For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)
Cover For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)

What do you need to take good photographs? A nice backdrop, a high-quality camera. . . a trigger button?

As a child, even if you left the class with a high mark or a huge star on your hand, it is not guaranteed that when you’re older, your head can still process every single detail that transpired in your past. In reality, not even the strongest of supplements can shield you from the wrath of memory loss. The trouble with the good times is that they always seem to happen in hindsight and this is why photographs are important. 

Today, photographs are the backbone of the internet, your social media feed is a little less lively without them—a reunion took place? People photograph it. Something fun happened? They snap a photo. Someone got a new hairdo? Must take selfies. The more unique and high quality these pictures are, the more they stand out. 

In the Philippines, there is a place where you can capture all your best moments without having to worry if the angle or the quality is bad. Say hello to self-shoot studios! 

In case you missed it: 'Photos Are More Than Snapshots': The Strange Fruit Collective On Photography In The Philippines

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 2 For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)
Photo 2 of 2 For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)

“Self studios are basically professional studios where you can get quality photos by yourself with a click of your finger. All the equipment you need is available at the studio - backdrops, lights, background music, a professional camera, and of course, a remote button! You can also get your photos colour-graded and printed right after you shoot,” says ATOMM, the Philippines’ first-ever self-shoot studio. 

“It’s perfect for people who easily get conscious in front of a camera especially when there’s a photographer present. There are some who say that self studios are just photo booths, but if they check out our social media feeds and the quality of the photos taken, we think they’ll change their minds."

The team shares that the idea of coming up with a self-shoot studio came after the series of lockdowns and social distancing protocols brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic served as a catalyst for everything. It's a risk, but what stands out from the ATOMM Team is that everyone has the core of perseverance, creativity, patience, and adaptability,” the team tells Tatler Philippines.

Related: Must-Know Smart Phone Photography Tips From Portrait and Fashion Photographer Artu Nepomuceno

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)
Photo 2 of 3 For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)
Photo 3 of 3 ATOMM is a pet-friendly studio (Photo: ATOMM Studios)

The ATOMM Studios team also believes studios that offer the same services as they have will be on the rise, evident in the number of people interested with what they do. As of this writing, the place is already fully-booked until May 2022. 

“We set our expectations really low in terms of the number of people that would book the studio in the beginning of operations given the current pandemic, but we remained optimistic. We were surprised to find that there were a lot of people who booked, our schedule is already fully-loaded until summer,” the team discloses. 

On Safety and Privacy

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)
Photo 2 of 3 For this write-up, we talk to the team behind ATOMM Studios, the Philippines' first-ever self photo-studio (Photo: ATOMM)
Photo 3 of 3 Miss Universe Philippines top 16 finalist Rousanne Marie “Ayn” Bernos (Photo: ATOMM Studios)

Guests would be delighted to know that ATOMM Studios values privacy. The team is very hands-on when it comes to the process of saving and developing photos. “We don’t let anyone outside the team handle client files or messages sent to us. Prior to posting any photos on social media, we ask for the client’s permission, and even when they change their minds, we would gladly remove the post.” 

The studio also plans to install a data-wipe program in their storage. “Our clients are happy that our studio is a safe space and we plan on further cultivating that experience,” the team says eagerly.

More from Tatler: Framing Opportunities: Seeking Gender Diversity and Equality in Photography

ATOMM Studios team provides a safe space where customers are encouraged to be their most confident and creative selves. 

“We try our best to keep the concept of ATOMM as simple as possible to give our guests the opportunity to showcase their creativity and personality. Every session is a collaboration between us and the guest. Even though they are in control, it’s still a two-sided project. Thus, a burst of creative energy is created in every session. At the end, it is very rewarding to see the guests enjoy themselves and get excited when they see the results of their photos. It’s inspiring to hear a lot of our guests tell us that they feel seen and confident at ATOMM Studios,” the team proudly shares.

The Future of Self-Shoot Studios

At a time when our connections and perceptions of each other heavily rely on the internet, it only seems natural for us to upload pictures that display the best versions of ourselves.

As of writing, the business is slowly gaining traction. The country currently has three known self-shoot studios and locals can’t help but wonder if there will be more.

“There are some others who have already started their own self-shoot studio businesses, but we are proud to be the first in the Philippines,” shares ATOMM. “We are also very excited for our expansion plans and are happy that we are one of those to provide this type of service to our kababayans.” 

NOW READ

17-Year-Old Ganden Medved-Po Launches Photography Book For The Benefit of WWF

What Is 'Fotomoto' and How is it Pushing the Filipino Photography Scene Forward?

The Re-Emergence Of Film Photography: Its Impact, Why People Prefer It, And More

Topics