What to Include in Your Interior Photography Shot List
A thoughtfully planned shot list ensures every photography session captures the images you need for your portfolio, website, social media, publications, and long-term marketing. Here's what every interior designer should include before photography day.
By Stacy Markow
When it comes to interior photography, the shot list can make or break the final results. As a designer, you’re probably already thinking about the space’s design and how it translates to the photo. But what exactly should be included in your photography shot list? It’s about more than just capturing the space, you need to ensure that each shot serves a purpose and is part of a cohesive narrative that tells your story. By planning ahead, we can create an amazing set of images that truly represent your work, style, and vision.
What to Include in a Photography Shot?
The difference between a good photoshoot and a great one is having a shot list that’s both intentional and reflective of your brand. So, you’re probably wondering, “What should I include in my photography shot list?” For full day photoshoots, I like to walk the space together so we can capture angles, discuss styling, and develop a game plan for photoshoot day. With that said, here’s a round-up of the type of shots I think every shot list should include.
Here’s a breakdown that’ll help you take control of the photoshoot process:
1. Wide-Angle/Hero Shot:
The Whole Picture
The first thing you should have on your shot list is a wide-angle shot or “hero shot” that shows the space. These shots are the foundation of your portfolio, and while they might not get as much engagement on social media, they are absolutely essential for marketing, pitching to publications, and your website. These shots will show the space in its entirety, giving context to the rest of your design.
Photography Tip: Aim to get at least one wide shot per room. Start with this one early on to set the tone and get it just right. This is your money shot.
2. Vignettes
The Beauty is in the Design
After your wide shots, let’s talk about the vignettes, those beautiful, tighter moments within the space that make it special. Whether it’s a corner with a cozy chair, a perfectly styled bookshelf, or a corner nook, these shots highlight the thoughtfulness of your design.
On your photography shot list, make sure you have vignettes planned for these areas that show off the unique aspects of your design, like the texture of the fabrics, the styling of the accessories, or the play of light across the space.
3. Details
Show Off the Craftsmanship
If your project has intricate details, think custom cabinetry, gorgeous countertops, or those perfectly handpicked light fixtures, detail shots are a must! These shots showcase the craftsmanship and texture, and they’re a great way to highlight the quality of your work.
Photography Insight: Get in close for those detail shots. Focus on the materials, textures, and finishes that make your design stand out. Trust me, these will be the shots that make your portfolio shine.
Take a look at Nikki Chu’s Dreamy Florida Beach Sanctuary to see all the variety of shots we got for her interior design project.
4. Brand & Lifestyle Environmental Portraits
Humanize Your Business
Yes, you read that right, portraits! Adding lifestyle shots of you working in your design spaces is a game-changer. It gives potential clients a peek into your process and shows them exactly what it’s like to work with you.
These shots could be you tweaking the pillows, inspecting your final product, or even talking with a client. Don’t be afraid to get a little personal here, it’ll help clients relate to you and see the heart behind your design work.
Photography Insight: These should feel natural and relaxed, capture those behind-the-scenes moments that show your approachability.
Read on the blog about How Professional Interior Photography and Brand Photos Boost Your Brand’s Success.
5. Functional Spaces
Appliance garage, hidden playroom, secret entry
Let’s not forget about functional spaces that make the most of every inch, like an appliance garage in the kitchen, a hidden playroom under the stairs, or a secret entrance behind a bookcase that opens up to a private bar. These clever design elements are all about blending functionality with beauty, and it’s essential to showcase both.
Pro Tip: When photographing these functional spaces, make sure to highlight unique elements, like custom cabinetry, clever storage solutions, and other thoughtful details that enhance usability. You want to show off not only the aesthetic but also the brilliance behind the design.
6. Collaborating with Your Interior Photographer
Having a strong photography shot list is only half the battle. The real magic happens when you and your photographer collaborate. We’ll discuss your vision, go over the shot list, and then start setting up each scene. This collaboration helps ensure we’re highlighting your design just the way you envisioned.
Photography Insight: If you see something in the composition that doesn’t feel right, say something! We’re here to get it just perfect for you, so don’t be shy about giving feedback. I’m an advocate for open communication and safe spaces.
7. Marketing Priority Images
Before photography day, think beyond the portfolio. Which images will become your website hero banner? Which photographs will support your next blog post? Which rooms have publication potential? Identifying these priorities before the session helps ensure your photography supports your business long after the shoot is over.
Why It’s Important to Plan Your Shot List in Advance
Planning ahead is key to a smooth and productive photoshoot. When we know exactly what we’re capturing, we can work more efficiently and make sure we don’t miss any important shots. If you’ve ever felt rushed on shoot day, you know that a poorly planned shot list leads to chaos.
By taking time before the shoot to create a photography shot list, you ensure that we’re both on the same page about what we’re aiming for. The list doesn’t have to be rigid, but knowing the “must-haves” will give us a clear direction and help avoid wasting time.
Building Your Brand Through Interior Photography
Every successful interior photography session begins with a thoughtful shot list. This guide covers the essential images every interior designer should plan for; from portfolio-worthy hero photographs to detail shots, vertical compositions, and marketing imagery that continues working for your business long after photography day.
Follow Along on Instagram
Recent projects, behind-the-scenes moments, and a closer look at the spaces, details, and designers I have the opportunity to photograph.
Ready to Create a Stronger Photography Plan?
A thoughtful shot list is one of the simplest ways to get more from your photography investment. By identifying your marketing priorities before photography day, you can create images that support your website, social media, publications, awards, and portfolio for years to come.
Every interior photography session I photograph includes Creative Production Planning, a collaborative walkthrough where we develop a strategic shot list, prioritize your marketing goals, and ensure every image has a purpose before the camera comes out.
Ready to plan your next project?
