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If you’ve ever looked at a photo online and wondered why your shots never quite seem to be as good, we have your answer. Experienced and skilled photographers don’t just whip out their cameras and expect picture-perfect photos. A lot of work goes into taking beautiful pictures of a home, inside and out, and employing those techniques will improve photos of your home.
Photos of your home will look better with plenty of natural light, so pull aside the drapes and let the sunlight in. Natural light creates a soft, inviting atmosphere that artificial lighting often cannot replicate. If you lack natural light, turn on your artificial lighting to brighten the space. Avoid using the flash indoors as it can create harsh shadows and emphasise the darkness in the room. However, for exterior shots, using the flash can sometimes enhance the image by balancing the light, making your home appear more vibrant and welcoming.
Nothing ruins a photo faster than clutter. Before you start taking pictures, tidy up your space. Remove items that make your home look messy, such as clutter on shelves or trash on the floor. If you’re trying to sell, make the space look comfortable but not too personal. Remove family photos and other personal items to help potential buyers envision themselves in the space. Ensure that every corner of your home is spotless, as dirt and clutter can detract from the overall appeal of the photos.
Once the clutter is gone, your pictures might look a bit bland. Adding a touch of personality can make your photos more engaging. Including a family member or pet in the shot can add warmth and liveliness. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the full essence of a space, especially interiors. This lets you capture more of the room without stepping too far back. A wide-angle lens can help showcase the flow and layout of the space, giving viewers a better sense of its size and functionality.
Angles can make a significant difference in your photos. Consider what you want to highlight and find the best angle to showcase it. Sometimes, the best shot isn’t head-on. Getting up close and playing with angles can reveal textures and details that are otherwise unnoticed. Dust surfaces and use a lint roller on fabrics before shooting. If you struggle with composition, remember the rule of thirds: imagine your photo divided into nine equal parts with two horizontal and two vertical lines, and place the focal point at one of the intersections for a more balanced and interesting shot.
Plan your photo session, this includes ensuring good lighting, having the right equipment, and knowing which areas to focus on. Preparing your home by cleaning windows, cutting the lawn, and removing clutter can significantly enhance your photos. Store laundry baskets and excess kitchen appliances inside, and check that all light bulbs are working. Proper preparation can substantially impact the quality of your photos and ensure they capture your home’s best features.
Develop a timeline for your photo session, from preparation to the actual shoot. This will help keep the process organised and cover all essential areas. A clear plan will allow you to maximise your time and avoid missing crucial shots.
Think of ways to make your photos engaging. Show how spaces flow into each other and how they can be used. This helps potential buyers, Airbnb’ers, or viewers better understand the home’s layout and functionality. Incorporating furniture arrangements, decorative pieces, and natural elements can add depth and interest to your photos.
After taking your photos, review them to see what works and what doesn’t. Make notes of areas for improvement for future shoots. Evaluating your work helps you learn and improve your photography skills over time.
Choose the Right Spot A great photo keeps the viewer engaged by guiding their eye around the image. To add visual interest, utilise architectural details like beautiful moulding, intriguing doors, and other unique elements in the room.
Let Light Guide You Good lighting enhances the mood and reinforces the vibe of a space. Ambridge suggests turning off all lamps and overhead lights to let natural light flow in. Consider the time of day and how light travels through the room, as waiting even half an hour can significantly change the quality of light.
Find a Point of View Focus on details that make the room exciting and tell a story. Unique elements such as art or a distinctive piece of furniture can engage viewers and convey the space’s personality.
Mind Your Angles While getting creative with shooting angles might be tempting, straightforward shots that allow the space to shine without distractions. Keeping the camera straight and level is crucial for professional-looking photos.
Less is More When in doubt, simplify. Remove cords, mail, and other visual clutter to maintain the space’s authenticity while capturing an idealised version.
Before taking any photos, conduct a pre-shoot walkthrough. This involves identifying the best angles and features to highlight in your home. Discussing the shoot plan ensures satisfaction with the camera angles and positions. Establishing a logical order for shooting each room can help manage objects and boxes that need to be moved. A pre-shoot walkthrough allows you to identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments before the shoot.
Using professional equipment can make a significant difference. A sturdy tripod ensures steady shots, and a bubble level ensures your camera is perfectly horizontal. Multiple flash units help balance lighting in different rooms, allowing you to keep doors open and show how spaces connect. During post-production, tools like Photoshop can further enhance your images. A slow shutter speed can let more light into the camera, but ensure you use a tripod to prevent blurred images.
The key to a great shoot is preparation; the more you prepare your home, the better your photos will look. While a freshly painted or newly decorated home can produce the best results, minor preparations can significantly impact it. Outside, clean windows cut the lawn, and clear away garden clutter. Ensure everything is clean, tidy, and free of excess items. A pre-shoot walkthrough with your photographer can identify the best angles and features to highlight, ensuring a successful photo session.