I am putting together a business plan that focuses on providing space, equipment, backdrops and lighting for professional and amatuer photographers to use. They bring their own cameras and models and rent my space.
I've seen this concept used with woodworking tools, and car repair. Do you feel it would be successful? Are there times you just wish you could go into a sterile environment and set up some shots? Heck, even e-bayers could take photos of their products, and web-video folks could shoot the shows.
Do any of you feel there is a market for this, and would you use it if it was in your hometown?
You definitely need to talk to and network with local photographers on this not a international website. Brab a phone book and start by asking if they know of any studio space for rent. You probably find that anyone that owns/rents studio space is willing to rent it out for a modest fee.
As for doing this as a business, I wouldn't count on this paying for all your bills.
I have seen a couple of camera shops that do this also.... at least they have a bit of traffic due to the shop side. If you are doing this, I would recommend to also [in addition to local photg's] get in with a shop or two and also the local clubs.
There are several studios like this in the SF Bay Area. They don't seem to be very well run or marketed but I see them advertise on Craig's List quite often.
