When the Venue Catfishes You: A DJ Portfolio Shoot Gone Off Track… and Back On Again
Not every creative shoot goes according to plan—and this one was a lesson in rolling with the punches. We were booked for a portfolio session with an up-and-coming DJ in Los Angeles who wanted artistic shots to elevate her brand. She found a studio on Peerspace that looked like a dream, but what we walked into was anything but. Hidden inside an auto body shop, we had to step over used tires and duck under ladders just to reach a tiny converted office that barely fit three people. The lighting was terrible, and the vibe? Completely off. Ten minutes in, we knew this wasn’t it. But instead of letting it defeat us, we regrouped, loaded our gear, and drove through LA until we stumbled upon an empty parking lot at golden hour. That’s where the real magic happened—minimal backdrop, pure energy, and a creative team that doesn’t quit. If there’s one thing this experience reminded us: don’t overcomplicate the process. Stay optimistic, be adaptable, and trust your instincts. Oh—and always check the Peerspace reviews.
Cover Image Courtesy of Nainoa Shizura
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a fresh creative shoot with an up-and-coming artist—especially one with a vision. We were booked to photograph a rising DJ in Los Angeles who was looking to update her portfolio with some edgy, artistic content. She had booked a space through Peerspace, and based on the listing photos, it looked like a dream: moody lighting, industrial-chic backdrops, a vibe that screamed underground creative renaissance.
Except… that’s not exactly what we got.
Upon arrival, we were immediately thrown off. The address took us to an auto body shop—yes, a full-blown working shop with used tires stacked high, scattered auto parts, and ladders leaning in every direction. One of them nearly fell on us as we tried to navigate our way in. It was giving more “tetanus shot needed” than “creative studio vibes.”
At the end of our obstacle course, we were led to a small back office that had been converted into a makeshift "studio space." And while we admire the hustle of turning unconventional spaces into something functional, this one just didn’t deliver. It was way smaller than advertised, the lighting was non-existent (hello, flash photography), and the energy quickly started to fizzle out. Ten minutes in, we were creatively and emotionally drained.
But like any team of seasoned professionals, we didn’t pack up and call it quits.
Instead, we looked at each other, took a deep breath, and did what creatives do best—pivoted.
We ended the session early, loaded up the gear, and took a drive around Los Angeles until we found an open, empty parking lot bathed in golden hour light. No fancy props. No curated studio. Just pavement, light, and a client ready to make magic. And magic is exactly what we made.
📸 The final images? Bold, raw, and everything our client needed.
🚘 The takeaway? You don’t always need a Pinterest-perfect space to create portfolio-worthy shots. Sometimes the best moments come when you simplify the process, stay optimistic, and trust your team.
Lessons for Fellow Creatives and Clients Booking Through Peerspace:
Read the reviews — Don’t just go off the photos. Look for recent feedback.
Check the location on Google Maps — Street view can give you a better feel for the surrounding area.
Understand the cancellation policy — Just in case the space doesn’t live up to expectations.
Come prepared — Always pack backup lighting and a mindset that can adapt on the fly.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a DJ building your brand or a photographer trying to deliver a five-star experience, the creative process isn’t always smooth. But that’s what makes it rewarding. It's in the moments of challenge where the magic happens—especially when you’ve got a team that knows how to pivot with grace, grit, and a camera in hand.
Thinking of booking a creative session in Los Angeles? Let’s connect. Whether it’s an alley, rooftop, or (yes) even a parking lot—we’ll help you make it unforgettable.