Experience the atmosphere of abandoned locations in the Experience Studio

Urbex portraits in the studio: the raw beauty of faded glory – right in the Experience Studio

Are you fascinated by the mysterious charm of abandoned buildings, peeling paint, and the atmosphere of faded glory? Then you've probably heard of urbex photography – an adventurous style where photographers seek out forgotten places to capture the mood of decay and silence. But did you know that you can capture this unique character right in the studio?

In the Experience Studio in Nieuw-Vennep, we've found a unique way to bring urbex to the studio: with three specially selected urbex backgrounds, we create a convincing, atmospheric environment where you can take beautiful portraits without having to search for illegal or inaccessible locations. And the best part is: in the studio, you have complete control over the light!

---

Urbex locations are scarce – but we bring them to you

Real urbex locations are rare in the Netherlands. Many of these places are inaccessible, heavily secured, or simply no longer exist. The risk of a fine or the danger of collapse also makes it not the safest hobby. That's why, in the Experience Studio, I've developed three realistic and atmospheric urbex backgrounds that give you the feeling of being in the middle of an abandoned factory hall, an old monastery, or a decaying theater – while working safely in our heated studio.

The combination of urbex atmosphere with studio techniques is invaluable. You can go in any direction with styling, light, and poses – from grungy fashion to mysterious portraits with character.

---

Studio flashes + urbex = a magical combination

What truly makes urbex portraits in the studio special? The answer: light control. In real urbex locations, you're at the mercy of the available (often minimal) natural light. In the studio, you have complete freedom to be creative with flash lighting.

Here are a few practical tips to take your urbex portraits to the next level:

1. Work with hard light for rawness

Use a reflector without diffusion or a small softbox at close range to create hard shadows. This gives that characteristic, raw look that perfectly suits the urbex theme.

2. Color filters for atmosphere

Use CTO or blue gels on your flashes to mimic the daylight that often comes through broken windows. Think of a cold, blue-green light from the left and a warm glow from the right for a contrasting, cinematic look.

3. Playing with backlight

Smoke or fog machines combined with a backlight create a dramatic effect. Think of a flash with a grid behind the model for that typical "light through the windows" effect you often see in real urbex photos.

4. Using shadows

Let parts of the face or body fall into shadow to enhance the mysterious atmosphere. You don't always have to perfectly light everything; urbex is all about imperfection and decay.

5. Styling completes the look

Have models wear clothing that fits the story: weathered fabrics, layers, boots, leather, or vintage elements greatly enhance the overall image. Combine this with a nonchalant pose or an intense gaze, and you have a powerful portrait.

---

Coming soon: Urbex Portrait Workshop in the Studio!

Are you excited and want to get started with this unique form of portrait photography yourself? Good news: our Urbex Portrait Workshop in the Studio is starting soon! During this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to create a series of impressive images using our urbex backgrounds, flash lighting, and styling. You'll learn all about lighting setups, color usage, and storytelling within this theme.

Whether you're a budding photographer or already have experience with portrait photography, this workshop offers plenty of inspiration, new techniques, and a good dose of creativity. And the best part: you don't have to brave dangerous ruins to capture the perfect urbex atmosphere!

Keep an eye on our website and social media for dates and registration information.

---

Do you want to expand your portfolio with powerful, unique images that stand out? Then book a session soon or sign up for the workshop. Urbex lives on – even in the studio!

📍 The Experience Studio – your place for creativity with character.