{"id":331012,"date":"2025-08-09T16:49:37","date_gmt":"2025-08-09T16:49:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/331012\/"},"modified":"2025-08-09T16:49:37","modified_gmt":"2025-08-09T16:49:37","slug":"10-things-interior-stylists-always-bring-to-shoots","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/331012\/","title":{"rendered":"10 things interior stylists always bring to shoots"},"content":{"rendered":"

Photoshoots \u2013 we\u2019ve all become mini pros by now, thanks to Instagram. But when it comes to capturing interiors, there\u2019s a difference between tweaking contrast in post and getting the shot right from the start. The pros know how to make a room look effortless \u2013 and elevated \u2013 in real life.<\/p>\n

So how do they do it? I asked interior designers and stylists \u2013 the people who do this for a living \u2013 to get some answers and find out the key pieces they bring to shoot to make a home look more pulled together.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The secret isn\u2019t having fewer things (sure, a blank space can look clean, but it can also feel clinical). It\u2019s about the right things \u2013 and, as it turns out, there are a few items stylists have under their belts to make a home look more expensive<\/a> and shoot-ready.<\/p>\n

You may like<\/p>\n

While you might not be staging a shoot in your living room, you probably are hosting people, and who doesn’t want their home to appear as polished (yet effortless) as those you see on the pages of magazines?<\/p>\n

1. A carefully curated collection of trays<\/p>\n

\"Green<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Addison Ross)<\/p>\n

\u2018I never arrive without my selection of trays in varying materials \u2013 marble, brass, wood, woven rattan, and ceramic,\u2019 shares Olga Naiman<\/a>, interior designer, stylist, and author of SPATIAL ALCHEMY. \u2018Trays are the unsung heroes of styling,\u2019 she continues.<\/p>\n

\u2018Instantly creating vignettes and bringing order to collections of objects. They ground floating items on coffee tables, create intentional groupings on ottomans, and can transform scattered elements into cohesive moments. A beautiful tray suggests thoughtful living and gives the eye a place to rest while adding another layer of texture and materiality to the composition.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"macys,<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Butter yellow and oxblood burgundy make an unexpectedly chic pair in this resin tray. Style it with glassware, perfume, or any of those bits and bobs that are currently rolling around without a plan.<\/p>\n

2. Books with character<\/p>\n

\"kitchen<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball \/ Asger Mortensen, Wester Agency)<\/p>\n

\u2018Whether it\u2019s a monograph on Cy Twombly or a sun-bleached vintage novel with deckled edges, a good book tells the story of the person who lives there,\u2019 says Philip Thomas Vanderford, principal and founder of Studio Thomas James<\/a>. \u2018I never show up without a curated stack.\u2019<\/p>\n

Design expertise in your inbox \u2013 from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.<\/p>\n

\u2018Forget bestsellers. On shoot day, books are not there to impress,\u2019 adds Lauren Saab, founder of Saab Studios<\/a> in Dallas. \u2018They are there to support.\u2019 Decorating with books<\/a>, she argues, can\u2019t compensate for weak design, but they can elevate a great space with the right choices.<\/p>\n

\u2018Choose pieces that complement the architecture. Think neutral spines, textured bindings, and oversized art volumes. Select them for their tone, scale, and the way they recede or assert within the frame. When used with restraint, they anchor a composition, guide the eye, and let the space speak for itself.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Slim<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Abrams Books<\/p>\n

Slim Aarons: Style<\/p>\n

Who doesn’t like luxury? Or vacation? Slim Aarons\u2019 subject matter is photogenic, collectible, and a reliable shortcut to cool.<\/p>\n

3. Hand towels<\/p>\n

\"pink<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Anthropologie)<\/p>\n

It\u2019s the thing you already own \u2013 but probably haven\u2019t given enough thought. Stylist Kathleen Varner<\/a> says it\u2019s time to lean into the quiet power of a good hand towel.<\/p>\n

