Setting the Stage: An Interior Designer's Guide to Prepping for Photography

I often get asked what should i do to prepare for a days shoot. Today, I want to specifically address my fellow creative collaborators – the interior designers who breathe life into rooms and crave stunning visuals to showcase their work.

Lighting: The Foundation of a Stellar Shoot

Lighting is the magic dust that transforms a space from ordinary to extraordinary in photography. Here's how to prime your project for photographic success:

• Embrace Natural Light: Natural light is a photographer's best friend, to start with IMO. Maximize it! Open blinds, pull back curtains, and schedule the shoot during the day when the light is most flattering (usually mornings or late afternoons). Communicate your preferred time of day with the photographer beforehand. But I alwasy have a ton of lighting to magically turn night into day, but this takes more time fyi.
• Declutter Obstructions: Sometimes, beautiful light gets blocked by furniture or decorative pieces. Take a critical eye to the space and temporarily remove anything that might cast unwanted shadows or obscure key design elements. This includes lamps and plants that might be strategically placed for aesthetics but could block light flow.- I also work with a live view on my laptop so we both can see what the camera see's and adjust it as we go.
• Identify Focal Points: Discuss with the photographer which areas of the room are the design stars. This helps the photographer position lighting for maximum impact. Is it the stunning fireplace with its intricate detail? Or the statement wall showcasing a vibrant wallpaper? Highlighting these areas ensures they take center stage in the final photographs.
• Pre-light the Space (Optional): If you have some experience with lighting, consider pre-lighting the room with strategically placed lamps to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Table lamps, floor lamps, and strategically placed accent lights can add depth and dimension, especially during evenings or in rooms with limited natural light. Communicate your lighting setup to the photographer so they can adjust accordingly. This is a great starting point and i can always add my own extra natural looking lighting where needed to create that just perfect shot. 

Staging for Impact:

Beyond lighting, a little pre-shoot prep can elevate your design even further:

• Declutter and Depersonalize: While personality adds charm in everyday living, it can be distracting in photographs. Remove personal items like family photos, mail, or clutter on tables. Streamline surfaces, leaving only key design elements that showcase your style.
• Accessorize Wisely: Less is often more when it comes to accessories. Opt for a few statement pieces that complement your design theme rather than overwhelming the space. We are featuring the space not the tchotchkes. 
• Think in Threes: Our eyes naturally gravitate towards groupings of three. Arrange decorative objects, books, or plants in trios to create visual interest and a sense of balance.
• Freshen Up Textiles: Ensure throw pillows and cushions look fresh and wrinkle-free. Consider plumping them up for a more inviting appearance. Replace any visibly worn or stained textiles. Also remember with photoshop i can pretty much fix anything in post we cant on set.
• Cleanliness is Key: A sparkling clean space translates beautifully in photos. Ensure all surfaces are dust-free, fingerprints are wiped away, and mirrors and glass items are clear.

Collaboration is Key

Remember, a successful photoshoot is a team effort. Communication with the photographer is crucial. Discuss your vision for the shoot, the specific design elements you want highlighted, and any special requests you might have.

I also prefer to do a quick walk through and shoot hand held angels of each room, shot then we go through them on the laptop to see what we are getting and our starting points. this helps structure the day and create our shot list.

Bonus Idea: Consider offering the photographer a tour of the space (in person to scout, shoot a video or photos , even with your phone) before the shoot. This allows them to visualize lighting possibilities and plan their approach beforehand, ensuring a smooth and efficient shoot day.

By following these tips, you can transform your design project into a visually captivating portfolio piece. Let's work together to capture the essence of your stunning creations!