Tanika Blair 6/1/26 Tanika Blair 6/1/26

Why Professional Airbnb Photography Matters

When potential guests are browsing Airbnb, the very first thing they notice is your photography. Before they read your description, check your amenities, or compare prices, they're making a judgement based on your images.

In many cases, your photographs are the deciding factor between a guest clicking on your listing or scrolling past it.

Recognising the impact of imagery, Airbnb conducted extensive research into why some listings consistently outperformed others. What they discovered was simple: photography plays a huge role in booking decisions.

Properties with strong, professional imagery attracted significantly more attention and converted browsers into guests far more effectively than listings with poor-quality photos. In fact, Airbnb's early testing showed that bookings could increase by two to three times when professional photography was used.

Further internal studies found that listings featuring professional-level photography earned up to 40% more revenue than those without. The reason is straightforward—great photography helps your property stand out, creates a positive first impression, and builds trust with potential guests.

Professional photography also helps set accurate expectations. Keeping your listing images current and representative of the space ensures guests know exactly what to expect when they arrive, leading to better guest experiences, stronger reviews, and higher ratings.

In today's competitive short-term rental market, professional photography isn't simply an added extra—it's one of the most effective marketing tools available to Airbnb hosts.

The next time you're searching for accommodation online, ask yourself: what makes you choose one Airbnb over another? More often than not, it starts with the photos.

Tanika Blair 5/4/26 Tanika Blair 5/4/26

6 Reasons Why Interior Designers Should Invest in Professional Photography

As an interior designer, you've invested countless hours developing concepts, sourcing products, coordinating trades, managing budgets, and refining every detail of a project. Once the project is complete, professional photography is what preserves that work and allows it to continue generating value long after you've handed the keys back to your client.

Here are six reasons why professional interiors photography is one of the smartest investments you can make for your business.

Design Scout Interiors - A Coolangatta Project

Here are six reasons why professional interiors photography is one of the smartest investments you can make for your business.

1. Professional Photography Encourages Supplier Sharing

One of the biggest benefits of professional project photography is that it creates valuable content for everyone involved in the project.

Furniture suppliers, lighting companies, builders, joiners, stylists, artists, and product manufacturers are always looking for high-quality imagery to share across their websites and social media platforms. When your project is professionally photographed, suppliers are far more likely to repost and share the images, exposing your work to a wider audience and generating free brand awareness.

Every time your project is shared, your business reaches potential new clients and industry connections.

2. It Gives You a Competitive Edge

In a highly visual industry, first impressions matter.

Professional photography instantly elevates the perceived quality of your work and helps position your business as a premium service provider. Beautiful imagery communicates attention to detail, professionalism, and expertise before a potential client has even spoken to you.

When prospective clients are comparing designers online, strong photography can often be the difference between making an enquiry and moving on to the next website.

3. Consistent Photography Helps Build a Recognisable Brand

Choosing a photographer whose style aligns with your work and continuing that relationship over time creates consistency across your portfolio.

When all of your projects are photographed with a similar approach to composition, lighting, editing, and storytelling, your body of work becomes instantly recognisable. This consistency strengthens your brand identity and creates a polished, professional presence across your website, social media, awards submissions, and marketing materials.

The strongest design brands are often built on consistency, and photography plays a significant role in achieving that.

4. It's a Long-Term Investment in Your Business

Professional photography is not simply a cost—it's a long-term marketing asset.

If photographing every project isn't possible within your budget, focus on capturing your strongest and most portfolio-worthy projects. A small collection of exceptional projects photographed professionally will often do more for your business than a large collection of average images.

The right photographs can be used for years across websites, social media, publications, award submissions, advertising campaigns, and printed marketing materials.

5. Expert Post-Production Makes All the Difference

Capturing the photograph is only one part of the process.

Professional interiors photographers spend significant time in post-production carefully blending exposures, correcting colour, balancing lighting, refining details, and ensuring every image accurately represents the design. Interior spaces often contain challenging lighting conditions that require multiple exposures to be merged together to achieve a natural and polished final result.

Professional editing ensures your projects look their absolute best while still remaining true to the space you created.

6. You Get What You Pay For

Just as clients invest in an interior designer for their expertise, experience, and creative vision, the same principle applies when choosing a photographer.

A photographer who specialises in interiors understands composition, architectural lines, lighting, styling, and the nuances that make a space photograph beautifully. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper option, investing in a specialist often delivers significantly better results and a stronger return over time.

Professional photography helps build trust, enhances your online presence, strengthens your brand, and creates a lasting impression on future clients.

Your portfolio is often the first thing potential clients see. Make sure it represents your work at the level it deserves.

Tanika Blair 4/6/26 Tanika Blair 4/6/26

8 tips for prepping a property for a professional photo shoot.

A great photoshoot starts long before the photographer arrives.

While an experienced photographer can work wonders on the day, the best results are always achieved when the property is properly prepared beforehand. The more time spent styling, cleaning, and preparing ahead of the shoot, the more time we can spend focusing on creating beautiful imagery.

Here are our top tips for preparing your property before photography day.

Want to Know the Secret to a Smooth and Successful Photoshoot?

A great photoshoot starts long before the photographer arrives.

Here are our top tips for preparing your property before photography day.

Give the Property a Thorough Clean

Think of the preparation as similar to a bond clean.

Pay special attention to windows, mirrors, shower screens, pool fences, and any other glass surfaces. These areas can quickly show fingerprints, dust, water spots, and streaks, all of which become very noticeable in high-resolution photography.

A spotless property instantly elevates the final images.

