Best Locations to Shoot Car Photography in Los Angeles

July 27, 2025

Yukon 5 - Large Blackout Photo Studio for rent with RGB Ceiling & car access in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a major hub for car photography, where skilled automotive photographers typically earn between $150 and $300 per hour, with top professionals commanding even higher rates. Whether you’re capturing sleek sports cars against the city skyline or classic vehicles in a controlled studio setting, LA offers the perfect combination of high-end production facilities and visually striking locations to bring any automotive vision to life.

FD Photo Studio: Professional Car Photo Studios for Rent in Los Angeles

When seeking the ultimate controlled environment for car photography, FD Photo Studio leads the market with specialized car photo studio for rent options designed specifically for automotive shoots.

Olympic 3: The Professional’s Choice

Address: 3316 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023

Located in Downtown Los Angeles, Olympic 3 features a large white cyc wall, RGB LED tunnel, and a turntable. This premier car photo studio offers everything needed for commercial-grade automotive photography:

Key Features: Large white cyclorama wall, RGB LED tunnel, a turntable.
Parking: Available on-site parking.

Best Locations to Shoot Car Photography in Los Angeles - — Olympic 3 Cyc wall

Yukon 1: Versatile Corner Cyc Studio

This studio boasts a large corner cyclorama wall, providing a seamless and versatile background for all your photo and video projects. The studio also has on-site parking. Perfect for:

Clean, professional automotive product photography
Commercial dealership photography
Brand campaigns requiring pristine backgrounds

Yukon 4: Large Production Studio

A studio Yukon 4 is designed for large productions with a 16 ft high ceiling and 1860 sq ft of creative space equipped with car access and a gated parking area. Features include:

Space: 1860 sq ft of creative space
Height: 16 ft high ceiling
Special Feature: 6×6 ft Neon Cube and a ceiling mounted projector
Convenience: Car access and gated parking area to ensure safety of your vehicle during the shoot
Parking: On-site gated parking for 2 cars plus additional parking lot spaces

Yukon 5: The RGB Cave Experience

Studio Yukon 5 has the atmosphere of the Batcave Garage from “The Dark Knight” movie and features an RGB ceiling that can change colors and color schemes. This unique space offers:

Specialty: RGB ceiling that can change colors and color schemes, creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere perfect for car photography
Access: Separate gated entrance allowing for easy car access
Atmosphere: Perfect for creating dramatic, cinematic car photography with customizable lighting
Parking: On-site parking available

Photographed by @dmitrybocharov

Location Advantage: FD Photo Studio Yukon location (12828 Yukon Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250) is just a short 10-minute drive away from LAX airport and 5 minutes from the 405 freeway, making it easily accessible for both local and visiting photographers.

Top Outdoor Car Photography Locations in Los Angeles

Iconic City Views and Observatory Shots

Griffith Observatory

If you only stop at one place on this list the Griffith Observatory is a must, it has to be one of the most instagrammable places in LA. This location offers:

Views: Commands a view of the Los Angeles Basin including Downtown Los Angeles to the southeast, Hollywood to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest
Access: Parking can be tight at peak times and you may have to park a bit down the hill if the parking lot is full
Photography Rules: The Observatory allows photography for personal use inside and outside the building, including by a professional photographer for personal use

Source CRVN

Mulholland Drive and Scenic Overlooks

Mulholland Scenic Overlook captures the mystique of Hollywood and Los Angeles with Highway 101 leading the eye toward the skyscrapers of Downtown Los Angeles. This classic location provides:

Panoramic city views perfect for luxury vehicle photography
Iconic vista from one of the classic drives in Los Angeles
Views of iconic landmarks like the Hollywood sign and the Griffith Observatory

Coastal and Scenic Routes

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

For exotic cars and high-end brands, scenic locations like Pacific Coast Highway or Malibu Canyons create unmatched cinematic frames frequently used by famous car photographers for ad campaigns.

