Photo studio launches downtown

A new photo studio has opened in downtown Springfield.

Co-founder Rafael Vite said Jan. 14 was the first day open for Urban Studios, which operates at 431 S. Jefferson Ave., Ste. 107, in Wilhoit Plaza.

"We created Urban Studios because we saw the need to provide more options to photographers, freelance content creators and business owners when it comes to an inside, natural- light studio space in downtown Springfield," Vite said via email. "We wanted to provide a blank canvas for people who don’t have a studio space of their own to bring clients and create whatever they’ve been envisioning."

Vite said Urban Studios' first booking is scheduled this afternoon.

At the studio, photographers can use backdrops, props, furniture and equipment. Pricing starts at $50 for a half hour, and membership options are coming soon, according to the company's website.

The Urban Studios team is made up of Vite, founder of digital marketing agency Primate Digital; Asantae Haanstad, owner of Asantae Photography; and Miguel Rivera, who specializes in social media marketing, according to a news release.

Suite 107 in Wilhoit Plaza has 1,384 square feet and was listed with SVN/Rankin Co. for $12 per square foot annually, according to LoopNet.com.