A How To Guide For Real Estate Photography In Small Spaces
Photographing small spaces poses unique challenges for real estate photographers. The goal is to make the area look as spacious and inviting as possible while accurately representing its dimensions.
In this article I’ll share a how to guide for real estate photography in small spaces that’s sure to help you out.
Table of Contents
The Right Lens Is Important
A wide-angle lens is absolutely essential for small space photography and real estate photography in general. It captures a broader view, making rooms appear larger than they are.
However, it’s crucial to avoid going too wide with ultra-wide or fisheye lenses, which can distort the room’s proportions and mislead potential buyers.
If you’re looking for a great lens for small spaces, check out our article Best Lenses for Real Estate Photography. Any lens between with 14mm to 16mm will be wide enough to show of even the smallest of rooms.
Use Strategic Camera Placements
Camera placement can be just as important as using the correct equipment. It’s not always the case that you’ll get the best image from inside the room itself, especially if it’s really small. Consider unique places you can fit your tripod and camera which can help show more of the room.
Backing into Corners:
Expanding the View: Positioning your camera in the corner of a room can maximize the space in your frame. This technique allows you to capture as much of the room as possible, giving a comprehensive view of the space.
Height Considerations: Ensure the camera is at an appropriate height, usually around four to five feet, to maintain a natural perspective. Too high or low can distort the room’s perceived proportions and space.
Doorway Shots:
Using a Door Frame as a Natural Border: Taking photos from the doorway allows you to use the door frame as a natural border, creating a sense of depth and leading the viewer’s eye into the room.
Avoiding Narrowness: Be mindful of not cropping out too much of the room with the door frame; adjust your position forward or back to capture the right balance of space and framing.
Closet Technique:
Innovative Angles from Inside a Closet: For bedrooms and offices, opening closet doors and shooting from within the closet can provide a few extra precious inches of space, allowing for a better representation of the room.
Decluttering Is Always A Good Idea
Nothing will make a small room look even smaller than if it’s filled with clutter.
Simplify the Scene:
Declutter: Remove unnecessary items and simplify the decor. Too much furniture or too many decorations can make a small space feel cluttered and even smaller.
Furniture Arrangement: Sometimes rearranging furniture can open up the space and create a more inviting and spacious feel. Always discuss changes with the homeowner or agent first.
Composition Techniques:
Leading Lines and Angles: Use the room’s natural lines, such as the edges of furniture or walls, to lead the viewer’s eye through the space. This technique can create a sense of depth and flow in the photo.
Vertical Lines: Emphasize any vertical lines or elements to draw the eye upward, making the ceilings appear higher and the room larger.
Additional Resources
If you’re just getting started in real estate photography, check out our Beginners Guide. It’s full of helpful articles and tips that will guide you in the right direction as you begin your real estate photography journey.
You can check out our Gear section as well to see reviews and recommendations on the latest real estate photography gear.
If you’re more interested in other resources that can help your real estate photography business, check out our Business Resources page.
