Self-photo studios are nothing new, but for some reason, it has become all the rage these days.

Maybe it’s because we’ve come to a point where everybody’s addicted to taking photos – and if we’re being honest – a little too much and too often.

In any case, these studios are complete lifesavers! It’s perfect for those who are camera-shy and those who end up being awkward in front of photographers (like me). Plus, you’ll end up with editorial-level photos. What’s not to love?

Whether you want to try a new experience, be diligent with your efforts to bring something new to the gram, or secure a sleek shot of yourself without shelling out a lot of money (getting your photos taken can be pretty dang expensive!), then you’re in for a treat at this studio! The best part is that it’s only in Quezon City!

Before anything else, how does a self-photo studio work anyway? 

If you’re one of the uninitiated, here’s what you need to know:

• Enter the photo room where you’ll find the professional camera and lighting setup. There’s a huge mirror-like monitor for real-time viewing of photos, and a tripod for you to mount your phone in, should you wish to record the whole experience.
• Expect some test shots before the attendant sets up the timer and leaves you to get busy with your private photoshoot.
• Think of the space as your own room, and pose to your heart’s content! You’ll be given a remote shutter to take as many photos within the allotted time, and there is also a screen in front so you can check your pose. 
• After the photoshoot, choose the best snaps for printing, and you may also secure raw copies if you like. 

SNAPZZ Studios 

Back to SNAPZZ! I was just looking for a place to get my professional work photos taken when the idea of trying this DIY studio suddenly surfaced from the back of my mind. My previous officemate once shared her experience here, and the impression I got was that it was pretty decent. I can accomplish my goal and have a bit of fun with my bestie. So why not, right? 

I stalked SNAPZZ Studios for a bit, and it didn’t hurt that they had a lot of good ratings/reviews on their page. A few hours later, I found myself planning an appointment with my bestie! 

Booking an appointment

If you’re game to have a taste of this self-photo studio experience with your bestie, all you need to do is book an appointment. The packages and add-ons are already displayed on the page, and you can choose from Basic Package or Family/Group Package. 

Basic Package – PHP900.00

• Full color or B&W
• Good for 1-2 pax
• 15 mins. photoshoot + 10 mins. photo selection
• 2 pcs single photo (4×6) + 2 pcs. Korean photo grid
• All Soft Copies w/ SNAPZZ Preset 
• Choice of black, white, mocha, dark gray, light gray, pink, yellow, and nude backdrop (one backdrop for each session only)

Family/Group Package – PHP1,500.00

• Full color or B&W 
• Maximum of 5 pax 
• 20 mins. photoshoot + 10 mins. photo selection
• 1 single photo (4×6) + 1 Korean photo grid (each pax) 
• All Soft Copies w/ SNAPZZ Preset 
• Choice of black, white, mocha, dark gray, light gray, pink, yellow, and nude backdrop (one backdrop for each session only)

There’s a minimal fee for an additional person (starts at PHP150) or photo print (starts at PHP50). They also operate on a no-payment, no-reservation term. 

Note: They are pretty strict with the rebookings, and you won’t be allowed to change your appointment 1-2 days before. Keywords: won’t be allowed. If you think there’s a conflict with your schedule, best to tell them way ahead of time. 

Studio location

Pin this address already: 36 Scout Tobias Street, Diliman, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila

My friend and I visited this place via car, and sadly, I won’t be able to share any commute details. You’ll pass by houses and some small establishments before getting to SNAPZZ Studios. Just make sure to keep an eye out for Selener because if my memory serves me right, the signage can be a little difficult to spot. The curtains are probably drawn most of the time too! 

Once you reach the studio, just ring the doorbell, and the attendant there will gladly assist you. 

ALSO READ: Get a Taste of Delicious Coffee From This Charming Korean Cafe in QC That Also Empowers PWDs

Inside the studio 

It was my first time being in a self-photo studio so I don’t really have anything to compare it to. My first impression – the lobby itself was tidy (whitewashed walls, classic tables and chairs aesthetic) but I expected it to be more spacious in person.

There’s a full-body mirror by the door – the perfect spot to be vain and to take selfies. Your eyes will also instinctively land on the wall (it’s pretty hard to miss), and you’ll see a curated display of what I assume are the best photos from their previous customers. I wonder if we made the cut. Chz. If you see us there, let me know! While you’re at it, take a look at the different snaps for pose ideas! My bestie and I planned to copy a few poses from the wall but ended up forgetting everything hahaha. 

You can indulge in the self-service pastry corner for bread, cake, and coffee while waiting for your turn, or maybe after your session while the digital copies are being printed. At the time of our visit, the goodies were probably all sold out, so we just patiently waited for the attendant to call us. Lastly, there is a clean restroom (love this!) if you need to freshen up before the session. 

Photoshoot time 

My friend and I chose the bright pink shade as the backdrop because our peg was pure kababaihan. Lol. We dolled up for this!! We need that pop of color!

I don’t know if it’s just me but the room was bigger than the lobby. There’s a huge, fancy mirror inside, some stools, and white boxes. I failed to ask if there are props so you might want to confirm that in case you want to be extra. Before our “Start” timer, the friendly attendant briefed us about the whole process and even helped us set up our own phone recording. 

For the actual photoshoot, I wouldn’t say it was smooth all the way only because my bestie and I are awkward peeps. We were definitely lost, I’m not gonna lie! Lol. “Wala ngang magjjudge sa’tin dito pero ‘di naman tayo marunong magpose!!” (No one will judge us here, but we don’t even know how to pose!). That instance immediately presented itself as a pro and con to me. Haha. 

It took us a good 3 minutes before we finally warmed up and tried all sorts of poses. We realized that we were there to have fun and take good snaps. No one’s looking so we don’t have to be too reserved! Plus, we needed to be quick if we wanted to pull off our outfit changes. We only have 15 minutes for this shoot.

It was fuuuun! With a remote shutter in hand, you can just confidently look at the camera and strike a pose, all while flashing that mischievous smile! Or you know, you can choose not to.

Bestie snaps

You’ll be timed as you choose the photos for the printed copies. Make sure to select the best ones and ask for the raw files to be sent to your email! Our photo experience took place last September 2022. My bestie and I opted for the Basic Package, and we had to pay an additional fee to get all the raw copies. I think SNAPZZ Studios recently modified their package to automatically include all the raw copies, so that’s better!

Some self-photo studio tips: 

I’m no expert, but sharing here some tips that might help you in your self-photo studio experience! 

Practice your poses ahead of time

Make the most out of your session by striking various poses on autopilot! My bestie and I were lost for the first few minutes. We didn’t know what to do or how to pose, and we ended up thinking in between shots a lot longer than expected. You are supposed to take as many photos as you can, not space out for as long as you can, so there’s that. 

Plan your outfit and outfit change 

You already have an idea of the backdrop prior to getting to the studio because that’s something you choose when you book online. Plan the best outfit (color-wise) to go with the backdrop! If you have ideas for an outfit change, go ahead and plan that one too! 

Be smart with the outfit change 

Plan the best way to change to save time. Your timer won’t be paused even if you wish to, so wiggling your way out of a super-tight jumpsuit to change into a dress with a lot of straps doesn’t seem like a good idea. As you plan the best way to change, you should also consider how to keep things simple. Should you opt for a simple dress that’s easy to wear? Your call! That will save you extra seconds! 

Hide the remote shutter

We all want to look more natural in our shots, and the trick is to hide the remote shutter! Trust me, it could make all the difference! 

That’s about it! ‘Til the next story!