2. Make Sure the Garden is Looking Its Best

First impressions matter, and exterior photographs are often some of the most important images from a shoot.

Mow the lawn, trim hedges, tidy garden beds, remove weeds, and make sure outdoor furniture is clean and ready to be photographed. A well-maintained garden helps frame the home beautifully and creates a welcoming feel.

3. Clear Leaves and Debris

Take the time to sweep paths, decks, patios, driveways, balconies, and pool surrounds.

Small details such as leaves, sticks, or garden debris can become surprisingly noticeable in photographs and often require additional editing later.

4. Prepare Any Special Features

If you'd like features such as a fireplace, outdoor fire pit, candles, or feature lighting included in the photography, make sure everything is ready to go before the shoot begins.

Having firewood, matches, lighters, candles, batteries, or remote controls easily accessible allows us to quickly incorporate these elements when the timing and lighting are right.

5. Style the Bedrooms in Advance

Freshly laundered and ironed bedding can make a huge difference to the finished photographs.

Before the shoot, think about the overall look you'd like to achieve. Do you prefer a perfectly styled and polished bed, or something that feels softer and more lived-in? Having these decisions made ahead of time helps the day run much more efficiently.

6. Be Flexible with the Weather

Natural light plays a significant role in architecture and interiors photography.

We closely monitor weather conditions in the lead-up to every shoot and will always advise if conditions aren't ideal. Sometimes postponing by a day or two can make a dramatic difference to the final images.

Flexibility with scheduling often results in significantly better photography.

7. Communicate Your Must-Have Shots

Before every shoot, I create a detailed shot list and plan the day around the property's layout, lighting conditions, and key features.

However, if there are specific spaces, design details, products, or compositions you'd particularly like captured, it's important to communicate this before the shoot day.

Whether it's a written list, a Pinterest board, screenshots, or a folder of iPhone photos, sharing your vision helps ensure we're all working towards the same outcome.

8. Preparation Creates Better Results

Of course, my assistant and I are more than happy to help with many of these tasks during the shoot. However, cleaning windows, sweeping leaves, ironing bedding, gathering styling items, and preparing spaces can be surprisingly time-consuming.

When these tasks are completed before we arrive, it allows us to dedicate our time and energy to what we do best—creating beautiful photographs that showcase your property at its absolute best.

The more prepared the property is, the more images we can capture, and the better the final gallery will be.

Tanika Blair 3/23/26 Tanika Blair 3/23/26

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)

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.

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)

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.

Tanika Blair 2/9/26 Tanika Blair 2/9/26

What Is the Difference Between an Interiors Photographer and a Real Estate Photographer?

One of the most common questions I hear from new clients is:

"What's the difference between an interiors photographer and a real estate photographer?"

While both photograph homes and interior spaces, the purpose behind the images is completely different.

Neither style is better or worse—they simply serve different goals. Understanding the difference will help you choose the right photographer for your project and ensure you get images that achieve the results you're looking for.

One of the most common questions I hear from new clients is:

"What's the difference between an interiors photographer and a real estate photographer?"

While both photograph homes and interior spaces, the purpose behind the images is completely different.

Real Estate Photography Is Designed to Sell a Property Quickly

The primary purpose of real estate photography is to generate enquiries and sell or lease a property as quickly as possible.

The images only need to be relevant for a short period of time before the property changes hands.

Because of this, real estate photographers typically work at a fast pace, photographing multiple properties per day and delivering images quickly.

Their focus is on:

Making rooms appear as large as possible
Showing the layout of the property
Highlighting key selling features
Capturing every room efficiently
Creating images that encourage inspections and enquiries

Wide-angle lenses are commonly used, and many compositions are photographed from the corners of rooms to maximise the sense of space.

Interiors Photography Is Designed to Showcase Design

An interiors photographer approaches a space very differently.

Rather than focusing on how large a room appears, the goal is to showcase the design, materials, furnishings, styling, craftsmanship, and atmosphere of the space.

The photography becomes a long-term marketing asset that may be used for years across websites, social media, magazines, award submissions, advertising campaigns, and publications.

The emphasis is placed on telling the story of the space and capturing the details that make it unique.

The Interior Is the Hero

One of the biggest differences is how each photographer treats the relationship between the interior and the view.

A real estate photographer will often prioritise showcasing a spectacular view because it helps sell the property.

An interiors photographer will usually prioritise the design of the room itself. The view is still important, but it becomes part of the story rather than the main focus.

The hero is the interior design.

Composition Is Everything

Real estate photographers often shoot from corners using very wide lenses to make spaces feel larger.

An interiors photographer is more likely to choose compositions that flatter the design.

This might mean:

Shooting straight-on to highlight symmetry
Focusing on furniture layouts
Showing the relationship between materials and finishes
Capturing carefully styled vignettes
Including foreground elements to create depth and mood

The goal is not to exaggerate the size of the room but to accurately and beautifully represent the design.

Interiors Photography Takes More Time

A real estate shoot may take less than an hour.

An interiors photography shoot can take an entire day—or sometimes several days—depending on the size of the project.

This is because every image is carefully considered.

Furniture may be adjusted, styling refined, lighting modified, and multiple compositions explored before the final photograph is captured.

The process is slower, more deliberate, and much more detail-focused.

Lighting Is Treated Differently

Real estate photography often prioritises speed and consistency.

Interiors photography prioritises atmosphere.

An interiors photographer pays close attention to how natural light moves through a space throughout the day and often plans the entire shoot around the best lighting conditions for each room.

Additional lighting may be introduced where required, and multiple exposures are often captured and blended together during post-production to create a polished final image.

