FAQ
We get a lot of questions about here at Lightbox! Below we’ve compiled the most asked questions to make your experience using our space as smooth as possible!
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS?
Lightbox is open by reservation only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Monday through Thursday is reserved for members only, but if you're looking to book a weekday reservation of three hours or more, just reach out here and we’ll do our best to accommodate!
Note: Our hours shift a bit during the winter months due to daylight savings — check back here for seasonal updates!
WHERE DO I PARK?
Our lot is accessible off Washington Ave — you’ll exit onto Commercial Street.
If all of our on-site spots are taken, you’re welcome to use public overflow parking in front of Ace Hardware, just a half block west of the studio on Commercial Street.
WHERE CAN I FIND THE ENTRANCE?
You’ll enter through the gray metal door on the east side of the building. There is an entrance sign on the door so you’ll know you’re in the right place!
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM RENTAL TIME?
For photo shoots, the minimum rental is:
1 hour in The Loft
30 minutes in The Edison
For private events, there’s a 2-hour minimum rental.
AM I REQUIRED TO PAY FOR MY APPOINTMENT IN FULL UPON BOOKING?
Yes, all appointments must be paid in full at the time of booking. Please note that we do not offer refunds for cancellations
IF I NEED TO RESCHEDULE MY RESERVATION, IS THERE A FEE?
While we don’t offer refunds for cancellations, you’re welcome to reschedule your appointment (a rescheduling fee may apply).
We just ask that you let us know your new date and time within 48 hours of your original reservation — even if the new session is further out. All reschedules are subject to Lightbox’s availability, so the sooner you reach out, the more flexibility we’ll have!
WHAT IS THE PROP CLOSET?
The Prop Closet is a curated selection of styling items available to use during your rental of The Loft. It’s a great way to add a little extra character to your shoot! You can check out everything that’s included right here.
ARE THERE ANY EXTRA FEES WHEN I RESERVE LIGHTBOX?
Just a few optional add-ons, depending on your needs:
After-hours bookings (outside of standard rental hours) have a flat fee of $25
Seamless paper backdrops in The Loft can be added for $10
If you need additional lighting, add on our ring light (Loft) or LED panels (Edison) for $15
DO YOU HAVE AN ELEVATOR INSIDE LIGHTBOX?
Lightbox does not have an elevator. The Loft is located upstairs and is only accessible by staircase. If you need a wheelchair friendly option, The Edison, is located on the ground level and is fully accessible.
DO YOU PROVIDE A PHOTOGRAPHER WHEN I RENT A SPACE?
We do not provide a photographer with your rental. You're welcome to bring your own photographer or simply use your phone or personal camera—whatever works best for you!
WHEN IS THE LIGHTING BEST FOR PHOTO SESSIONS IN EACH SPACE?
Since Lightbox is a natural light studio, brightness can vary depending on the weather—especially cloud cover. Here's a general guide for the best lighting:
The Loft: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (summer months)
The Edison: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (summer months)
You’re always welcome to bring in your own lighting gear or use our overhead lights. You can also rent our ring light (Loft) or LED panels (Edison) for $15 if you'd like a little extra light.
CAN I USE CONFETTI OR HANG THINGS UP ON THE WALLS OR ROLLING BACKDROP?
Yes—but with a few guidelines!
All items must be hung using command strips or painter’s tape, and everything must be removed by the end of your rental.
If you’re planning to use confetti, please use paper confetti only.
Foil or glitter confetti is not allowed, as it can damage the studio floors.
CAN I USE LIGHTBOX FOR VIDEO PRODUCTION?
Yes, you can! Just note that The Loft and The Edison may be rented separately, so we cannot guarantee a quiet space unless you've booked the entire building.
If you're planning to record audio, we recommend renting the full space to ensure minimal background noise.
Not sure if you need both spaces? Feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help you decide!
WHAT SPACES ARE AVAILABLE FOR EVENT RENTALS?
The Edison: Our main event room on the ground level, featuring historic brick and stone walls, a cozy minimalist vibe, and included tables and chairs. You’ll also have access to the lobby and kitchenette. It’s perfect for 25–30 guests.
Full-Building Rental: If you need space for up to 50 guests, you can reserve the entire Lightbox. This gives you everything in The Edison, plus The Loft (our full second level), for even more room to spread out.
CAN I RENT JUST THE LOFT FOR AN EVENT?
Because The Loft is on the second level and separate from the lobby and kitchenette, it’s only available for event rentals when you book the entire building
HOW DOES SET UP WORK FOR EVENTS?
All setup, decorating, and cleanup must be completed within your rental period, and we ask that you return the space to the condition you found it by the end of your reservation. If you’d rather skip the heavy lifting, we offer a table & chair setup service—pricing varies based on your needs. Just let us know, and we’ll send over the details!
DO YOU HAVE A KITCHEN?
Yes! We have a small kitchenette available for your use. It includes:
A full-sized fridge
Microwave
Two catering drop sinks to help keep beverages cool
We do not have an oven, stovetop, or heating trays, so please plan accordingly if you're serving hot food.
DO YOU PROVIDE DISPOSABLE CUTLERY OR DISHES FOR EVENTS?
We don’t provide any cups, plates, cutlery, or ice—so if you’re planning to serve food or drinks, be sure to bring along any disposable items you’ll need!
CAN I SERVE ALCOHOL DURING MY EVENT?
Yes, alcohol is allowed! We recommend hiring a licensed bartending company if you plan to serve or distribute alcohol during your event.
CAN I DO A NON-HOLIDAY THEMED PHOTO SESSION DURING NOVEMBER OR DECEMBER?
Yes—in The Loft! Even with Christmas decor up, there are plenty of blank areas where you can create a non-holiday look. You’ll have access to:
A rolling backdrop (white on one side, textured tan on the other)
The option to add a seamless backdrop of your choice
Please note that The Edison is fully decorated for Christmas, so it has fewer blank backdrops available—and all fixed holiday decor (trees, wall and mantle pieces) must remain in place.