IN 2023, many of us consider ourselves to be professional selfie-takers thanks to technology and the need to post on social media.
But a new selfie studio in New York City is redefining what it means to take your own photos.
I recently visited FotoLab — which is billed as New York's first self-portrait studio — after watching it go viral on Instagram.
The colored backgrounds and professional-looking pics caught my eye, and I was intrigued to try it out for myself — so I booked the cheapest package they offer, a 20-minute session for $80.
'DON'T BE AFRAID TO DANCE'
Though I admittedly enjoy being in front of a camera, I'm not always photogenic — so ahead of my 20-minute selfie session, I asked Emily Croft of Croftography how to make the most of my studio time.
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“Be goofy, make yourself laugh," she advised.
"Those are going to be the pictures that mean the most to you that you’re like, ‘That looks like me!’”
The professional photographer also advised using momentum by "facing away and then looking at the camera, or even dancing around.”
"You don’t want it to just be like 50 photos of you with your hand on your hip.”
Croft also said not to overlook the advice shared on shows like America's Next Top Model.
“Make sure you’re shifting. Don’t be afraid to act like a model," she said.
“Keep your chin down. A lot of times when people are getting their picture taken … they smile and their chin goes up. Point your forehead towards the lens rather than thinking about lowering your chin.”
Croft's biggest piece of advice was ultimately what led me in the right direction.
"Don’t be afraid to dance," she said.
"Make a choice. The more choices you make, the more there is to work with. Don’t be afraid to be strong and wrong.
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“It’s about giving yourself options. Not being afraid to do something silly, or to go a little bit outside of your comfort zone."
THE SPACE
After checking out FotoLab's website and social media handles, I knew what to expect for the most part.
The entire setup is super impressive and includes the two individual photo studios, a makeup/touchup station, multiple sitting areas, and tons of bright, natural light throughout.
Alan Li, the co-owner and co-founder of FotoLab, said he was inspired to open the space by photo studios in Korea.
"This concept is actually pretty popular over there," Li said.
"Supposedly, they’re self-proclaimed to be the inventor of the selfie back in the day. They’re [Korea] usually ahead of the curve in terms of photo taking."
When Li and his partner — co-founder and co-owner Jamie Kim — moved to New York last October, they realized that those spaces didn't exist here — so they opened FotoLab in January.
The studios are set up to help people capture anything from acting headshots to LinkedIn photos to family portraits and more.
There are two price points: $80 for 20 minutes, or $160 for 50 minutes.
“I think the way we price it is quite reasonable here,” Li said. He noted that many professional photographers offer similar sessions for upwards of $500.
The pet-friendly studio also provides space for those looking to host a birthday or bachelorette party.
'A FUN EXPERIENCE'
Li said people should embrace the fun of the experience over putting pressure on the photo session.
“Usually when you phrase it like that, it can be less intimidating than going in front of a photographer.”
For the camera shy, Li said that the beauty of the experience is the privacy offered.
"Inherently, the concept makes people feel a little bit more comfortable than they would with a general photographer.
"Then, in terms of some people that may or may not have as much experience with poses, we generally give some tips. We also show them our Instagram to see what other people have done.
"We’re also in the process of making a booklet so that people can sort of flip through different styles and poses.”
Li said the booklet will offer inspiration for individuals as well as couples.
He and Kim have been especially impressed by the Gen-Zers who have come to the studio and posed in ways they hadn’t thought of before.
TAKEAWAYS
Everything about my FotoLab experience was better than I anticipated.
The entire space was bright and welcoming and had a fantastic, vibrant energy that made me excited to get in front of the camera.
I spent about 20 minutes in Room 1, taking full and half-body self-portraits on a white backdrop.
Li showed me how to utilize the camera's clicker, which was a bit tricky at times, but ultimately helped me capture some great photos.
I laughed and giggled the entire session and wasn't afraid to hold back and try something new because there was no one there but me.
It was easier to lean into the desires I had for certain shots because I was in control of snapping the pics.
I also had the chance to try Room 2, which offers half-body self-portraits on a color backdrop — in this case, their coral pink background.
At the end of my session, I was able to look through all of the photos I took and choose three to be printed right there.
For an additional charge, you can also opt to receive the entire digital gallery of stills.
Thanks to Croft's expertise, Li's insight, and my own personal experiences, I walked away with dozens of incredible new photos for personal and professional use — and a desire to go back and do it all again.