Details Matter

For an interior designer, builder, architect, furniture brand, or accommodation provider, the details are often the most important part of the project.

Joinery details, material selections, lighting fixtures, furniture, artwork, styling, and craftsmanship all contribute to the overall design story.

An interiors photographer intentionally captures these details through close-up images and carefully considered compositions that would rarely be included in a standard real estate shoot.

Which Photographer Is Right for You?

If you're selling or leasing a property, a real estate photographer is usually the right choice.

If you're an interior designer, architect, builder, hotel, accommodation provider, furniture brand, or product supplier wanting to showcase your work and build your portfolio, an interiors photographer is likely the better fit.

At the end of the day, the difference comes down to purpose.

Real estate photography is designed to sell a property.

Interiors photography is designed to showcase design, build brands, and create lasting imagery that continues working for you long after the shoot is over.

Tanika Blair 1/5/26 Tanika Blair 1/5/26

Why I'm Not Scared AI Is Going to Take My Photography Job

Over the past few years, I've been asked the same question more times than I can count:

"Are you worried AI is going to replace photographers?"

My answer is always the same.

No.

Not because I think AI isn't impressive. It is.

Not because I think photography won't change. It already is.

But because after more than 13 years as a professional interiors, architecture, hospitality, and product photographer, I've realised that what clients hire me for goes far beyond simply pressing a shutter button.

Over the past few years, I've been asked the same question more times than I can count:

"Are you worried AI is going to replace photographers?"

My answer is always the same.

No.

Not because I think AI isn't impressive. It is.

Not because I think photography won't change. It already is.

AI Can Generate Images. It Can't Create Reality.

AI can create beautiful images of spaces that don't exist.

It can generate dream kitchens, luxury hotels, and perfectly styled living rooms in seconds.

But my clients aren't selling imaginary spaces.

They're selling real homes, real hotels, real products, and real businesses.

When an interior designer spends two years creating a home, when a hotel invests millions in a refurbishment, or when a furniture company launches a new collection, they need authentic photographs of the actual project.

No amount of AI can replace documenting something that exists in the real world.

Photography Is About Problem Solving

A large part of my job has very little to do with photography.

It's about solving problems.

It's arriving at a hotel and realising one room doesn't receive enough natural light.

It's moving furniture to improve a composition.

It's styling a bedside table.

It's waiting for the perfect light to hit a building facade.

It's figuring out how to make a tiny bathroom photograph beautifully.

Every project is different.

Every property is different.

Every client is different.

The ability to adapt, improvise, and make hundreds of creative decisions throughout a shoot is something AI simply can't replicate.

My Clients Aren't Paying for a Camera

If photography was simply about owning a camera, everyone would be a professional photographer.

My clients hire me because of my experience.

They hire me because I understand how to photograph interiors.

They hire me because I know how to style a room.

They hire me because I know when the light will be best.

They hire me because I understand marketing and what images are most likely to connect with their audience.

They hire me because I can walk into a space and immediately start seeing opportunities that others might miss.

Those skills have taken years to develop.

Human Connection Matters

One thing that often gets overlooked in conversations about AI is relationships.

Many of my clients have worked with me for years.

We know each other's businesses.

We understand each other's expectations.

We've developed trust.

A photoshoot is often a collaboration between the photographer, designer, architect, builder, hotel manager, marketing team, stylist, and property owner.

The best results come from communication, shared ideas, and creative collaboration.

People still want to work with people.

AI Will Become Another Tool

Do I think AI will change the industry?

Absolutely.

In fact, it already has.

I use AI myself in our editing process, it has improved our editing, and the final outcome of our photos ten fold.

Just as digital cameras replaced film, and Lightroom replaced darkrooms, AI will become another tool photographers use.

The photographers who embrace new technology will likely benefit from it.

The ones who ignore it may struggle.

But that's very different from being replaced by it.

The Value Is in Seeing

One of the things I love most about photography is that every photographer sees the world differently.

Give ten photographers the same room and you'll get ten completely different sets of images.

Why?

Because photography is not just technical.

It's creative.

It's instinctive.

It's personal.

It's knowing which angle tells the story best.

It's knowing when to simplify.

It's knowing what not to include.

It's understanding how a photograph should feel, not just how it should look.

That human perspective is what clients are really investing in.

So, Am I Worried?

Not really.

I think AI will continue to evolve at an incredible pace.

I think it will change the way photographers work.

I think it will automate certain tasks and create new opportunities.

But I don't believe it can replace experience, creativity, problem-solving, relationships, trust, or the ability to walk into a real space and capture it beautifully.

At the end of the day, my job isn't just taking photographs.

My job is helping people tell the story of something they've worked incredibly hard to create.

And I suspect there will always be value in that.

Tanika Blair 12/8/25 Tanika Blair 12/8/25

Hotel Photography: Your Most Frequently Asked Questions Answered

As a hotel photographer working with hospitality brands across Australia and internationally, I'm often asked the same questions by hotel owners, marketing teams and accommodation providers preparing for a photography shoot.

Professional photography is one of the most important investments a hotel can make. In many cases, your photography is the first impression a potential guest has of your property and can directly influence booking decisions.

To help you prepare for your next hotel photography project, I've answered some of the most common questions I receive from clients.

Why is professional hotel photography important?

Before a guest reads your room descriptions or compares your rates, they're looking at your images.

Professional photography helps showcase the quality of your property, creates an emotional connection with potential guests and builds trust in your brand. Strong imagery can increase engagement across booking platforms, websites and social media while helping your property stand out in a highly competitive market.

What makes hotel photography different from real estate photography?

While both involve photographing spaces, the goals are completely different.

