Looking for photo studio rental prices in Montreal but can’t get a clear answer? You’re not alone. Most studios list their rates in half-day or full-day blocks, which makes comparison tricky when you just need two hours for a portrait session.
In this article, we lay out the numbers – honestly, no marketing fluff. Market ranges, what drives the price, and how to choose the right studio for your project and budget.
What Affects Photo Studio Rental Prices in Montreal
Before we talk numbers, it’s worth understanding why two studios can show such different rates. It’s not random.
The size of the space A 600 sq ft studio doesn’t cost the same as a 2,000 sq ft space. Bigger means more rent, more upkeep, more staff. If your project doesn’t need a large space, an oversized studio costs you more without giving you better results.
What’s included Some studios include lighting in the base rate. Others charge it as an extra. A professional flash kit can add $50 to $80 to your bill if you don’t see it coming. Always check what’s included before you book.
Location A studio on the Plateau or in downtown Montreal will reflect the commercial rent of that neighbourhood. A studio in Centre-Sud or Saint-Henri will generally be more affordable without necessarily sacrificing quality.
Type of project Many studios have different rates depending on whether you’re doing personal, commercial, or video work. An advertising shoot can cost 30% to 50% more than the same duration for a personal project.
Add-ons Evening rates after 6pm, weekend fees, freshly painted backdrop, overtime hours – these costs add up fast and aren’t always visible in the listed price.
Price Ranges in Montreal in 2026
Here’s an honest picture of the market, based on studios currently available in Montreal.
Small Studios (600 to 800 sq ft)
Accessible spaces, often self-managed, ideal for portrait photography, lifestyle, content creators, and small productions.
- Per hour: $35 to $80
- 2 hours: $70 to $150
- Half day (4h): $150 to $200
- Full day (8h): $280 to $450
Medium to Large Studios (1,000 to 2,000 sq ft)
More space, often more backdrops and available equipment, but the pricing structure changes – usually no hourly rental.
- Half day (4h): $260 to $425
- Full day (8h): $450 to $550
- Commercial/video: up to $550+ per day
Specialized Studios or Event Spaces
For large productions, advertising shoots, or spaces with multiple integrated sets.
- Per hour: $90 to $120+
- Per day: $500 to $1,000+
What You Get at Studio Popcorn – Full Transparency
Le Studio Popcorn is a 600 sq ft studio located in Centre-Sud, steps from Frontenac metro. Here are our exact rates, taxes included, no hidden fees.
Weekdays
- 1 hour: $70
- 2 hours: $95
- 3 hours: $105
- 4 hours: $140
- 8 hours: $280
Weekends
- 1 hour: $80
- 2 hours: $105
- 3 hours: $115
- 4 hours: $190
- 8 hours: $380
What’s included with every booking:
- Continuous (key) light included
- 7 backdrop options (white, black, grey, beige walls, vinyl, paper, white curtain)
- Changing room
- Makeup station
- Steamer, fridge, microwave, sink
- Couch and armchairs
- Elevator and freight elevator access
- Parking included
What you need to bring: Our single-point continuous lighting works well for certain portrait, lifestyle, and video content projects, but if your style of work requires studio flash or more continuous light, that’s important to know before you book.
How to Choose Based on Your Project and Budget
Not every project needs a big studio. Here’s a simple guide.
Doing portrait photography, headshots, or lifestyle? A 600 sq ft studio is usually more than enough. You don’t need 2,000 sq ft for a two-person session in front of a white backdrop. A small, well-equipped studio will give you the exact same result for two to three times less.
Running a commercial production with a large crew? Then size matters. Accounting for crew, equipment, and multiple sets justifies a larger studio, even at a higher rate.
Working with a tight budget? It’s often smarter to book 2 hours at a small studio and take the time to experiment, than to book 1 hour at an expensive studio and spend the whole time rushing. The quality of your work comes from peace of mind, not square footage.
Creating content or shooting light video? Check if continuous lighting is included. If it is, you can often skip the flash setup entirely, which makes small studios very competitive for this type of project.
The Real Question to Ask Before You Book
The hourly rate is rarely what makes the difference. What really matters: does this studio meet the needs of your specific project?
Take 5 minutes before booking to ask yourself:
- How much space do I actually need?
- What lighting is included, and is it enough for my project?
- Is the studio easy to access with my gear?
- Is the listed price all-inclusive, or are there add-ons?
To see if Le Studio Popcorn is the right fit for what you’re looking for, check out our booking page or reach out directly – we get back to you fast.
Le Studio Popcorn is located at 2065 rue Parthenais #412, Montreal (Centre-Sud), near Frontenac metro station. Open 7 days a week, 7am to 10pm.