The importance of styling for interior and architecture photoshoots

Styling is an essential element when it comes to photographing interior and architecture projects. It is the finishing touches that allow your completed project to shine and hone in on what makes your service and style uniquely yours by creating impactful imagery. While a project may have included a styling package for the homeowners, styling for a photoshoot involves an added layer of curating  elements to produce images that best represent your brand, appeal to your ideal client and enhance editorial feel.

Finding the balance between lived-in and curated can be a challenge. While you can try to do it all, you don't have to! Adding a stylist to your team can relieve a lot of pressure in terms of planning and prep, but will also elevate the final set of images.

Reasons to consider hiring a stylist for your next project:

• When a project didn’t include full decorating and there is a lot to source for your shoot.
• During a busy season.
• If you want to pitch the project for editorial.
• When a project is missing furniture or large artwork, or you'd like to swap out some existing elements.
  
• If it’s a large project with many spaces to style.
• If you feel like you’ve plateaued and are looking to attract a higher level of client.

Benefits of working with a stylist on a shoot include:

• Sourcing: Stylists can source decor, props and fresh/perishable elements. They are versed in shopping quickly, know where to source and can take care of returns. Some may also have access to unique suppliers, have their own prop collection, or easy access to furniture and art rentals 
• Creative Direction: Stylists are freelance creatives who typically work across different types of photography projects including advertising, books and editorial. They are familiar current trends, working with industry leaders, creative agencies and photographers. They can offer creative direction for image content, composition and the overall set of images. Many come with an editorial background which can be especially helpful if you are looking to pitch a project for editorial, as they have insight into different publications preferences and how to build in relevant story driven elements through styling.
  
• Help Establish Consistent Brand Imagery: Finding a trusted stylist that you can work with over the years will help establish a consistent and unique look and feel to your brand imagery.
  
• Planning & Prep: From a logistical stand point, working with a stylist forces you to plan ahead. They'll be involved with scouting, cleaning/space prep, sourcing, styling and re-setting the space. This results in more thoughtful execution of the styling and a less stressful photoshoot!
  

Tips for working with a stylist:

• Plan ahead! If you are thinking of hiring a stylist, plan well in advance to ensure you are able to allocate enough time to the process to have a successful shoot.
  
• Find the right fit, both in terms of personality and creative vision. Ideally, this is someone who will become an extension of your team who you can go back to time and time again. They'll better understand and execute your vision the more they get to know you, your brand, your design style and professional goals.
• Trust your stylist and give them creative latitude.  Be open to their professional expertise but offer guidance and feedback to ensure a successful shoot.
  

Reach out!

One of my favourite things about shooting interiors is the opportunity to work with other creative individuals with an eye for detail. If you're looking for some help with an upcoming shoot don't hesitate to reach out. I'd love to connect you with talented creatives in our city!