She recommends a mix of sizes. \u2018Kitchens, powder baths, mud room sinks \u2013 they can always use a linen option to soften things up,\u2019 she says. \u2018They\u2019re easy to pack, sometimes they double as my wrapping tool if I need to secure delicate items. They can also add a little punch of color to tie a color story together.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Isa<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Anthropologie<\/p>\n

Isa Tiger Cotton Hand Towel <\/p>\n

Plain white reads staging. These tiger-print Anthropologie hand towels<\/a> read: someone really fun with amazing taste actually lives here.<\/p>\n

4. Gutsy, ideally in-season, flowers and greenery <\/p>\n

\"Dining<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Studio Thomas James)<\/p>\n

Carola Pimentel, Principal of Assure Interiors<\/a>, and stylist Emilio Pimentel-Reid swear by \u2018gutsy overscaled floral arrangements\u2019 as an essential styling move. \u2018Few things kill the vibe of a photograph more than a stingy floral arrangement,\u2019 she says, meanwhile noting her affinity for housing them in crystal or vintage glass vases for heightened interest.<\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing warms a room up like flowers,\u2019 adds Lisa Erdmann of Lisa Erdmann Interiors<\/a>. Whether it\u2019s a cluster of palm fronds, a dramatic orchid, or a bedside bouquet, Lisa always lets the room and setting guide her floral choices. (Exotic anthuriums in Palm Beach, for instance, are a yes.)<\/p>\n

\u2018Florals and plants are a given \u2013 the more in season, the better, and the more the merrier,\u2019 says stylist Kathleen Varner. She brings a full bin of vases in all shapes and sizes to every shoot. \u2018Some homes need more color, others more neutral.\u2019<\/p>\n

And according to designer Philip Thomas Vanderford, it\u2019s not just what you use, but how you use it: \u2018Think loose garden roses, jasmine vine, or branches from the yard \u2013 organic elements that add life, soul, and movement to a still image.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Faux<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Winward Home<\/p>\n

Faux Orchid Phalaenopsis Floral Arrangement<\/p>\n

The\u00a0best sort of flowers are ones that a) never die and b) discerning houseguests can\u2019t clock as faux. This striking orchid arrangement fits the bill and pays for itself in no time.<\/p>\n

5. Sculptural objects <\/p>\n

\"vaulted<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Joanna MacLennan)<\/p>\n

Think unique. Obscure. Where have you been, and where do you want to go? Let your unusual objects tell that story.<\/p>\n

\u2018My collection includes unique vessels, candlesticks, small sculptures, and found objects \u2013 each chosen for its ability to hold its own visually while harmonizing with other elements,\u2019 explains Olga Naiman. \u2018These pieces add personality and prevent spaces from looking generic.\u2019<\/p>\n

They should make you pause: \u2018They create focal points, spark conversation, and imbue rooms with the sense that thoughtful, artistic people live there. Whether it\u2019s a ceramic bowl with an interesting glaze or a vintage brass object with patina, these elements are what transform good styling into memorable spatial alchemy.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"EpalladioCeramics,<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

EpalladioCeramics<\/p>\n

Ceramic Olive Oil Pitcher <\/p>\n

Olga flagged this specific avant-garde ceramic oil pitcher, which doubles as a design objet.<\/p>\n

6. Storytelling textiles<\/p>\n

\"preppy<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Lulu and Georgia)<\/p>\n

From pillow upholstery to bed throws, textiles are one of the easiest ways to inject depth, softness \u2013 and a little intrigue \u2013 into a room. The trick is to choose pieces with visual weight and a bit of backstory (or at least, the illusion of one).<\/p>\n

This doesn\u2019t require a pattern explosion; it’s more about adding texture<\/a>. \u2018A throw blanket draped over the arm of a club chair or across a bed adds warmth and breaks up the visual plane of the chair or bed, and helps to move the eye around the shot,\u2019 says interior designer Lisa Erdmann.<\/p>\n