Real estate photography is designed to document a property and communicate room size and layout. Hotel photography is designed to sell an experience.

Guests are not buying a building—they are buying a holiday, a business trip, a romantic getaway or a memorable experience. Great hotel photography captures atmosphere, lifestyle, service, comfort and the feeling of staying at the property.

How should we prepare our hotel for a photoshoot?

Preparation is one of the most important factors in achieving great results.

Before the shoot, I recommend ensuring all rooms and public spaces are thoroughly cleaned, maintenance issues are addressed, styling elements are in place and unnecessary signage or clutter is removed where possible.

I also work closely with clients beforehand to identify priority areas, understand marketing objectives and create a photography schedule that makes the most of the available light throughout the day.

What areas of a hotel should be photographed?

Every property is different, but most hotel photography shoots include:

Guest rooms and suites
Bathrooms
Reception and lobby areas
Restaurants, bars and cafés
Conference and event spaces
Pools and wellness facilities
Exterior building photography
Surrounding landscapes and local attractions
Lifestyle imagery of guests enjoying the property
Drone photography where appropriate

The final shot list depends on your property's unique selling points and intended use of the imagery.

Do we need drone photography?

In many cases, yes.

Drone photography and videography can provide valuable context by showcasing the property's location, surrounding landscape, proximity to attractions and overall scale.

For coastal resorts, rural retreats, golf resorts and larger properties, aerial imagery is often one of the most effective ways to communicate the guest experience.

What time of day is best for hotel photography?

Light plays a significant role in creating beautiful hotel imagery.

I typically plan photography around the direction of sunlight and the areas being photographed. Some spaces photograph best in the morning, while others benefit from afternoon or sunset light.

For larger properties, shoots are often carefully scheduled over one or more days to ensure each area is photographed under the most flattering conditions.

How long does a hotel photography shoot take?

The answer depends on the size of the property and the scope of the project.

A boutique hotel may be photographed in a single day, while larger resorts often require multiple days to capture accommodation, facilities, dining experiences, lifestyle content and drone photography.

I work with clients to create a detailed schedule before the shoot so expectations are clear and disruption to guests is minimised.

Should we include people in our hotel photography?

Absolutely.

While beautiful interior and architectural images are important, lifestyle imagery can help guests connect emotionally with a property.

Images featuring guests enjoying a meal, relaxing by the pool, checking into the hotel or using the facilities can bring a property to life and help potential guests imagine themselves there.

What should we look for when choosing a hotel photographer?

Experience within the hospitality industry is incredibly important.

Hotel photography requires a combination of architectural photography, interior photography, styling, lighting knowledge and hospitality marketing expertise.

When reviewing photographers, look beyond technical ability and ask yourself whether their images make you want to book the hotel. The best hotel photography doesn't simply show a space—it creates desire and tells a story.

Why do hotel brands choose Tanika Blair Photography?

With over 13 years of experience photographing interiors, architecture and hospitality spaces, I bring a unique perspective to hotel photography.

My background in Interior Design allows me to understand the details that matter most, while my experience working with leading hospitality brands, including Accor Hotels, has given me a strong understanding of how hotels market themselves and connect with potential guests.

My approach focuses on creating imagery that feels warm, inviting and authentic. Rather than producing photographs that feel like real estate images, I aim to capture the atmosphere, experience and personality that make each property unique.

Do you travel for hotel photography?

Yes.

While based in Northern New South Wales, I regularly travel throughout Australia and internationally for hotel photography projects. Recent assignments have taken me to New Zealand, Melbourne, Perth and North Queensland.

Ready to Update Your Hotel Photography?

Whether you're launching a new property, renovating guest rooms, refreshing your marketing materials or simply looking to elevate your brand, professional hotel photography can make a significant impact on how potential guests perceive your property.

If you're considering a hotel photography project and would like to discuss your property, I'd love to hear from you.

Tanika Blair 12/5/25 Tanika Blair 12/5/25

St Cami Home Renovation - Let the fun begin!

We’ve purchased a 100 yr old Church on an acre of land, we will be renovating into a 3 bedroom family home in 2026. We aren’t making any promises, but hopeing to document the journey, so if you’d like to come along for the ride, sign up to the mailing list.

Tanika Blair 4/10/24 Tanika Blair 4/10/24

Photographing our travels around Australia

Here’s a little peek into our unforgettable trip travelling just the 4 of us, with the kids at 4 and 6 yrs old. We were away for a total of 15 weeks. We were travelling along the coastline through NSW, went in land to Kosciusko National Park and Bright, and then back along to coastline through VIC and then over to Tasmania, continue along the coastline along the Great Ocean Road, and through a little of South Australia to Adelaide.

We have family in Dubbo, so topped in to see them for a week at Easter time on our way home.

It was the most amazing, beautiful experience for us all as a family, the kids were thriving and it was just what we all needed.

So many wonderful memories made. If you can do it with your family, while your kids still like hanging out with you, I would highly recommend it. It took a lot of work to get to that point, but my gosh I would do it again a million times over. It was so so worth it, in so many ways.

Because everyone asks, mine and Mitchs’ absolute favourite stops were.

1/ Kiama, NSW

2/ Kosciusko National Park

3/ Bright, VIC

4/ Wilsons Promontory, VIC

5/ Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park, TAS

6/ Lorne - Great Ocean Road, VIC

7/ And the kids loved their week in Melbourne, getting to do Scieneworks, the BBC Earth Experience, Legoland and Dinoland.

I’ve written more, and there are lots more photos and videos on my personal instagram here. You are welcome to check it out, and save stops to visit yourself.

