The Blog

Interior Design Photoshoot | How to Prepare for a Photoshoot

When you are ready to highlight your newest project, it is always great to plan for your interior design photoshoot. The prep work matters just as much as the photography. A beautifully designed space deserves to be captured with intention, and a little planning goes a long way.

Here are five things I always recommend when I work with an Interior Designer in Dallas to make sure the photoshoot runs smoothly and your designs are captured just how you imagined.

dallas interior photographer taking bright portraits in a kitchen

Start With a Creative Call
Before your interior design photoshoot, schedule a call with your photographer to align on your vision. Do you want the photos to feel clean and modern? Cozy and lived-in? Are there special details like custom millwork, vintage lighting, or layered textiles you want highlighted? This is the time to walk through those ideas and set the tone. A quick call helps everyone go into the session feeling aligned and confident.

full marble kitchen with gold accents and luxury range interior design photoshoot
full marble kitchen with gold accents and luxury range in the interior design photoshoot

Create Your Shot List
Think through each space and jot down the angles, vignettes, or design moments you want to make sure we don’t miss. Whether it’s a wide shot of the living room, a close-up of the stunning tile, or the way light hits the kitchen island, a shot list keeps us focused and organized throughout the day. It also gives us a checklist to reference during your interior design photoshoot if we’re working on a tight timeline.

Plan to Collaborate On Set
Once we’re on-site, collaboration is key during your interior design photoshoot. Your photographer will help find the most flattering angles and lighting, but your input on design intent is invaluable. Don’t be afraid to tweak a pillow or shift a chair slightly—those small adjustments can make a big impact when we’re styling each frame.

Prep Your Space the Day Before
The day before your interior design photoshoot, walk through each space and make sure everything is clean, clutter-free, and styled just how you want it. This is also a great time to pull together any props like fresh flowers, books, or candles that will help bring the space to life. Having everything ready to go means we can focus fully on photographing the space on shoot day.

Shoot Day = Collaboration + Creativity
On shoot day, think of it as a creative collaboration. You bring the design expertise, and your photographer brings the visual storytelling. Together, we’ll make sure the final images reflect your work beautifully, from full-room compositions to the tiny details that make your style unique. The best interior design photoshoots are the ones where everyone’s ideas are heard, and the energy on set is collaborative and calm.

    Ready to Photograph Your Next Interior Project?
    Whether it’s a full home, one special room, or a standout detail you want to showcase, prepping for your interior design photoshoot with a bit of intention will set you up for success. If you’re looking for a Dallas-based interior photographer who loves capturing the textures, tones, and beauty of your design work—let’s chat. You can contact me here.

    Let's connect

    Carol Riell is a lifestyle and portrait photographer specializing in family, senior, brand, headshot and interior photography in Plano, Texas. She loves to photograph the entire Dallas Fort Worth metroplex, including but not limited to Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Dallas, Prosper, Richardson, Allen, Prosper and beyond. She specializes in families, seniors, branding and interior photography in the Dallas Fort Worth area.