The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Photography Locations in Erie, PA: Find Your Vibe

Last Scouted & Updated: February 20, 2026

By Chris Zdarko, Zdarko Photography

Let's be real: Erie weather doesn't always cooperate with our creative visions. One minute it's sunny, the next you're dodging rain, snow, or that weird in-between slush that makes everyone miserable. But here's the good news: Erie is absolutely packed with incredible indoor photography locations that'll make your portraits pop, rain or shine.

Whether you're booking a branding session to level up your business, a beauty shoot to celebrate yourself, or senior portraits that actually feel like you: the right location sets the entire mood.

But instead of throwing a random list of addresses at you, I'm organizing this guide around something way more useful: your vibe. Because the location you choose should reflect who you are and what you want your images to say about you.

Chair sitting against a seamless backdrop in a studio setting.

This Is a Living Guide (And We Need Your Help!)

Before we dive in, here's the deal: this guide is a work in progress, and I want it to showcase as many amazing local Erie businesses and spaces as possible. If you know of a cool spot I haven't mentioned yet: a new art gallery, a funky coffee shop with great light, an industrial warehouse that deserves some love: send it my way! I'm always on the hunt for new locations, and I'd love to feature more of what makes Erie special.

Have a location not mentioned?

Add to the list

Disclaimer: Please reach out and confirm pricing & availability before showing up.

Let’s Find your vibe:

  • The Polished Visionary

    The Message: Success, authority, and high-end aesthetics.

    Who This Is For: Entrepreneurs, CEOs, realtors, consultants, or anyone who wants their images to scream "I've got my act together."

    If your brand is all about sleek professionalism and modern confidence, you need a location that matches that energy. Think clean lines, dramatic lighting, and spaces that feel intentional.

    This is me.

  • The Authentic Storyteller

    The Message: Warmth, connection, and "real life."

    Who This Is For: Families, lifestyle brands, therapists, coaches, or anyone whose work is about genuine human connection.

    If your vibe is less "corporate polish" and more "let me tell you a story over coffee," then you need a location that feels lived-in and real. These are the spaces that make people say, "That's so you."

    This is me.

  • The Bold Individualist

    The Message: Uniqueness, grit, and non-conformity.

    Who This Is For: Artists, musicians, tattoo artists, fashion brands, or anyone who wants their images to have edge.

    You're not here to blend in. You want locations that pop, spaces with texture and attitude, places that make people stop scrolling.

    This is me.

  • The Ethereal Dreamer

    The Message: Soft, magical, light, and timeless.

    Who This Is For: Brides-to-be, beauty clients, maternity sessions, or anyone drawn to whimsical, romantic imagery.

    This is the vibe for dreamers and romantics: the people who want their images to feel like poetry. Soft light, natural textures, and an atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly.

    This is me.

  • Pro Resources & DIY

    The Message: Resourceful, Boundless, and Creative.

    Who This Is For: The DIY-ers, the explorers, and those who want to build a vision from the ground up using every tool in the Erie arsenal.

    Some of the best indoor photo options aren’t “a vibe” as much as they are a strategy—a flexible resource, a rentable space, or a DIY setup you can build in a pinch. This is the catch-all section for the misfits, the MVPs, and the “wait… that’s genius” ideas.

    This is me.

Do you own a local business – or know someone who does?

Let's work together to build a thriving community! Get your business featured below for some free exposure. The list may be small now, but with your help, it'll keep growing. Help our local photographers and community give your local business the attention it deserves!

#supportlocal

The Polished Visionary

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CAMErie Studios in Erie, PA.

Studio

CAMErie

A budget-friendly production space that delivers a clean, studio-quality look—without the “big studio” price tag.

  • 142 West 12th Street, Erie, PA

  • $60/year membership. ~3,500 sq. ft. facilities (large stage, 3D Texture Wall, 20-foot green screen). No equipment rental fees mentioned. Accessibility/rules: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-454-2226

    Email: info@camerie.org

Website
Mike Conway Studios in Erie, PA

Studio

Mike Conway Studios

Various backdrop options make it easy to create multiple looks fast—perfect for efficient, high-impact content days.

  • 1502 west 38th, Erie, PA.

  • Various backdrops available. Pricing/rules/accessibility: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-969-6286

    Email: mikeconwayphotography@gmail.com

Website

More Locations

Studio

Ferralli Studios

Pre-lit infinity cove perfection—ideal for commercial, branding, and that “shot in NYC” vibe (without leaving Erie County).

