Interior photography is an art that requires technical expertise and a keen eye to capture spaces attractively and realistically. However, it’s not uncommon to make mistakes that affect image quality. These include distortion, poor exposure and inappropriate compositional choices. In this article, we’ll explore the most common mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them.
1. Understanding distortions and how to correct them
Distortions in interior photography are mainly due to the use of wide-angle lenses. Although they are necessary for capturing tight spaces, they can distort straight lines, making walls or furniture appear curved.
How to avoid distortions :
- Use a tilt-shift lens: These specialized lenses keep vertical lines straight, even in tight spaces.
- Correct in post-processing: Software such as Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop offer tools for straightening perspectives. Here’s a useful guide to perspective correction with Lightroom.
- Shoot horizontally: Position the camera at chest height to avoid pointing the lens up or down.
2. Exposure problems: finding the right balance
Interiors often combine artificial and natural light sources, which can make exposure difficult. Excessive backlighting or overexposure can ruin a photo.
Solutions for better exposure :
- Use exposure bracketing: Capture several images at different exposures and combine them in post-production with the HDR (High Dynamic Range) technique. Find out how in this complete guide to HDR.
- Add artificial light sources: Complement ambient lighting with lamps to balance the light in the room.
- Work in RAW: RAW files contain more exposure data, making post-processing correction easier.
3. Bad composition: thinking like a designer
Poor framing can make a space look messy or unattractive. Common mistakes include unbalanced framing, visual clutter or poor emphasis of points of interest.
Tips for a successful composition :
- Apply the rule of thirds: divide your frame into nine equal sections and place points of interest along lines or at intersections.
- Simplify the space: Clear the clutter before you shoot, so that everything has its place.
- Emphasize guiding lines: Use the natural lines of the space, such as floors or ceilings, to guide the viewer’s eye.
4. Avoid unrealistic colors with good white balance
Various light sources (bulbs, natural light) can create unflattering color casts.
How to adjust white balance :
- Use a grayscale chart: A neutral grayscale chart will help you calibrate the white balance on site.
- Adjust in post-processing: Most editing programs allow you to quickly correct color dominance.
5. The importance of details: careful staging
Small details can make all the difference in an interior photograph. Poorly placed objects or badly cleaned surfaces can distract the viewer’s attention.
Checklist for perfect details :
- Check that the curtains are properly aligned and that the cushions are carefully arranged.
- Remove unnecessary items such as cables or personal items.
- Add decorative touches, such as plants or books, to bring the space to life.
Conclusion
Interior photography requires careful attention to technique and composition to capture the beauty of spaces. By avoiding distortion, mastering exposure, and paying attention to detail, you can produce images that really enhance interiors. If you’d like to learn more, take a look at our detailed tutorials or take an online course.
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