Re setting up to photo in DMS
As mentioned, a backdrop is being worked on.
Short version:
That being said, generally if you have something you want to work on, personal project of whatever sort…you can just pick an empty room and have at it as long as doesn’t interfere with class. Also someone just using a piece of room like you intend, just ask and they probably won’t care
Longer bits:
Caveat being that classes have precedence. So it’s a good idea to check calendar and see if a class is scheduled that may overlap your plans. You’ll need to clear out or check with instructor if a class.
Dedicated classrooms, always check if might conflict with class. Don’t forget to allow for instructor setup time.
Some rooms (CA) you can be doing your thing in an area of the classroom where it won’t interfere. The class will have precedence on their intended area, but other parts of room, you can use if available. There are frequently folks having class in one part and random whatever in other half.
For dedicated rooms (ie purple, interactive, etc) I’ve taught classes before where I didn’t mind someone continuing to work quietly in a corner if it’s not distracting. I’ve done that quite a few times. For me, quiet photography in the corner would be fine. Partly depends on how much of the room the class will use. Others maybe not, so check.
On the flip side, I’ve taught classes where they were spread out on the table we needed for class. And sure, I’m not shy about asking them to relocate, and they did. But it took so long for them to gather up that it greatly impacted my setup time I had arrived early for, made me quietly frazzled trying to rush setup at that point (very unpleasant) and then start class a little late and feeling less prepared. I’ve had that happen at least twice and it’s really aggravating. Now I arrive earlier than I really need to (annoying but necessary) just in case I need to help someone move their stuff elsewhere so I can prep for my class in a non-rushed timeframe
My personal issue, dunno about it as a rule:
The other caveat that I doubt is relevant to you here, really strong smelling chemicals, please do out in the larger warehouse. There have been a couple of times I was there in the front area classroom working on something and had to pack up to leave because someone broke out chemicals in that front classrooms area that should have been back in the warehouse with much more space to dissipate and already a lot of stronger things there. That stuff travels and for chemical sensitive folks (me, certain things affect my breathing) it’s terrible. I have to just quietly pack up and leave.
Fwiw, I do go in the warehouse, but I’m prepared on any trip to not be able to stay depending on what’s happening. It’s cool. That stuff has to happen somewhere. But please not the front rooms. There’s space for that kind of thing out in the warehouse. (And since you’re new, there’s an overall rule about no spray cans, stuff like paint etc inside. Fire marshal thing.)