  • 2450 Dutch Rd, Fairview, PA

  • Studio Infinity Cove. ~1,100 sq. ft. pre-lit space. 180° white infinity cyc with overhead KinoFlo daylight-balanced lighting. Accessibility/rules: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-528-5439

    Email: info@ferralli-studios.com

Website

Studio

Project Media Lab

A versatile downtown production space—great for multiple setups and a polished, professional feel.

  • 1001 State St, Suite 1207 (Renaissance Center), Erie, PA

  • Multiple setups including green screen and production spaces. Accessibility/rules: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-844-1139

Website

Studio

Studio 1505 Partnership

A compact, straightforward studio option that works especially well for headshots and solo branding sessions.

  • 1505 State St, Erie, PA

  • 560 sq. ft. studio. Availability by inquiry. Accessibility/rules: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-384-5136 (Donald Keys)

Website

The Authentic Storyteller

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That Play Place in Erie, PA.

Business - Indoor Playground

That Play Place Erie

Bright, playful, and kid-friendly—perfect for capturing real giggles and movement with little ones (especially ages 7 and under).

  • 4423 Buffalo Road, Erie, PA

  • Great for kids 7 and under. Confirm photography rules/permissions, pricing, and accessibility before your session.

  • Phone: 814-520-4425

Website
Erie Studio 814 in Erie, PA PACA on State Street.

Multi-Concept Creative Studio

Erie Studio 814

Located in the PACA of Erie. A warm, character-filled space that feels like a cozy home-away-from-home. With its coffee bar and versatile furniture, it’s the ideal spot for relaxed family and newborn stories.

  • 4th Floor 1505 State St, Erie, PA 16501

  • Convenient Online Booking, for Insured Photographers Only.

    Family-friendly with access to props, furniture, and a coffee bar area. Great for lifestyle sessions that need a controlled, beautiful environment.

  • email: capturedbykaraphotography.llc@gmail.com

Website
Relaxapy Spa in Erie, PA

Business - Spa

Relaxapy Salt Cave & Spa

Calm, grounded, and wellness-forward—an intimate lounge vibe that feels peaceful and intentional.

  • 1101 Peninsula Drive, Suite 210, Erie, PA, United States, Pennsylvania

  • Booking by inquiry. Pricing/rules/accessibility: Call for details.

  • Email: relaxapyerie@gmail.com

Website

More Storyteller Vibes

Home

Your own home, Studio, Or Office

Cozy, personal, and effortlessly authentic—your real life is the set, and that’s what makes the photos feel so honest.

  • Your home (Erie County & surrounding areas)

  • No travel required. We’ll plan around the best natural light and your comfort. Rules/accessibility: N/A

  • N/A

Website

The Bold Individualist

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Placeholder Photo for Location.

Business - Bar

Room 33 Speakeasy Erie

Step back in time (Through a secret entrance) at Erie's premier speakeasy. With its moody lighting, vintage textures, and sophisticated hidden-gem energy, it’s the ultimate location for portraits that need a little mystery and a lot of character.

  • 1033 State St, Erie PA 16501

  • Dark wood, exposed brick, and vintage velvet. It’s a "low-light" lover’s dream.

    Best For: Moody branding, "nightlife" inspired portraits, or anyone wanting a sophisticated but gritty edge.

    *Call ahead to confirm

  • Phone: 814-636-5062

Website
Blend of Brand and Beauty Portrait in the garage door at the Shops at 19th. Image provided by Zdarko Photography

Business - Industrial Hub

The Shop 19

Effortlessly Cool, Gritty-Chic, Entrepreneurial Energy.

Want Ethereal? Head to the garden or the areas drenched in soft, natural window light.

Want Bold & Edgy? Find the moody high-contrast corners or the raw texture of the garage doors.

Want Authentic? The bustling energy of the creative studios inside provides the perfect "day in the life" backdrop.

  • 357 W. 19th Erie PA 16501

  • If you want your photos to scream "I’m building an empire," this is the spot. This 23,000-square-foot revitalized industrial gem is more than just four walls—it’s a heartbeat. With its soaring ceilings, massive windows that drench the space in "golden hour" light all day long, and those iconic CWest murals, it’s a masterclass in textures.

    Whether we’re leaning against the exposed brick for a "behind-the-scenes" branding session or using the raw, open floor plan for a bold editorial look, The Shop provides a backdrop that feels lived-in and legendary. It’s where Erie’s creative spirit lives, making it the ultimate playground for the visionary who isn't afraid of a little soul.