We will continue to travel Australia over the coming years while the kids are at such a great age for it, please get in contact if you are interested in my photography work anywhere in Australia, I’d love to be booking more travelling and work around this beautiful country, and working with more creatives in different locations.

Newcastle, NSW - staying with friends

Blue Mountains, NSW - staying with family for Christmas

Kiama, NSW - staying with family

South Coast NSW - Huskisson, Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Narooma and Merimbula

Kosciuszko National Park

Bright, High Country VIC

Wilsons Promontory - Tidal River VIC

Melbourne, VIC

Torquay - Great Ocean Road, VIC

Cradle Mountain, TAS

Hobart and Bruny Island, TAS

Freycinet National Park, TAS (Wineglass Bay, Honeymoon Bay)

Bay of Fires, TAS

Anglesea - Great Ocean Road, VIC

Lorne - Great Ocean Road, VIC

Mount Gambier, SA

Adelaide, SA

Tanika Blair 12/13/23 Tanika Blair 12/13/23

Tanika's own home bathroom renovation.

My dream bathroom space, all thanks to a very very hard working man, my partner, Mitch Spackman.

He taught himself how to render, and we used Dulux’s Creativo, Microcement. 7 layers to create this rendered finish.

He’s a plumber, but we also did the demo ourselves, installed new walls and window … and did everything else but the following:

My dream bathroom space, all thanks to a very very hard working man, my partner, Mitch Spackman.

He taught himself how to render, and we used Dulux’s Creativo, Microcement. 7 layers to create this rendered finish.

He’s a plumber, but we also did the demo ourselves, installed new walls and window … and did everything else but the following:

We did get a tiler in, and painter to do the ceiling. And of course electrical, by Herriott Electrical.

We are so happy with the functionality of this space, for all 4 of us to easily be in this space together. We deliberated on having no bath, but we are so happy we stuck with it. The kids use the small hand held shower, while we use the overhead at the same time.

Shop this look

Mirror: Middle of Nowhere

Cabinet: Schots

Basin: ABI Interiors

Tapware: Tile Cloud

Tiles: Tile Cloud

Blue Side Table: Bonnie and Neil

Towel Rails: Design Stuff

Light Scones: The Lighting Collective

Bright coloured towels are by: Kip & Co

Tanika Blair 11/17/23 Tanika Blair 11/17/23

Why you should hire an editorial style photographer over a real estate photographer

What do editorial style photographers do, that real estate photographers don’t.

Now I’m not saying all real estate photographs, but the low budget real estate photographers, are generally not going to do the following, and an editorial style photographer will (and I always will):

1/they’ll get to know you ahead of the shoot, and what you are really hopping for out of the final photos of the property.

2/ asses the sunlight direction, write out a shoot plan, with the sunlight being the no. 1 priority … this means capturing the property in it’s best natural sunlight scenes.

What do editorial style photographers do, that real estate photographers don’t, and why should you hire a editorial style photographer over a real estate photographer to photograph your next interior design project or airbnb.

1/they’ll get to know you ahead of the shoot, and what you are really hopping for out of the final photos of the property.

2/ asses the sunlight direction, write out a shoot plan, with the sunlight being the no. 1 priority … this means capturing the property in it’s best natural sunlight scenes.

3/ style to camera, they’ll often bring their own homewares props, but will also use what the home has available, they will be using a tripod, and tethering their camera to an iPad or laptop, so that they can walk into the composition, see live what they are about to capture and tweak every homewares and furniture piece, to make for a more appealing photo (if needed, and time allows).

4/ they’ll use fresh flowers and greenery to add warmth, feel and mood to the home.

5/ they use more appealing compositions, having things blurred in the foreground, drawing the eye into the focal point. This really sets the scene and vibe of the property.

6/ they’ll use human figures in the photo, to add to the scale of the portions of the home, and for viewers to imagine themselves in the space.

7/ they’ll think of styling details, like adding ice to the glasses of water, to add more ‘life’ to the photos, with out needing to actually put a person in the photo if it’s not possible for the shoot.

8/ you are definitely more liking to get published using an editorial style photographer over a real estate photographer

Have you got any questions about the difference between a traditional real estate photographer and editorial style photographer, please don’t hesitate to get in contact, I’d love to chat.

hello@tanikablair.com.au

Tanika Blair 10/19/23 Tanika Blair 10/19/23

Tanika's own Tweed Heads Airbnb - Photography for Orie Home

This is our own newly renovated home, which is now available on airbnb.

https://airbnb.com/h/oriehome

We absolutely adore this home of ours, and are so thrilled to be able to share it’s beauty for the summer while we are travelling in our caravan for a couple of months.

This is our own newly renovated home, which is now available on airbnb.

https://airbnb.com/h/oriehome

We absolutely adore this home of ours, and are so thrilled to be able to share it’s beauty for the summer while we are travelling in our caravan for a couple of months.

Tanika Blair 3/30/23 Tanika Blair 3/30/23

Creatives in the industry you need for your next photoshoot

You’ve booked a shoot with me, what’s next? … do you want to know the top 4 questions I get asked by my clients?

Do you have a make up artist you recommend?

Erin Forbes is my number 1 recommendation for make up, she can also style hair, but if it’s a bigger shoot, with more people, you may want to book in with Moosh Hair Studio.

Where do you purchase fresh flowers and greenery?

If you can get there, The GC Flower Market, in Burliegh Heads is fantastic, closer to my local area, I use Tugun Fruit and Flower Market.

Where can we hire furniture and large props for our photo shoot?

