As a seasoned interior photographer, I’ve learned that photographing kitchens and interiors requires a combination of technical skill, artistic sensibility, and meticulous attention to detail. While Instagram showcases the stunning results, the process is full of challenges that can define the success of a shot. Whether you’re a homeowner showcasing your space or an interior influencer creating content for your followers, avoiding a few key mistakes can make a world of difference in how your images resonate.

If you’re aspiring to improve your interior photography or simply curious about how professionals achieve their results, here are five common mistakes to avoid—and how to overcome them to create images that inspire and connect.

1. Ignoring Lighting Dynamics

The Mistake: Relying solely on the available light without understanding how it interacts with the space and considering its impact on the mood and clarity of your photo. Harsh sunlight through a window or uneven artificial lighting can negatively impact the shot.

My Solution: Lighting is everything in interior photography. The type of light you want really depends on the mood you want to create. I tend to plan shoots during the day to leverage soft natural light and use things like sheer curtains to diffuse harsh sunlight (if you're in the UK, the majority of the time the clouds diffuse the light for us!). Kitchens generally shine in crisp, clean lighting which showcases details like countertops and appliances. For darker kitchens, I supplement with warm flash and ensure it blends seamlessly with the natural light.

Pro Tip:  When shooting a kitchen, avoid over-reliance on overhead lights. Instead, opt for no artificial light or choose side lighting and candles to create depth and dimension if you want to create a cosy, warm atmosphere.

2. Neglecting Composition and Angles

The Mistake: Shooting at eye level or choosing angles that make the space look cramped or flat.

My Solution: I focus on angles that enhance the room’s proportions. For kitchens, I prefer shooting from slightly above counter height to showcase workspaces and materials. Wide-angle lenses are invaluable, but even if you're shooting with your smartphone, utilise the wide angle feature for those context shots and depth of field in those detail shots.

Pro Tip: Use leading lines like countertops, cabinetry edges, or tile grout lines to guide the viewer’s eye and create a sense of harmony.

3. Overlooking Styling and Details

The Mistake: Forgetting to declutter or improperly styling the space before shooting. A messy or overly staged kitchen feels unauthentic and unappealing.

My Solution: I work closely with homeowners or designers to style the space, balancing functionality and beauty. A bowl of fresh lemons, a sleek coffee machine, or an open cookbook can make the kitchen feel lively without being distracting. The key is in creating a lived-in look that doesn’t feel messy.

Pro Tip: Pay attention to reflections in appliances and surfaces. A rogue reflection can detract from an otherwise polished image.

4. Failing to Showcase the Story of the Space

The Mistake: Capturing the room without context, making it feel lifeless or disconnected.

My Solution: I focus on storytelling by emphasizing key features that define the kitchen’s personality.  Is this a bright, modern kitchen perfect for a chef, or a rustic gathering space filled with family history? For a sleek modern kitchen, I highlight clean lines and minimalist details. For a cosy farmhouse kitchen, I draw attention to rustic textures and warm lighting.

Pro Tip: For Instagram, pair your image with captions that tell the story of the space. Share a behind-the-scenes titbit or describe how the space makes you feel—it helps your followers connect emotionally.

5. Overcomplicating Your Setup

The Mistake: Whether you're a professional photographer or not, bringing in too much gear or trying overly complex setups can feel intimidating and time-consuming.

My Solution: Simplicity often leads to the best results. While professional setups will take your photos to the next level and might involve tripods, lighting kits, and specialized lenses, you can achieve beautiful photos with just a smartphone or a basic camera and natural light. The key is understanding the fundamentals—good lighting, thoughtful composition, and minimal distractions.

Pro Tip: Start with natural light near a window and use a simple reflector (even a white poster board works) to bounce light into darker areas. This keeps the process manageable while still delivering warm, inviting shots.

Why This Matters for Designers and Home Interior Influencers

Thoughtful preparation and intentional photography make your content more relatable, inviting, and impactful. Whether you’re sharing your space with family, promoting your design services, or inspiring followers with home décor ideas, these tips help create images that feel authentic and welcoming.

Want to see more of my work or learn how I can help you create professional-level interior shots? Visit my website to explore my portfolio and book a session!