building a photo studio

I've decided to dedicate part of my workshop for a photo studio. The area is 12 feet wide, 16 feet deep, and 10 feet high.
My first question is what colour to paint the walls and ceiling? White? 18% Grey? Black? My intention is to use a variety of back drops, DIY versions of SabreStrip modifiers, and install as much ceiling lighting as is reasonable.
My second question relates to the principle subject matter: we breed Bernese Mountain Dogs. What colour backdrops would best highlight the natural tones of the dogs?

In my experience, you want your walls/ceiling to be neutral and if you have white, you can actually use those surfaces to bounce light when appropriate. I've always had white in my studios. Expect to paint it frequently, especially with Berners .

As for what colors work best with your dogs, they have similar color combination to my Rotties with the addition of white and I've found virtually all colors work with the Rotties. My favorite is black but I've used warm browns, blues, white of course, and even mauve and all have worked just fine. In general, Fall colors work well especially gold/brown combinations. Check out some of the major publications and see what combinations work best for Berners and then add those colors to your backdrop collection.

Good luck. Would love to see pics when you're done. Must be nice to have the room although I'd like at least 20 feet of length for multiple dogs.

Jim

Thank you for your insights. White it is. What is a little seasonal painting here and there? The whole floor is 24 feet long so I could pull back if needed. Mostly I am interested in providing images for new owners or of dogs and ribbons fresh from the ring. The other intended use is as a site to explore macro and stills.
Backdrops: I've planned on black, white and green chromakey. Ambient colours are the question no longer.
Again, thank you.