    Contact to confirm availability and pricing.

  • email: mccrearyliving@gmail.com

Website
Arcade Photoshoot, Erie PA. Photo Credit: Zdarko Photography.

Business - Arcade

Round One - Millcreek Mall

Neon lights, motion, and high-energy color everywhere—this place is basically a built-in “bold” filter for your photos.

  • 5800 Peach Street (Millcreek Mall), Erie, PA

  • Indoor arcade + bowling. Confirm photography rules/permissions, pricing, and accessibility before your session.

  • Phone: 814-813-1730

Website

More Bold, more you.

Business

1020 Collective

Industrial, artsy, and always evolving—rotating installations mean every shoot can look totally different.

  • 1020 Holland St, Erie, PA

  • Art + event space. Confirm current setup, pricing, rules, and accessibility before your session.

  • Phone: 814-983-8566

Website

Business

Chuck E. Cheese

Loud colors, arcade vibes, and pure playful chaos—in the best way. Great for quirky, high-saturation, “not taking myself too seriously” energy.

  • 7200 Peach Street, Erie PA.

  • Confirm photography rules/permissions, pricing, and accessibility before your session.

  • Phone: 814-864-3100

Website

Studio

Studio 1505 Partnership

A compact, straightforward studio option that works especially well for headshots and solo branding sessions.

  • 1505 State St, Erie, PA

  • 560 sq. ft. studio. Availability by inquiry. Accessibility/rules: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-384-5136 (Donald Keys)

Website

The Ethereal Dreamer

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Erie Studio 814 in Erie, PA PACA on State Street.

Multi-Concept Creative Studio

Erie Studio 814

Bathed in stunning natural light within the historic PACA building, this is a soft, private sanctuary perfect for boudoir, beauty, and timeless empowerment sessions.

  • 4th Floor 1505 State St, Erie, PA 16501

  • Convenient Online Booking, for Insured Photographers Only.

    Dedicated boudoir room, hair and makeup station, and softbox lighting included. Located in a historic building with tons of character.

  • email: capturedbykaraphotography.llc@gmail.com

Website
Footlights Theatre Erie PA, Photo credit by Zdarko Photography

Business - Dance Studio

Footlights Theatre Performing Arts Center

Timeless architecture and gorgeous natural light—an elegant, romantic indoor option that feels like a little escape.

  • 1504 Cherry Street, Erie, PA

  • Requires 3-day notice. Reasonable hourly rates. Stair access only (plan accordingly).

  • Phone: 814-566-0807

Website

More Locations

Business

Erie Art Museum

Artistic and softly elevated—perfect for portraits that feel cultured, curated, and a little bit dreamy.

  • 20 E 5th St, Erie PA 16507

  • Shoots allowed during business hours for a cover fee. Call ahead to confirm availability, rules, and accessibility.

  • Phone: 814-459-5477

Website

Business

Erie Children’s Museum

Whimsical color and playful installations—surprisingly magical when styled intentionally (and yes, it can work for more than kid photos).

  • 420 French Street, Erie, PA

  • Shoots allowed during business hours for a cover fee. Call ahead to confirm availability, rules, and accessibility.

  • Phone: 814-453-3743

Website

Business

Hagen History center

Classic, historic, and full of timeless character—great for soft, story-rich portraits with a little old-soul magic.

  • 356 W 6th St, Erie PA 16507

  • Pricing/rules/accessibility: Call for details.

  • Phone: 814-464-1813

Website

Pro Resources & DIY

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Some of the best indoor photo options aren’t “a vibe”…

Transforming Your Own Space:

Let's cover the practical stuff first:

  • Lighting: Good light is essential! Look for a space with big windows for natural light. If that's not possible, a few simple softboxes can work wonders.

  • Backdrops: You'll need space for a backdrop. It could be a traditional stand, seamless paper, or even a blank wall.

  • Camera Gear & Lenses: How much space do you need? It depends on your gear and the kinds of shots you take. (Longer focal lengths may be difficult in tight spaces)

  • Minimum Space: At the very least, plan for a space that's about 10 feet by 10 feet by 8 feet high. This gives you room to work with most subjects.

Now, the Vision: Once you have a sense of the setup, ask yourself: What mood do you want your photos to have? What kind of story do you want to tell? This will help you make choices about colors, props, and how you use your DIY studio.

