How To Photograph Small Bathrooms For Real Estate Listings
Unlike spacious living areas or bedrooms, bathrooms often offer limited space to work with, especially when they’re really small powder rooms that need to be photographed.
In this article I’ll discuss how to photograph small bathrooms for real estate listings by sharing a few tips and tricks.
Table of Contents
Always Use A Wide Angle Lens
While it’s important to use a wide angle lens for most real estate photography situations, it’s especially important for small bathrooms.
It allows you to capture a broader view of the space, making the bathroom appear larger and more open. A lens with a focal length between 14mm and 16mm is typically ideal for full-frame cameras.
While wide angles can capture more of the room, be careful of the distortion they can cause, especially at the edges of the frame. Excessive distortion can make straight lines appear curved and misrepresent the space, which can be misleading in real estate photography.
Check out our list of The Best Lenses for Real Estate Photography to see some of the best wide angle lenses on the market today.
Position Your Camera Above the Toilet
Positioning the camera just above the toilet level can be an effective way to capture as much of the bathroom as possible while minimizing the visual prominence of the toilet. This angle can provide a more comprehensive view of the space, including features like the vanity, shower, and bath.
When shooting from this angle, balance the composition by including elements like mirrors, windows, or artwork to add interest and depth to the photo. Ensure the toilet is not the focal point of the image.
Photographing From Outside the Bathroom
Shooting from outside the bathroom, including the hallway or doorway, can give context to the space and its relation to the rest of the house. This technique can also help to show the bathroom’s entrance and layout more clearly.
Use the door frame as a natural border for your photo. This can add depth to the image and make the bathroom appear more inviting. It’s a technique that can also subtly suggest the viewer is stepping into the space.
Position Your Camera In The Doorway
Positioning your camera in the doorway can be particularly effective for focusing on specific areas like the sink and vanity. Even if the photo includes a significant portion of the wall, this approach can showcase important details like the quality of fixtures and finishes.
The inclusion of blank wall space can actually benefit the composition, offering a sense of openness and making the room appear less cramped. This approach requires a careful balance to avoid making the space feel bare or unfinished.
Detail Shots and Staging
Don’t overlook the power of detail shots in a small bathroom. Focus on unique or high-end elements like custom tiles, modern faucets, or elegant light fixtures. These details can add a sense of luxury and thoughtfulness to the space.
Simple staging can greatly enhance the appeal of a small bathroom. Consider adding fresh towels, a plant, or artfully arranged toiletries. These touches can make the bathroom feel lived-in and cared for.
Ethical Considerations
While these techniques aim to present the bathroom in the best possible light, it’s crucial to maintain a realistic representation. Avoid making the space appear significantly larger or more luxurious than it actually is.
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.