Source: @c.j.n.photography

Angeles Crest Highway

Perfect for mountain backdrop photography, offering winding roads and dramatic elevation changes ideal for dynamic car shots.

Source: MotoTrend

Urban and Architectural Backdrops

Downtown Arts District

Arts District in Downtown LA has lots of interesting graffiti, murals and paintings on sides of buildings that might be a cool urban environment.

Source: @jonathanschule

Elysian Park

Elysian Park which is north of Downtown LA has a few great spots to photograph, offering both urban and natural settings for diverse automotive photography styles.

Source: panda.cx5

Essential Permit Information for Car Photography

When You Need Permits

If you’re planning a commercial car photoshoot in public spaces, especially in parks, beaches, or iconic areas like Venice Beach or Downtown LA, you’ll likely need a permit from FilmLA. Key requirements include:

Commercial Photography: Commercial filming without permission is illegal in Los Angeles
Public Spaces: Places like Griffith Park, Elysian Park, or Angeles Crest Highway may require filming permits
Advance Planning: Always research and apply in advance, especially if you’re shooting for a brand or a dealership

Permit Costs and Processing

Still Photography: The application fee for still photography permit in Los Angeles is $104 per permit
Processing Time: 72-hour notice is required for all Film Permit requests
Student Rates: Film LA offers a lower rate for student filmmakers with permits starting at $25 for student projects

Why Choose FD Photo Studio for Car Photography

FD Photo Studio stands out in the competitive Los Angeles market by offering:

Specialized Car Access: Studios feature separate gated entrances allowing for easy car access
Professional Equipment: All studios include lighting, modifiers, and support equipment
Flexible Scheduling: 1hr minimum booking with competitive hourly rates
Multiple Locations: Studios in both downtown and Hawthorne areas
Unique Features: From RGB ceilings to rain effects, offering creative possibilities unavailable elsewhere
No Permits Required: Studio shoots don’t require FilmLA permits, unlike outdoor public locations

Conclusion

Los Angeles offers unparalleled opportunities for car photography, whether you prefer the controlled environment of professional studios or the dynamic backdrops of outdoor locations. Popular car photo studio setups like FD Photo Studio offer controlled environments with flexible backdrops and lighting, while the city’s diverse landscapes provide endless creative possibilities.

Remember to plan ahead, secure proper permits for commercial work, and take advantage of LA’s legendary golden hour lighting. With proper preparation and the right combination of studio and outdoor locations, your car photography in Los Angeles will capture the essence of automotive excellence against the backdrop of one of the world’s most photogenic cities.

Ready to rent studio space for your next car photography project?

Rent your own studio at FD Photo Studio:

1. Browse Available Studios: Visit our studio rental page to explore all 62+ locations

2. Check Equipment Lists: Review our comprehensive equipment offerings

3. Book Your Session: Use our 24/7 online booking system to secure your preferred date and time

4. Receive Your Check-In Code: Get your self-check-in code to access your studio seamlessly

Call us at +1 (323) 454-2323, or email us at info@fdphotostudio.com. We also have a live support chat on our website where you can get directions, request help, or ask questions.

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Kokodaw EYEAMshooter Photography

My first time here and had a ball. Great experience. Beautiful view! Perfect natural lighting and had use of equipment. Great ...

Steven Pressler Website

Really enjoy using the new studios. Great natural light and the studio is well equipped with everything I would need to shoot f...

David DavidXPhotography

Used FD Studios for first time- great experience. I forgot my triggers- no problem, I was able to borrow some. Alex was a cool g...

Petr Green Volga Verdi

Used FD multiple times for photo shoots for Volga Verdi clothing line – the results are amazing! Great rates, convenient locatio...

Yuriy LightWriter.org

I love FD studio. This place is like a home to me :). I use this studio a lot to shoot portraits, engagements, fashion and artwor...

