🎙 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.