You’ve put hours into sanding, painting, and styling your project but if the photos don’t capture its beauty, your hard work won’t shine online. Whether you’re posting to social media, sharing on your blog, or listing items in your shop, good photography makes all the difference. The good news? You don’t need fancy equipment or professional training. With a few simple tricks, you can photograph home decor like a pro.
1. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible
The best (and cheapest) lighting is the sun. Place your project near a window or photograph it outside in indirect light. Avoid harsh midday sun that creates strong shadows in the early morning or late afternoon light is softer and more flattering.
2. Declutter Your Background
Your decor piece should be the star of the photo. Clear away distractions like cords, clutter, or too many knickknacks. A simple wall, a farmhouse style backdrop, or even a clean wood table makes a great stage.
3. Play with Angles
Don’t just snap one straight on photo. Capture your piece from different perspectives a front view, side view, close up of details, and even a styled top-down shot. This gives viewers a full picture of your work and highlights special features like hardware, texture, or finishes.
4. Add Lifestyle Styling
Instead of photographing decor all by itself, style it as if it were already part of someone’s home. For example, add flowers in a vase, a stack of books on a side table, or a cozy throw draped over a chair. These little touches help people imagine the piece in their own home.
5. Keep Colors True
Make sure your photos reflect the actual colors of your project. Avoid filters that change the tones too much. If needed, adjust brightness or sharpness slightly, but keep it natural so buyers and readers know exactly what they’re seeing.
6. Invest in Small Photography Helpers
You don’t need professional gear, but a few budget-friendly tools make a big difference:
- A white foam board for bouncing light and reducing shadows.
- A phone tripod to keep shots steady.
- Simple editing apps like Snapseed or Canva to fine tune photos.
7. Consistency is Key
If you’re blogging or selling, consistent photo style matters. Use the same types of backgrounds, lighting, and editing so your brand looks cohesive. Over time, readers and shoppers will recognize your “look” right away.
Closing Thoughts
Great decor photography isn’t about expensive cameras, it’s about light, styling, and attention to detail. With practice and a few simple tweaks, you can capture your upcycled projects in a way that does them justice. Remember: every piece has a story, and your photos are what help tell it.