I have a large collection of smaller homewares props available to hire for my shoots, but if there are larger furniture items you are in need of for your shoot, I can highly recommend Tailored Space Interiors, in Tweed Heads.

What is your favourite studio to work in?

I do have my own photography studio, to use for small shoots …. when it’s not possible to use my own photography studio (if it is a larger shoot, with a bigger team) … my favourite Photography Studio is 11 Past 11 Studio in Currumbin, Masa is always so helpful, and is set up so well, for all kinds of shoots, he has everything you need.

Tanika Blair 2/20/23 Tanika Blair 2/20/23

10 tips for getting your interior design project published

florals/greenery … buy fresh, buy big, but with intent for the project, and the magazine you hope the home is going to be published in … do your research look out for floral trends, and what that particular magazine is liking/publishing right now.

florals/greenery … buy fresh, buy big, but with intent for the project, and the magazine you hope the home is going to be published in … do your research look out for floral trends, and what that particular magazine is liking/publishing right now.
styling to camera … don’t rush it, take your time, to set up, and then tweak every styling piece (and furniture) to suit that particular camera angle. (The iPad isa must for this).
research the magazine you wish to be published in, style with that magazine in mind
use natural lighting, work with the lighting of the home
allow for a full day shoot, so that every room is photographed in it’s best natural light (utilising, early morning and late afternoon light to add feeling and mood to the photographs.
get in the photos, having people in the photos is a must, wether it is the home owners or the interior designer, you need to get into the photos
bring props, the styling accessories are very important, and will guide the end style of the home
writing, it does help to have the story written before even submitting to the magazines, wether that is getting it professionally done, or writing the piece yourself, to give the magazine team more back story and more to work with … you need to make it easy for them to say yes, all the work has been done for them.
style the outfits for your self or the home owners, with as much time and energy as you did the rest of the house, the outfits need to compliment the interior styling.
don’t put it on social media, your website, or email newsletters … until the job has been published, do not show anyone but the magazine you hope to publish the work, until it has been published.

See Tanika’s published work here.

Tanika Blair 1/28/23 Tanika Blair 1/28/23

Why choose professional photographer, Tanika Blair and her team to capture your latest project or next product campaign.

Here at Tanika Blair Photography, we work as a team to facilitate new idea's and creativity to bring our clients vision to life.

A collaborative effort that leads to innovation, productivity and success.

Why choose Tanika and her team to capture your latest project or next product campaign.

Here at Tanika Blair Photography, we work as a team to facilitate new idea's and creativity to bring our clients vision to life.

A collaborative effort that leads to innovation, productivity and success.

We understand the investment our clients are making in their business when choosing us, in return we give you high-quality and on-brand imagery that will consistently market your business.

It is all in the details…

We Photograph with intent and purpose. From the beginning, we take our time in ensuring each detail is strategically placed, we go above and beyond to establish we get that effortlessly perfect look for each image.

Behind the scenes - the editing. This is the reason our clients love us like they do. We are so detail focussed, each image is crafted with your business in mind so that it is your product that shines through.

What sets us apart from the rest...

Tanika has a strong background and passion in Interior Design with 10+ years of experience in the industry, including work with UK Interior Designer, David Gavin Design and Farrow & Ball.

Tanika has been hand selected and flown around Australia to Photograph leading Interior Designers’ Projects including Design Scout Interiors in Sydney, Cabin Co in Tasmania and Urban Road x Shaynna Blaze in Melbourne.

One of Tanika’s career highlights is seeing her work inside or on the cover of inspiring Australian magazines. Tanika’s work has been published in Inside-Out Magazine, Adore Magazine, Queensland Homes, House & Garden and Home Design Australia.

Tanika Blair 5/4/22 Tanika Blair 5/4/22

SHOP LIKE A STYLIST - Where I shop for my home.

The first question to answer, and definitely the thing I get asked the most is ... where do I shop?

Here's a list of my go to stores for various home interiors products, at affordable prices.

Ever wanted to know where a stylist shops? … I’m trying to answer all the questions I get asked most, in this new blog series.

The first question to answer, and definitely the thing I get asked the most is ... where do I shop?

So here goes, a list of online stores, my go to’s, when I am hunting for anything furniture, homewares, bed linen, towels, artwork etc … anything for my house (or for shoots, or for clients homes).

(photo in my own home, dining chairs from West Elm, dining table by Canvas & Sasson)

SOFAS

UD Furniture (which are available through Tailored Space Interiors) their sofas are made in Brisbane, not overseas ... so you don't have to wait 50 weeks to get your sofa delivered ... generally, they are custom made and delivered within 3 weeks. They have a variety of designs to choose from, you pick the size, configuration and fabric (there are heaps to choose from in the Tailored Space showroom) ... and of course, they are customisable in other ways too. If you wanting a more coastal looking sofa, of course, head to The Beach Furniture. Which you can generally get delivered the week you purchase.

FURNITURE

I mostly shop online, I check out all of these, every time I start a new project ... Interiors Online, Life Interiors, Matt Blatt, Uniqwa Furniture, Globe West, West Elm and Canvas & Sasson.

For furniture that is actually made here on the Gold Coast (it's very rare to even find furniture made in Australia these days, let alone right here on the GC) ... Kira & Kira are making stunning handcrafted pieces that are so full of love and passion for what they do. Their store is in Miami (and their workshop is in Burleigh).

(photo in my own home, coloured side table & candle sticks by Fenton & Fenton, coral by Shell Mac)

RUGS

I have purchased a few West Elm rugs for myself, for clients I look to Bayliss Rugs, which are also available at Tailored Space Interiors. Or Temple and Webster, Freedom and Ikea usually have a good selection to choose from at reasonable prices. (the stores listed under Furniture often have a good variety of rugs to choose from too)

ART

Urban Road, WarranBrooke, Society 6, Poster Club for affordable prints ... or Kira & Kira for original art. You could also check out Greenhouse Interiors and Jumbled Online.