Julia Shema CreativeSwirls

We did shooting of our products at FDPhotostudio. Reasonable price, great service and convenient location compare to other places...

Maryna Rybalka MarinaRybalka.com

This was my first experience of working in a professional photo studio. To tell you the truth, I didn’t quite know how to set th...

Steven Pressler

First time using the studio and I must say the experience was terrific. Alex was great to work with and could not be any nicer. Th...

Anonym

Toba was fantastic to deal with throughout. From our first call to the point when we had wrapped out - she was great. Thank you...

Anonym

The lady at the front desk helped me with setting up the light. I had a few questions and was humble in response. Definitely comin...

Anonym

Great staff, easy to work with and very helpful.

Anonym

Just great location and very chill!

Mj L. Glendale, CA

I actually haven't rented studio space here yet, but I felt like I should write a review based on the customer service I've experi...

Steven A. Studio City, CA

I have been using FD Photo Studio for the past 6 months and the experience has been nothing short of excellent. The studios are cl...

Product D. Los Angeles, CA

Great place!

Ilia K. Los Angeles, CA

It's BEST place to implement any ideas for photo and video shooting. The location inspires to create unique work. Thank you guys f...

Lana K. Los Angeles, CA

I had a superb experience with FD Photostudio. I had no problems reserving the studio, confirming it and shooting there! The staff...

Lida K. Glendale, CA

Having shot at FD Photo Studio for about 5 times, I can't help but say that this place is a gem in the middle of LA. It is really ...

Andrey K. Los Angeles, CA

The best studio in town no doubt, lots of space plus latest equipment, strongly recommend!

Alex B. Los Angeles, CA

Great place! Been there for a few times and will definitely shoot more up there!

Guys who work there are cool and the ...

Marla D. Long Beach, CA

Update, I posted some snap shots of studio C. Seriously quick snap shots but you get the idea! I would love to keep the studio as...

Marla D. Long Beach, CA

I shot here a few times and have been happy each time. The staff have been more than helpful and accommodating. Parking is easy...

Hunter J. El Segundo, CA

Shot at FD Photo Studio last week and it was a pleasure shooting there. They have a full bathroom with shower for models, alien...

Mrs G. Los Angeles, CA

This is a straight-forward studio, and works great as that. The space is very customizable. I have shot in Studio B, and am ren...

Kendall G. Redondo Beach, Los Angeles, CA

This studio is so dope! Great natural lighting and really cool space. They have good portions where to get ready for hair and m...

Carlo P. Los Angeles, CA

Stage A has great natural light and the all white paint makes for nice high key indoor window light shots. Great for quick small-s...

Serg I. Lakeside, CA

Awesome place and very good rates. Alex is always helpful . That's my first time at the new location and it's just perfect, lar...

Kris R. Los Angeles, CA

I love this place! Such an inspiring and versatile studio! Great atmosphere and amazing people working there! So friendly and h...

Yulia Los Angeles, CA

I've shot at FD Photo Studio several times. The place is huge with 3 different spacious studios. I've honestly had the best exper...

Gerardo M. Orange, CA

After seven months of doing nothing I decided to do some review of what I learned in lighting and rented the studio for a while. V...

Mo H. Los Angeles, CA

Great place. the set up, the rooftop access is a wonderful plus and the rates are great.

Anonym

Everyone was so nice working there. The płace was fantastic and price was amazing. Very happy

Anonym

Such a great studio to shoot , Studio A is really amazing with large windows to allow in natural sun light, and enough room for...

Frank Ross FrankRossPhotography.com

Love the natural lighting. Great place to shoot. Nice friendly staff.

Chad Hill ChadHillPhoto.com

LOVE this studio! SHOOT HERE!! I ll be in to shoot tomorrow for the 2nd time this week. Grateful!

Anonym

It was great. Wish we booked more time. Definitely coming back!

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Very friendly! Love this studio.