Unexpected Backdrops: Don't limit yourself to traditional backdrops! Interesting textures and patterns can be found all around your home - think textured walls, patterned curtains, or even interesting floors.

The Power of Simplicity: Sometimes the most striking photos come from a minimalist setup. Highlight how a single well-placed light or a neutral wall can create incredible focus.

Rentals through 3rd party services:

Utilize a third-party service provider to booking your space. Just make sure to contact the host ahead of time to make sure they allow for photoshoots.

  • PeerSpace listings in Erie & surrounding areas (tailored especially for creatives and artists)

    • Pros: Tailored specifically to Photographers & Videographers.

    • Cons: They tend to have higher rates than the mentioned below options, with “minimum hours to book” (and in Erie, the selection in PeerSpace leaves a lot to desire)

  • AirBnB & VRBO also has some viable options.

    • Pros: Typically cheaper rates (by hour vs by night) over Peerspace.

    • Cons: Many locations don’t offer or allow photography or videography.

Other platforms specializing in creative space rentals include Giggster (https://giggster.com/). While their listings closest to Erie are currently a bit of a drive, it's worth checking them out. These platforms are growing, and they might be great resources in the future!

Important Note: Make sure to contact the host and notify them of your intent prior to booking. This is to ensure that they allow you to create in their space. Some spaces may allow for certain types of photography with exceptions, so it is important to cover these in detail with the host. You can even repurpose the script from section 2 and tailor it specifically to the property host.

Remember:

  • Booking Logistics: Make sure to check with each location about fees, availability, and photography policies.

  • Vision Matters: Working with your photographer to choose the space that aligns with the desired aesthetic & vision.

Found a spot that isn’t listed as a “photo location” but has great light? Love that for you. Just do it the right way.

Golden Rules of Scouting:

  • Ask First: Permission beats apologies—every time.

  • Be a Customer: Buy the coffee, tip the staff, respect the space.

  • Be Fast & Small: Minimal gear, minimal footprint, maximum respect.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Indoor Location?

Most importantly: match the space to the story you want your images to tell. That’s the entire cheat code.

  • The Polished Visionary: clean, modern, high-end, confidence-forward

  • The Authentic Storyteller: warm, natural, connected, real-life energy

  • The Bold Individualist: gritty, edgy, colorful, scroll-stopping personality

  • The Ethereal Dreamer: soft, timeless, romantic, a little magical

Want to book a session and see the Zdarko Brand Blueprint in action?

  • Hit the button below and let’s plan a location that fits your vibe (and makes your photos feel like you).

I need the blueprint!

Have a location not yet mentioned?

Add to the list

Bonus Toolbox

Restaurants & Event Venues:

Best-foot forward would be during an off-peak time to plan your shoot.

  • Look for locations that offer a specific look or vibe you are wanting to capture. Is this a dance club or a speak easy? Is it a local biker pub or a country bar? All of these provide very different stories withiin their images.

  • Erie is home to many popular local brewery’s as well! Whynot reach out and see about a shoot with you making your very own batch of beer?

  • Many restaurants have beautiful spaces, lobbys, and more! Next time you’re stuck waiting 90 minutes for your table, look around!

  • Don't underestimate the power of a cool coffee shop! Many Erie spots have awesome vibes… Just make sure to call ahead and verify.

Hidden Gems:

Lofts, converted warehouses, unique architectural marvels right under our noses!

  • Looking for an upscale vibe? Check out some high-end luxury hotel lobbies.

  • Erie is also home to many old warehouses, factory buildings, and much more.

  • This can even be something as simple as a suburban parking garage. (We’ll classify that as indoors as long as you’re not on the roof, right?)

Pro-Tips:

  • Think “Experience”: Go beyond just a location and explore places that offer a unique atmosphere or vibe.

  • Collaboration Focus: There are benefits for collaborating with businesses -exposure for both photographer and business.

  • Permits & Use: Some locations may require specific permits, licenses, or even additional insurance coverage to photograph within.

  • And Please, Please Please: Always be respectful of the business's needs and customers if they agree to a shoot.

Looking for Seasonal Inspiration? (Quick Wins)

  • Winter: lean into cozy (coffee shops, bookstores, warm neutrals) or go bold (neon, arcades, high contrast).

  • Spring: clean + fresh palettes, light layers, simple florals, bright window light.

  • Summer: airy lifestyle interiors, bright whites, beachy textures, big open shade near windows.

  • Fall: rich tones (rust, olive, caramel), leather/denim textures, moody low-light sets.