(photo in my home, buffet unit by West Elm)

CUSHIONS & THROWS

For my own home I have purchased 'little mini works of art' (as I like to call them) from Bonnie and Neil, Sparkk, Eadie Lifestyle, Milk & Sugar and Urban Road. For clients, I often source cushions from Walter G Textiles (available from The Beach Furniture) ... and I am currently obsessed with Slowdown Studio and Hawtrey (available from Kira & Kira).

BEDDING

I love Adairs, it is my go to, if I need something quick ... but if you have time to order online, I turn to I love Linen, Kip & Co, Linen House, In Bed Store.

LIGHTING

I generally look through the list under 'furniture' ... or Milk & Sugar usually have lovely options and Tailored Space Interiors. Beacon Lighting is always worth a try and The Beach Furniture often have a selection of unique options for the coastal home.

HOMEWARES

Try any of the above for decorative homewares ... but for random, quirky homewares I look to my overseas favourites Anthropologie, Rocket St George, Consort Design and Graham & Green.

FAVOURITES FOR EVERYTHING they do:

Green House Interiors, Fenton & Fenton, Jumbled Online, Kip & Co, Koskela, House Society, Sage & Clare , Society of Wanderers, Bonnie & Neil, Norsu

Other larger stores that I frequent for a good deal:

Adairs, H&M (instore), Country Road and Seed Heritage (they just released their first homewares collection)

If there's anything in particular you are searching for, don't hesitate to ask me, I'll point you in the right direction.

Or maybe you are interested in my 'E-Styling' services? ... I'll source everything you need for a complete refresh of your furniture and homewares, I'll create moodboards so you can visualise it all in your home before you make the purchases. But you don't have to pay big 'interior design' fees, as you can do all the purchasing yourself (and mostly from the comfort of your living room). I'll send you the specifications in a ready to use, easy document, taking the hassle and decision making stress out of styling a new space or updating an existing one. Contact me here, if you would like to know more about this service.

I hope you've found something you love or learnt something new from these little paragraphs, happy 'home-making'

- Tanika

Tanika Blair 8/30/21 Tanika Blair 8/30/21

SHOOT LOCATIONS - Tips for hiring your home out for photo shoots

As someone who has photographed many many Shoot Locations, and use shoot locations for her products clients regularly, here are my top tips for hiring out your house for Photo Shoots.

As someone who has photographed many many Shoot Locations, and use shoot locations for her product clients regularly, here are my top tips for hiring out your house for Photo Shoots … after chatting to so many home owners already doing it, and being asked a variety of questions from home owners who are wanting to hire out their house. Here are my top tips, and questions answered (don't hesitate to get in contact if there’s anything else you’d like to know):

Tanika Blair Interior Photography - Imigen's Family Home - Miami, Gold Coast --7041.jpg

Show your potential customers (the businesses looking for shoot locations) how beautiful your home is, buy having it professionally photographed by me … you’ll need to show your house in the best natural lighting it gets, clients will want to see where the light hits. And even better would be a list, and photo examples of where the light hits at what time of day (the times will change through out the year) … this is is helpful for the businesses to plan their photoshoots out, and get the most out of your house. (some businesses will want to ‘scout’ the location ahead of a shoot, to really get a good idea of the light and space).
You will need to have a contract drawn up, to cover your house for any damages that may occur, I can help you out with this, upon completion of photographing your house for you.
There are two quite well known businesses that are like Airbnb, for shoot locations … Pure Locations and Aloca … these businesses advertise your house for shoot hire, they take all the stress out of the process for you, and handle everything … booking your clients, contracts, taking payments etc … you do of course have to pay them a fee, but if you don’t have the time, or just don’t want to have to do it, they will do all the ‘book keeping’ side of hiring out your home for shoots. It also means a lot bigger businesses (with more money to spend) are seeing your home and that it is available to hire. But of course you an handle this all yourself if you choose to.
I would also highly recommend starting an instagram account purely for your house, and advertising the fact you are now hiring it out for shoots. Naming your home, and featuring only the professional photography you will get from me after I photograph it for you. You definitely don’t need to be posting on this account all the time, it’s not another thing you have to maintain … but it does mean when you have shoots at your house, everyone involved with the shoot … photographers, models, make up artists etc … have a instagram account to ‘tag’ where they are, and then that’s free advertising for you. And if they are tagging the house, you can repost/share any of their content, so free content for you, to advertise that your house is available for shoot hire (more professional photography, rather than dodgy iPhone photos, of your house). You do need to have a clear brand, and if you are paying for professional photography, I wouldn’t then post random iPhone photos that don’t match the aesthetic brand of the house, branding is so so important. Having a beautiful logo for you house is also very helpful, to give the overall feel of the home. (I come from a graphic design background too, so I can design a logo for your home).
All you really need to do it have a clean and tidy house, before each shoot booking. You may want to hire a cleaner for this, I can also recommend some for you, depending on your location.
If you literally don’t want to deal with any of this, I am available to photograph your home, and do all this other work to have it up and running, ready to take on clients … designing a logo, launching your instagram account, writing out contracts, and automated email replies with all the details, putting together PDF’s to talk your potential clients through your house, how the light hits etc, we could even video your house, to really show the lay out etc …

Bonus Tips

@peppahart has a beautiful home in Cabarita (@casa_campana) that was built for shoot hire, she has spoken a lot about hiring out her home for shoots on her instagram account, some really helpful content there, if you would like to read more, from someone who is already hiring out her house.

