Tori Sikkema, AD Published Interior | Architectural | Lifestyle Photographer, based in NJ but travels everywhere!
Interior design photography is a powerful tool that allows designers to showcase their work and tell the story of their projects. However, achieving the desired look in these photographs requires a delicate balance between available light, design aesthetics, and the overall vibe the designer wants to convey. Whether you prefer a moody, organic, or balanced look, collaborating with a skilled interior design photographer is crucial to capturing stunning images that accurately represent your design vision. In this blog, we will explore the factors contributing to a moody, organic, or balanced look in interior design photography and how working with a professional photographer can bring your vision to life.
Harnessing Available Light
One of the fundamental elements in interior design photography is using available light. Natural light can create a unique atmosphere and enhance the beauty of a space. By allowing the photographer to work with the available light in the room, they can understand how it interacts with different surfaces, textures, and objects. The direction and intensity of light play a crucial role in setting the mood and highlighting specific design elements.
Design Aesthetics and Storytelling
Every designer has a distinct aesthetic and vision for their projects. Some may prefer a moody ambiance with dramatic lighting, while others lean towards an organic and modern feel. Additionally, coastal designs often call for a balanced image that reflects light and bright furnishings. It is essential to communicate your design aesthetic to the photographer, as they can tailor their approach to align with your vision and effectively convey the intended story of your design project.
Considering Time of Day
The time of day when a space is photographed greatly influences the quality and ambiance of the images. Morning light tends to be softer and cooler, while afternoon light can be warmer and more intense. The photographer will collaborate with you to determine the ideal time of day to capture your space, considering the desired mood and how light interacts with the environment.
Understanding Colors and White Balance
Colors are an integral part of interior design, and it is essential to capture them accurately. An experienced interior design photographer will consider the tones of the wall color, flooring, and layers in the space to establish a color balance and white balance. This ensures the images maintain an even and true representation of your chosen colors, effectively showcasing your design elements.
Working with a Professional Photographer
When selecting an interior design photographer, finding someone who understands your design aesthetic and can work with the available light to create exceptional images that reflect your brand is crucial. Professional photographers have the technical skills and artistic eye to enhance the visual impact of your designs and capture the essence of your spaces. Their composition, lighting, and post-processing expertise will elevate your interior design photography to new editorial heights.
Interior design photography is a collaborative process that requires a deep understanding of design aesthetics, available light, and storytelling. By allowing the interior design photographer to work with the best available light, understanding the relationship between light and space, and maintaining color and white balance, you can ensure that your images truly reflect your design vision. By collaborating with a professional interior design photographer like me, you can create stunning visuals that captivate viewers and effectively showcase your brand.
I’m an Architectural Digest-published interior design photographer and Universal Ambassador. I work with many interior design firms telling their visual story and helping them get published.
Let’s jump on a call here, check out the great resources on my blog, and sign up for my newsletter here.
Follow me on Instagram, too! @torisikkemaphotography
