When couples start looking for Toronto photo studios or a modern intimate wedding venue in Toronto, Archive Studios often comes up, and for good reason. It’s one of those rare spaces that feels elevated without feeling overwhelming, and structured without feeling restrictive.
Whether you’re planning a small wedding, an engagement session, or an intimate celebration, Archive Studios offers flexibility, character, and a setting that photographs beautifully without needing much added décor.
Where Is Archive Studios Located in Toronto?
Old Town Toronto location and neighbourhood feel
Archive Studios is located in Old Town Toronto, an area known for its mix of historic character and modern energy. It’s central, easy to access, and feels distinctly “Toronto” without being overly busy or tourist-heavy.
Address, building access, and first impressions
Address: 411 Richmond Street East
Ground-floor studio with a clean, minimal entrance
Instructions for access are shared ahead of time, making arrivals smooth and predictable
The building itself is understated, which makes the studio feel like a quiet surprise once you step inside.
Nearby streets, parking, and ease for guests and vendors
Paid street parking along Richmond
Easy access for vendors arriving with equipment
For couples hosting intimate weddings in Toronto, this location strikes a good balance between convenience and atmosphere.
Natural Light, Windows & Overall Lighting at Archive Studios
Lighting is one of the biggest reasons Archive is often mentioned among top studio photo Toronto options.
Direction of natural light and best times of day
Western-facing windows provide warm afternoon light
North-facing windows add consistent, soft fill light
Ideal for mid-day to late-afternoon sessions
Window coverage, draping, and light control
Adjustable blinds and floor-to-ceiling draping
Easy to soften or shape light depending on the look you want
Works well for both photography and video
When additional lighting is helpful vs unnecessary
Natural light alone works beautifully for most sessions
Supplemental lighting can help on overcast days or for evening shoots
No built-in lighting, but external lighting is permitted
This flexibility is why Archive is popular among Toronto photo studios used for both portraits and editorial-style shoots.
Studio I vs Studio II at Archive Studios
Understanding the difference between Studio I and the combined space is key when deciding how to use the studio.
Studio I — size, layout, and best uses
Approx. 1,000 square feet
Five western-facing windows
Triple arch feature wall
Textured, earth-toned lime-wash walls
Best for:
Portraits
Smaller shoots (up to 12 people including vendors)
Studio II / Full Studio — expanded space and added features
When Studio I and II are opened together:
Approx. 1,556 square feet
Additional north-facing windows with stained glass trim
Multiple lounges and shooting zones
Modern faux fireplace
Capacity for:
Larger shoots (up to 16 people)
Events with up to 30 when fully booked
Booking the full studio vs individual studios
Individual studio bookings work well for focused photo sessions
Full studio bookings are better for:
Intimate weddings in Toronto
Seated dinners
Standing celebrations and mingling-style events
Interior Design, Decor & Architectural Features
Archive Studios doesn’t rely on trends — the design is intentional and timeless.
Triple arch feature wall and textured finishes
Signature arched wall acts as a natural focal point
Adds depth without overpowering photos
Works well for ceremonies, portraits, and detail shots
Floors, colour palette, and overall tone
Light oak hardwood floors
Neutral, earthy tones throughout
Clean enough for modern styling, warm enough for romantic moments
Furniture, lounges, and styling flexibility
Multiple lounge setups included
Furniture cannot be moved between studios
Easy to style minimally or layer in florals and personal touches
For couples planning a small wedding or elopement, the space doesn’t need much added décor to feel complete — which helps keep things budget friendly.
Hosting Intimate Weddings & Small Events at Archive Studios
Guest capacity for seated vs standing events
Up to 50 guests for seated receptions
Up to 75 guests for standing celebrations
Events are booked directly with the studio team
Types of celebrations that work best
Archive Studios is well suited for:
Intimate weddings
Elopements
Engagement parties
Bridal showers
Private dinners
Small company gatherings
Event flow, layout options, and atmosphere
The connected studio layout allows for:
Ceremony → mingling → dinner flow
Clear separation of moments without moving locations
A calm, unrushed experience for guests
This is why many couples see Archive as a strong intimate wedding venue in Toronto.
Hourly photo rates and minimums
Photo sessions: $100/hr + HST
Photo bookings run 8am–8pm
Weekend bookings require a 3-hour minimum
Capacity limits for shoots
Studio I or II: max 16 people including vendors
Full studio: up to 30
Vendors count toward capacity
Weekend and seasonal notes
June–September Saturdays are primarily reserved for events
Larger bookings may be required during peak season
Full payment is due at booking
These clear rules make planning predictable — especially helpful for couples trying to stay budget friendly.
Practical Planning Notes Couples Should Know
Check-in process and arrival timing
Arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before your booking
Access instructions are emailed in advance
After-hours and weekend access is coordinated by staff
Makeup stations and amenities
Two makeup stations onsite (included with full studio booking)
Clothing racks and steamers available
Small prep kitchen available for events only
Accessibility and studio policies
Ground floor with ramp access available
No accessible bathroom onsite
Pets not permitted (except service animals)
Clean outdoor shoes allowed (shoe covers available in winter)
Is Archive Studios the Right Fit for Your Celebration?
Archive Studios is ideal if you:
Are planning intimate weddings in Toronto
Want a clean, modern studio photo Toronto look
Prefer a calm, intentional atmosphere
Value flexibility and natural light
Are hosting a small wedding or celebration
It may not be the best fit if:
You’re planning a large guest list
You need a fully inclusive, all-in-one venue
You want a highly traditional ballroom setting
If you’re considering Archive Studios for your engagement session, elopement, or intimate wedding venue in Toronto, having photo and video coverage that understands how to work with the space makes a big difference.
At Verity Weddings, we focus on:
Natural movement and real moments
Making the most of light and architectural details
Calm timelines that let the day unfold naturally
If Archive Studios is on your shortlist, we’d love to help you document it in a way that feels true to you — without rushing or over-directing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Weekend bookings require a minimum of three hours. Weekday bookings are more flexible, but all sessions must fall within the studio’s operating hours of 8 AM to 9 PM.
Yes, outside vendors are allowed. Just note that all vendors count toward the studio’s capacity limits, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
No. Pets are not permitted unless they are registered service animals. This policy is enforced by building management.
Soft music is allowed at a low volume. If your shoot or event requires audio recording or louder music, you’ll need to contact the studio in advance to confirm what’s permitted.
The studio is located on the ground floor with two steps at the main entrance. A delivery ramp off Ontario Street can be used for wheelchair access, but must be coordinated ahead of time. Please note: there is no fully accessible bathroom onsite.
A small foyer, which includes changing rooms, is available, but personal belongings cannot be stored there unless you’ve booked the full studio. For events, it’s best to plan storage intentionally.
Cancellations made 72 hours or more in advance receive a one-time credit valid for six months
Cancellations within 72 hours are non-refundable
Credits cannot be reused if the rescheduled booking is cancelled again
The arched feature wall, textured lime-washed walls, hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling draping are standout elements that photograph beautifully. These features create variety within a single location, making it easy to capture ceremony moments, portraits, and candid interactions without the space feeling repetitive.
In most cases, no. The natural light is more than sufficient for daytime events and ceremonies. For evening coverage or video segments, a professional photographer or videographer may bring subtle lighting to maintain consistency without changing the atmosphere of the space.
