludere Studio, we understand that choosing the right photography service or studio hire can raise plenty of questions. To help, we have compiled answers to the most common enquiries about our Dorset-based luxury portrait, automotive, and commercial studios.
Whether you’re planning a family portrait session, an automotive shoot, or a brand campaign, you’ll find helpful details here about our services, location, booking process, and facilities. If your question isn’t covered, please do get in touch.
General FAQs
Where is Ludere Studio located?
Ludere Studio is based in Bearwood, ideally positioned between Bournemouth and Poole. We have direct road links to both towns, making the studio easily accessible. There are also convenient routes from Southampton and the wider Dorset area, ensuring smooth travel for clients across the South-West.
What are your opening hours?
We are open Monday to Saturday to accommodate a range of schedules for photography sessions and studio hires.
Do you provide parking at Ludere Studio?
Yes, there are up to seven (7) allocated parking spaces available free of charge directly outside our units for clients and visitors.
How far in advance should I book a session or studio hire?
We recommend booking at least four (4) to six (6) weeks ahead to secure your preferred date. This applies to both portrait and automotive sessions and studio hire.
Does my booking include a photographer or videographer?
When you book one of our in-house photography services, such as portrait, automotive, or brand sessions, a professional photographer is included as standard, unless otherwise agreed. Videographers are not automatically included but can be arranged at an additional cost. We work with a trusted network of professionals and are happy to recommend or book someone on your behalf.
Do you offer on-location photography or videography?
Yes, we provide on-location photography and videography within a set radius of the studio at no additional charge. For locations outside this area, a mileage fee applies. Please contact us for details.
Can I hire photographers or videographers separately from the studio?
Yes, we work with skilled photographers and videographers who can be booked independently or alongside studio hire. If you only need the space, we can recommend professionals or arrange a photographer or videographer to suit your needs.
Is photography or videography included with studio hire?
Unless otherwise stated, studio hire does not include a photographer or videographer. However, we can recommend professionals or arrange this on your behalf to suit your requirements.
Do you offer retouching services?
Retouching is included with all in-house portrait and automotive sessions and most brand photography packages. Our edits cover standard enhancements; more complex retouching may incur additional costs.
Portrait-Specific FAQs
How long does a typical portrait session last?
Portrait sessions usually last between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the type of session and client requirements.
What age do you recommend for newborn photo sessions?
We recommend scheduling newborn sessions within the first two weeks after birth to capture those delicate early moments.
When is the best time to book maternity (bump) photoshoots?
Maternity sessions work best between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy when the bump is nicely rounded and the mother feels comfortable.
Can I bring my pet to a family portrait session?
Absolutely, pets are very welcome at Ludere Studio. We offer exclusive pet portrait sessions as well as combined family and pet shoots.
What should I wear for a portrait session?
We advise neutral or solid colours and comfortable clothing. We also offer personalised styling advice to help you prepare.
Can I bring different outfits or props to my portrait session?
Yes, you’re very welcome to bring outfit changes, accessories, and meaningful props to your session. Whether it is a favourite toy for a baby, a pet’s lead or collar, or a change of clothes for a different look, we encourage anything that helps personalise your shoot. We have private changing facilities on site and are happy to advise on what works best on camera.
Automotive-Specific FAQs
Does my car or bike need to be clean before the automotive shoot?
We always recommend arriving with your vehicle as clean as possible to get the best results, especially under professional studio lighting. If needed, we can recommend trusted local detailing services ahead of your session.
That said, we understand you may have travelled to us, so we have a pressure washer on-site to remove any dirt or road grime, along with bug spray and premium cleaning products.
You’re also welcome to bring your own products if you prefer, and we suggest bringing a towel or chamois you trust. We do have a few on hand too.
Do you have suitable access for large vehicles?
Yes, both studios have roller door access and high ceilings, allowing easy entry for cars and other large vehicles.
How long do automotive shoots usually take?
Automotive sessions generally last between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the shoot and the number of vehicles involved.
Can I be present during the shoot?
Absolutely. We welcome clients to be on-site during the session and offer comfortable lounge spaces with tv’s and entertainment if you’d prefer to observe or wait nearby.
Do you provide lighting for automotive shoots?
Yes, our studios are equipped with advanced continuous and flash lighting systems tailored to highlight vehicle details perfectly.
Brand & Commercial FAQs
Can you accommodate brand launches or product launches?
Yes, our studios offer flexible space hire for brand activations, product launches, training sessions, and events.
Do you offer product photography?
Yes, we provide professional product photography for brands locally and nationwide. Clients can send products to our studio, which we handle carefully throughout the shoot.
Are your studios suitable for corporate headshots?
Yes, we provide professional headshot photography tailored to corporate and business clients looking to enhance their branding.
Do you provide videography facilities?
We offer studio lighting and space ideal for videography. Our network includes professional videographers available for hire.
Can I hire the studio for automotive or commercial shoots?
Yes, our commercial studio is purpose-built for automotive and large-scale product photography and set designs, featuring one of the largest infinity walls in the South-West and a suspended continuous light box. Our adjacent lifestyle studio is also available for hire, ideal for fashion, portrait, or product shoots that require a more refined, styled environment. Both studios can be hired independently or together for exclusive access.