Styling Decisions to Make Before Your Interior Photoshoot
One of the biggest decisions you'll make before an interior photography shoot isn't about the camera, the lighting, or even the location.
It's about the styling.
Before photography day, it's important to decide whether you'd like your space to feel polished and pristine, or relaxed and lived-in. Neither approach is right or wrong—the best choice depends on your brand, your audience, and the story you're trying to tell.
This is a conversation I always encourage clients to have before the shoot, as it influences every styling decision we make throughout the day. (and what styling props we bring to the shoot)
Daybreak - Airbnb Byron Hinterland
The Polished Look
A clean, refined, and carefully curated look is often ideal for architects, builders, developers, and interior designers wanting to showcase the design itself.
This approach focuses on clean lines, symmetry, and minimal distractions.
You might choose:
Beds neatly made with crisp, tucked-in linen
Bedside tables styled simply with a lamp, small vase, or artwork
Dining chairs perfectly aligned and tucked in
Bathrooms with neatly folded towels and carefully placed accessories
Kitchens styled with minimal objects, allowing cabinetry, finishes, and materials to take centre stage
The result is timeless, elegant photography that highlights the design details and craftsmanship of the space.
The Lived-In Look
A lived-in approach focuses more on storytelling and creating an emotional connection with the viewer.
Rather than feeling staged, the space feels as though someone has just stepped away for a moment and could return at any time.
You might choose:
Beds with casually folded linen or slightly rumpled sheets
An open book, reading glasses, or a glass of water on a bedside table
Chopping boards with fresh ingredients prepared in the kitchen
Tea towels draped naturally across a benchtop
Perfume bottles, skincare products, or cosmetics thoughtfully arranged in a bathroom
Dining settings with plates, glassware, and chairs pulled out as if guests are about to sit down
This style of photography helps viewers imagine themselves living, relaxing, entertaining, or holidaying in the space.
Different Spaces, Different Approaches
Not every room needs to follow the same styling philosophy.
Often, the strongest galleries combine both approaches.
For example:
A kitchen may be styled cleanly to showcase joinery and finishes.
A bedroom may include a book and soft linen to create warmth and comfort.
A dining space may feature a partially styled table setting to suggest connection and entertaining.
The goal is to create images that feel authentic while still showcasing the property at its very best.
Consider the Purpose of the Photography
Before making styling decisions, ask yourself:
Who is the target audience?
Where will the images be used?
What feeling do you want viewers to experience?
Are you selling a design, a lifestyle, an accommodation experience, or a product?
The answers to these questions will help determine whether a polished, editorial, lifestyle-focused, or hybrid approach is most appropriate.
Communication is Key
The most successful shoots happen when the client and photographer are aligned on the overall vision before photography day.
Sharing inspiration images, Pinterest boards, mood boards, or examples of previous projects can be incredibly helpful. These references allow everyone involved to understand the desired mood and ensure styling decisions support the final goal.
Great photography isn't just about documenting a space—it's about telling the right story.
By deciding on your styling direction before the shoot begins, you'll create images that not only look beautiful, but also connect with the people you want to reach.