Peter Green on Google+

Used the studio multiple times for various projects, mostly for my product photography. They have the mannequins, steamer and a...

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Gorgeous space, and another WINNER WINNER headshot session! I really love bringing clients to your space

Anonym

The staff was great. Super friendly and helpful. The space is also perfect, with plenty of natural light.

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Wonderful customer service... Always a pleasure shooting there. No issues except I wish that
someone would be available ...

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I shot here for the very first time yesterday. Great location, great light, great studio!!! Everything you need is there. Th...

Christopher Barber

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Gen Levy Gen Levy Photography

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We recently shot our Fall 15 Product Look Book and could not be happier or more pleased with our overall experience at FD Photo St...

David Waters MojoCinematic

Thanks for a great video shoot. The staff was always there and very helpful. We will be booking FD Studios again soon, THANKS!!

Glen Gante Mister G Photography

Great studio spaces and value! I chose FD Photo Studios for my shoots on my recent trip to LA from Sydney Australia. Pro Studio I...

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Our first experience with FD Studio was pretty amazing. From the helpful, really nice staff to the space itself, for the price is ...

Erick Robinson Erick Robinson Photography

Amazing space, very helpful staff. I will always continue to bring business to this studio.

Jenna Fox Real Fiction

I am the manager of a rock band in SoCal called Real Fiction. We were in need of a location to film their music video on a tight b...

Lorenzo lorenzobelmontephotos

Love the atmosphere. Great natural lighting...plus the rates are very reasonable. A+++ all around. I will be shooting there again.

Gia Unera GUD Apparel

Love this awesome studio Art 3! Will be back for more photoshoot for my next season designs for Summer 2017. Thanks FD Studio!

Ali LeRoi

I love shooting at FD. The staff is great and the booking system is seamless and efficient. Great space and great light if you ant...

MarcM

Anytime I"m visiting LA, FD is always my go to. Great studio space, easy to access and friendly staff.

Mark W. Whitaker Foto

Great place I just shot at Hill St. Studio 2 today and lots of Natural light plus 3 Alien Bee Strobes. Really clean and super clos...

Christian

I love FD studio because of their staff and of course their bright natural lighting. I also love the wooden background for art 1 a...

Eric B. Social Finger Imagery

I love shooting on several of the stages this studio has to offer. The staff all have outstanding personalities and are very helpf...

Mua Sherry O Make up Artist

This was an amazing collaboration with lovely models and great photographers. I worked with this Model creating a look that compli...

Erin Marie Miller

This is my go-to studio when I shoot. I absolutely love the gorgeous sets, the lighting equipment is always in great shape and rel...

Dez

Awesome place! The location we filmed at worked perfectly. Victor was a blast. Super helpful and friendly. I will definitely book ...

Rachel Taylor Jewel Badgley Mischka

We had a great experience LOVED shooting there!! Staff was fantastic as was the location. Ease of use and exactly what was pictu...

James Wilson JRW Photography

I've used FD Studios Several times & every time I go, I'm always leaving satisfied. Keep up with the amazing stages! I hear you ma...

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FD Photo Studio: Professional Car Photo Studios for Rent in Los Angeles

Olympic 3: The Professional’s Choice

Yukon 1: Versatile Corner Cyc Studio

Yukon 4: Large Production Studio

Yukon 5: The RGB Cave Experience

Top Outdoor Car Photography Locations in Los Angeles

Iconic City Views and Observatory Shots

Griffith Observatory

Mulholland Drive and Scenic Overlooks

Coastal and Scenic Routes

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

Angeles Crest Highway

Urban and Architectural Backdrops

Downtown Arts District

Elysian Park

Essential Permit Information for Car Photography

When You Need Permits

Permit Costs and Processing

Why Choose FD Photo Studio for Car Photography

Conclusion

Rent your own studio at FD Photo Studio:

Find a Photo Studio near you

L.A. Studios

N.Y.C Studios

Rent Studio

Clients Review

Events

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