Your house doesn’t need to be ‘perfect’ and jaw dropping amazing, you would be surprised by the price my photography clients have paid, and houses I have used for product shoots for clients in the past, I will be completely honest with you, if I think your home will not be able to be a shoot location, just ask me, I won’t lie to you and waste your time.

If the whole home isn’t photo shoot ready … you just need to be completely honest with your potential clients, about what areas of your home are shoot worthy, how many rooms, or outdoor spaces can be used, what the best angles are etc.

If you’d like to see some of the homes I have photographed in the past that are all hiring out their homes for photo shoot locations, head over here. These shoots were all done purely to advertise these homes being available for shoot hire. And these homes here, are some that I have used for product photography shoots, in the past.

As always, don't hesitate to get in contact, to find out more about my services, and even just to have a chat about hiring out your home for shoots.

Tanika Blair 8/29/21 Tanika Blair 8/29/21

AIRBNB - Tips for hiring out your house for holiday accommodation

As someone who has photographed many many many Airbnb’s … and spoken to a variety of homeowners Airbnb-ing their properties … here are some of my top tips for Airbnb-ing your home.

Styling

Before you have your property photographed, it is a good idea to think about wether you are whiling to spend some money to restyle your property by a professional stylist … I come from a background in Interior Design and Styling, as well as having experience in Marketing and Graphic Design … this combination of skills, always being focused on home interiors is what sets me apart now as a professional and trusted photographer, who also styles.

You definitely don’t have to have me re-style your home, you can choose any interior designers/stylist you like, if you like their style, but I do think a really beautiful Airbnb, that is aesthetically pleasing not only in photographs but also in person is very important to really get the most out of Airbnb-ing your home, to stand out from the crowd.

Having key features you become known for in your Airbnb (when potential guests see photos fo your Airbnb online), a particular painting, a cool colour palette … the most relaxing space someones ever laid eyes on … all these things add up to a memorable space, it all goes in with your branding, the more professional you are about Airbnb-ing your property, the more money you can charge and the more bookings you are going to get.

I have a variety of stylists I can reccomend for you, depending on the style you are after, and how far you want to go when it comes to re-designing or re-styling your home.

2. Photography

Obviously I highly recommend a professional photoshoot of your Airbnb when it is styled it’s best. Professional photography is going to say to your potential clients, that you take Airbnb-ing seriously, that you are a trusted Airbnb Host, with a home worthy of their holiday money spending.

Before your photoshoot, you do want to make sure the home is clean and tidy, this saves me (or the photographer you choose) time, tiding and cleaning, that could be spent photographing your space.

After the photoshoot, after you have received your professional photographs, here’s what you should know …

3. Branding … choosing a great name for your property, having a logo custom made, starting an instagram for the property … and even better, a website for the property. If all this overwhelms you, these are all things I am more then capable of doing for you, please don’t hesitate to get in contact to chat about my Airbnb branding packages … getting you completely set up, and teaching you anything you need to know in the on going marketing of your Airbnb.

4. Instagram … Having an instagram for the property doesn’t necessarily mean you have to keep up with that instagram, constantly posting etc … it means the people who stay at your Airbnb, have an instagram account to tag when they are posting photos, it means there friends will be able to check out your Airbnb, by clicking that tagged link straight away … you can set up automated messages for anyone direct messaging you on instagram, so you really don’t have to be using it as such … but by all means if you are into it, I can teach you how to use Instagram to better your Airbnb business.

5. Airbnb.com … Setting up your profile on Airbnb.com … probably the most important task of them all, I can also do this task for you if you choose, adding all the professional photos, writing a beautiful description etc etc.

6. Local Guides … An added extra, that is just such a nice touch to an Airbnb, is a local guide … a list of places, cafes, restaurants, things to do … ideally a list that you write out, as you will know the area of your Airbnb better then me, and then I will design a Mini Local Guide, that is branded beautiful to your personal Airbnb, this Guide can then be sent to your guests as a PDF, once they book their stay at your Airbnb, before they arrive for their holiday … you could also have a copy printed nicely as more of a magazine, to sit on the coffee table, waiting for your guests when they arrive.

Courses

If you REALLY want to get into all things Airbnbing your home yourself I can highly recommend doing either one of the following courses:

Sarah Andrew’s Airbnb Course.

I have heard amazing things about this course, I haven’t done it myself, but I definitely believe this would be worth looking into if you are serious about Airbnb-ing your property. The creator of The Hosting Masterclass owns The Captains Rest, very well known Airbnb in Tasmania.

Salt at Shoal Bay use to always host Airbnb workshops, it doesn’t look like they are doing them right now, but I would keep an eye on this too, they looked incredible, I lot of them were hosted in collaboration with Natalie Walton, a well known stylist.

Managing your Airbnb.

If you want someone to completely run your Airbnb, including a makeover, all the cleaning, booking holiday makers etc … I can also highly recommend Ranger Property who are based in Byron Bay. (I do most of their photographing work for the many many Airbnb’s they manage.

Tanika Blair 1/18/21 Tanika Blair 1/18/21

How to get the best out of your professional photo shoot - 12 tips for working with a photographer

Are you about to pay big dollars for a professional photo shoot of your latest project or products?

Here’s a check list to make sure you get the most out of your shoot with your chosen photographer.

Tanika+Blair+Photography+-+Ranger+Property+-+Bask+Bangalow+Airbnb+-+Byron+Bay+Holiday+Accomodation-2690+copy.jpg