In the world of real estate photography, capturing inviting, spacious, and visually appealing interiors can be challenging—especially in tight spaces where even 16mm isn’t wide enough. From cramped bathrooms with mirrors that reveal more than intended to rooms built at odd angles, real estate photographers face unique obstacles. Here are some of the most effective strategies to overcome these challenges and create stunning photos that showcase properties at their best.
For real estate photography, wider lenses—such as 14mm or even a fisheye—can help capture the full scope of compact rooms. But it’s essential to balance width with distortion control, as overly wide lenses can make spaces appear warped or unnatural. Experimenting with various focal lengths and lens brands will help you identify which lens works best for small, challenging rooms. If you're at 16mm and still struggling to fit everything in, consider switching to a wider option or stitching multiple shots in post-production.
Bathrooms and other reflective areas pose another level of complexity. Mirrors reflect not only the space but can also catch the photographer’s own image or equipment. One solution is to position yourself in a way that minimizes reflection—sometimes by shooting from an angle or standing on the edge of the frame. Another option is to use an editing tool like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to remove any unwanted reflections or even yourself from the shot, thanks to advanced AI erasing features. This new technology is a lifesaver for real estate photographers, making it easier than ever to clean up the final image.
Not all rooms are perfectly square. When shooting a property with uneven angles or sloping floors, use a tripod with a leveling system to maintain a consistent, professional perspective. Even when the room itself isn’t level, adjusting your camera settings and tripod can help you create a symmetrical, pleasing composition. Post-production tools, like Lightroom’s Transform tool, allow for fine-tuning angles and straightening perspectives, creating images that accurately showcase each space.
Editing can turn a good photo into a great one, and the latest advancements in AI-powered tools in Lightroom and Photoshop are revolutionizing real estate photography. The AI erasing function allows for precise, quick edits that remove distractions and unwanted objects from the frame. This level of control is especially useful in real estate, where attention to detail is crucial. Whether it’s a stray cable, an unfortunate reflection, or minor imperfections, these tools help produce clean, professional images with ease.
Every property is different, and as a real estate photographer, you must be adaptable. Sometimes, rooms are not only tight but also dimly lit or crowded with furniture, adding further obstacles. By preparing for these scenarios—whether it’s packing portable lighting or planning extra time for editing—you can consistently deliver high-quality results. The satisfaction of creating images that attract buyers and represent properties authentically is worth every bit of effort.
Real estate photography may have its share of challenges, but with the right approach, these can become opportunities to hone your craft. From leveraging new tools to refining composition techniques, these experiences make you a stronger, more adaptable photographer. As long as these gigs keep coming, I look forward to each new property and the unique hurdles it brings, confident that I have the skills and tools to capture each space at its best.