Photo Studio Group, Ann Arbor

The 5,100-square-foot studio at Photo Studio Group is a blank canvas upon which a community of visiting and member artists stages their craft. For an hourly rate, photographers can click their shutters at a professional studio backdrop and use lights, backgrounds, and grip equipment on a first-come, first-served basis. A series of workshops bring the ins and outs of the industry into focus, including a class on studio techniques that covers set design, hair and makeup collaboration, and teaching mannequins to hold a pose. Photo foundations workshops focus on topics such as camera equipment and composition, and Photoshop workshops introduce students to the image-enhancing software and other Creative Suite applications. Photo Studio Group also hosts a pro lecture series, where esteemed photographers and designers chat about their techniques in a casual setting.