🎙 Episode — Behind the Scenes at The Arlen
Beauty Campaigns, Studio Growth & What’s Next
We’re back — and catching you up on everything happening behind the scenes at The Arlen.
After a little break, the three of us (Natalia, Michele, and Megan) are back on the mic talking through what’s been going on inside the studio — from our first full beauty campaign production to the growing pains (and wins) of building something bigger than just a rental space.
What We’ve Been Working On
We recently wrapped one of our first large-scale beauty campaign shoots at The Arlen, led by Megan — and let’s just say… it was a lot (in the best way).
We’re talking: • Full production days • Models, makeup artists, lighting setups • 10-hour shoot days • Multiple setups and moving parts
Honestly, it felt like shooting multiple weddings back-to-back — but inside our own space.
It pushed us creatively, logistically, and operationally — and gave us a really clear vision of what this studio is becoming.
Real Talk: What We’re Improving
With that kind of production comes a lot of learning.
We’re constantly asking: 👉 How can the space work better? 👉 How can we support bigger productions?
Some of the upgrades and ideas we’re working through: • Creating more dedicated shooting space • Investing in a heavy-duty boom for larger lighting setups • Improving the makeup / prep area • Better flow between rooms during multi-set shoots • Making the space easier to use for teams
We’re building this in real time — and bringing you along with us.
The Power of Behind-the-Scenes Content
One thing that really stood out during this shoot was how valuable behind-the-scenes content is.
Not just for marketing — but for storytelling.
Showing the process, the chaos, the creativity — it adds so much depth to what we do and gives clients a better understanding of the production side of things.
Also… we may have fallen a little in love with shooting BTS on Fuji 👀
What’s Coming Up at The Arlen
We’ve got a lot in the works — and we’re really excited about what’s ahead.
✨ Bridgerton-Inspired Open House
We’re planning a fully styled open house event (yes, think Bridgerton vibes) to bring the community together and showcase what the studio can do.
👉 Listen to the episode for a little discount drop 👀
📖 The Arlen Coffee Table Book
We’re brainstorming a larger creative project — a cohesive coffee table book featuring local creatives.
This would include: • Portrait sessions • Personal interviews • A deeper look into the creative community around us
Something meaningful, collaborative, and lasting.
🎤 Workshops & Speaker Series
We’re also exploring a fall speaker / masterclass series — bringing in photographers and creatives to teach, connect, and share knowledge.
Education is a huge part of what we want The Arlen to be.
Growing as a Team
We also talk about what it’s like working together — finding our rhythm, building our brand as a trio, and figuring out how each of us fits into the bigger vision.
There’s something really special about building a women-led creative space that supports collaboration instead of competition.
What’s Next
We’re heading into a season of growth, learning, and a lot of experimentation.
We’re also planning to attend: • Imaging USA • WPPI in Las Vegas
…to continue learning, connecting, and bringing new ideas back to The Arlen.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
We love hearing from you — what do you want us to talk about next?
Send us a message, submit questions, or come be part of the conversation.
