Today, interior photography is in very high demand. Even if the wishes of a real estate agent and an interior designer differ, they both want great selling shots. At first, photographing architecture and interiors seems quite a challenge, especially for beginners in this field. However, over time, you add to your arsenal as a photographer and begin to take stunning shots. Don’t forget that a lot also depends on proper processing, and you don’t have to use software from Adobe. If you want to find the best free Photoshop alternative right now, we recommend further exploring an article on Skylum’s blog.
Right now, we’re going to figure out how to improve your interior photography skills and take better, more sellable photos. Take a closer look at each point. You may have heard some of the tips before, but just haven’t paid attention to them or haven’t put them into practice.
Pay attention to your equipment
First and foremost, get the right equipment, including lenses, a tripod, and lighting. Without this, it will be impossible to take good selling pictures, no matter how hard you try. You may have to invest a little in equipment at first. If your budget is limited, you can always start with an inexpensive option and gradually save up for your dream. We provide the following recommendations on the choice:
- Wide angle lens, detail lens, and DSLR. You can get the most flexibility when shooting interiors with the 16-35mm/f2.8. Be sure to test the lens before you buy, because sharpness and distortion at the edges of the picture are very different from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each room needs to be looked at separately, so sometimes you have to get fancy.
- Strobe lights or flash. Of course, it’s best to choose the first option. Budget constraints mean that you will have to work with a flash much more often. Ideally, you should have at least one and a set of special wireless triggers (they give you the wonderful ability to move your flash anywhere you want. Also, consider a softbox to diffuse the light. Always remember that light can be corrected in image editors, even in free Photoshop alternatives.
- A good, high-quality tripod. This is a must for a wide shot. Keep in mind that a reliable and stable tripod will cost money. If you are just starting and trying your hand at interior photography, a primary option will be enough. Photographing details is done without a tripod, with your hands, because you often have to take awkward angles in tight corners.
As for lenses, in time you will find that there is an optimal combination of good artistic composition and a little distortion. Keep in mind that you will have to squeeze into corners and work in small spaces very often if you are constantly photographing real estate. As a rule, interior photographers are more likely to choose the “Nifty Fifty”.
Find the most appropriate lighting
Never be afraid to take multiple photos to find the most appropriate lighting scheme. The light intensity can change instantly, so remember to adjust your camera settings as needed. Make the most of natural light, and use a flash or strobe light to help fill in shadows and illuminate corners that are too shaded. On a sunny day, use half the flash power. If the natural light is not too bright, combine a slower shutter speed and 1/16th power.
Use the flash only as needed to fill in the shadows without overpowering them. Aim it at the wall behind you or the ceiling to gently diffuse the light. You can always correct some flaws with today’s photo editors. For example, Luminar Neo works on AI base and helps to create realistic three-dimensional lighting in photos.
In just a few clicks, you get the same effect as if you had spent an hour editing with Lightroom or Photoshop tools.
Work on composition
If you’re working on interior photography or real estate photography, your main goal is a virtual, realistic tour of the property. Don’t hesitate to ask the customer before you take the shot what kind of shots they want.
Are you taking a typical wide shot of a room? Make sure you choose an interesting and at the same time uncluttered angle (as a rule it will be the windows, the view of the next room, or the rest area). If you need to accentuate a painting or other work of art, then photograph the wall directly to create balance and perfect symmetry. Be sure to pay attention to what’s in the background and middle ground. Play around with a few options so that you have choices during image editing. Fill the space with small details and vignettes, so that the shot is of maximum interest to the viewer.
Regardless of the composition, you should always keep your camera perfectly straight. This way you can avoid additional distortion and long processing in photo editors. Choose the best program for you in advance. To avoid paying for an expensive subscription, look at the free Photoshop alternatives (this can be any good image editor with AI-based features). When photographing small details, it’s best to choose a shallow depth of field and focus on color and textures.
Define your style in photo editing
Save the editing options you use most often as presets. That way you can apply many settings at once and make only minor changes. Overlaying multiple images with a mask can be done in Luminar Neo. With practice, all these processes will become much easier and faster. The main thing is to develop your handwriting and choose the most user-friendly editor by the interface. As you have already realized, it doesn’t have to be expensive software from Adobe. Find a free Photoshop alternative in the article on the official Skylum website right now.
- Sagittarius Man & Gemini Woman Love and Sex Compatibility - January 31, 2024
- Taurus Ascendant Rising Personality Traits in Men (Guide) - January 31, 2024
- How to Seduce and Attract a Sagittarius Man (Seduction Tips) - January 31, 2024