Olga Naiman agrees \u2013 but takes it further. \u2018I bring a curated selection of throws, cushions, and textiles in different weaves \u2013 linen with visible texture, raw silk that catches light beautifully, chunky hand-knitted pieces, and runners that add rich patterns to dining tables,\u2019 she says. \u2018These textiles in carefully chosen tones instantly add depth and softness to any space. They\u2019re essential for creating that layered, lived-in quality that cameras love.\u2019<\/p>\n

Table linens are another subtle way to style a space with intention. \u2018When photographing a kitchen, breakfast room, or dining room, table linens and accessories are essential to creating a \u201clook\u201d and making the space enjoyable,\u2019 Lisa adds. Napkin rings, candlesticks, and pepper shakers can easily become part of a cohesive vignette that turns an everyday table into an editorial moment.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Brunello<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI<\/p>\n

Fringed Linen and Cashmere-Blend Jacquard Blanket<\/p>\n

A Brunello Cucinelli throw blanket? Now that\u2019s a story. Drape it casually and feel smugly superior until the end of eternity.<\/p>\n

7. Burning candles<\/p>\n

\"LED<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Ivyline)<\/p>\n

Unlit wicks might look fresh in person, but in a photo, they give things away. This is often a tip from wedding stylists too, even if you can’t have a real burning flame on your table, light the candles and blow them out, so at least the wick isn’t shining new.<\/p>\n

\u2018Burn candle wicks for realism,\u2019 says interior designer Lauren Saab. \u2018New white wicks on candles might seem fresh and clean at first glance but can catch the light and appear overly staged on camera.’ The fix is simple: \u2018A quick burn darkens the tip, adding instant authenticity and realism to the shot.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Root<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Root Candles<\/p>\n

Smooth Hand-Dipped 9″ Taper Candles, Set of 12<\/p>\n

Lauren swears by Creative Candles for their smokeless, custom-blend wax, and Root Candles\u2019 dipped tapers for their clean flame and drip-free reliability \u2013 even under hot lights.<\/p>\n

8. Interesting food props<\/p>\n

\"red<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Cathy Nordstrom \/ Photography Fanny Radvik)<\/p>\n

Lemons are fine. But they\u2019re not exactly making the cover.<\/p>\n

\u2018For kitchens, I love styling with interesting fruit,\u2019 says Denver-based interior designer Peggy Haddad<\/a>. \u2018Purple artichokes, plums, or heirloom citrus add rich, organic texture and unexpected color.\u2019<\/p>\n

Molly Miller, principal of Molly Miller Interiors<\/a>, agrees: \u2018Seasonal produce in a bowl \u2013 a bowl of green apples or yellow mangoes \u2013 adds color and life, especially to kitchens which often need some extra warmth on camera.\u2019<\/p>\n

Apparently, all it takes to create a little cinematic magic is a trip to the produce aisle.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Millie<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Magnolia<\/p>\n

Millie Glazed Ceramic Compote Bowl<\/p>\n

The key to displaying produce is an equally delicious looking bowl. This one from Magnolia will elevate your fruit and veggies and is on sale right now for under $10.<\/p>\n

9. A ‘tool kit’<\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Future \/ Future Publishing Ltd)<\/p>\n

‘Most important, is a tool kit of essentials to perfect the \u201clook\u201d in the shot,\u2019 says Lisa Erdmann. \u2018These include tape, scissors, a steamer, an iron, museum putty, string, and so on.’<\/p>\n

‘You\u2019d be surprised at the little \u201cfixes\u201d needed to capture the perfect frame. We\u2019ve taped the flanges on bed pillows, used bubble wrap to prop up a pineapple, and tied cords out of sight with string. A well-equipped tool kit is essential for those moments when you need to make things perfect.\u2019<\/p>\n

The steamer, in particular, got name-checked the most. \u2018Natural textiles need revival before they hit the frame,\u2019 adds interior designer Lauren Saab. \u2018A gentle steam lifts the fibers so light moves through them, restoring texture and movement. Use it on linen drapes, cotton bedding, or creased pillowcases to ensure they land cleanly on camera. You want them to read refined, not rigid.\u2019 (And yes \u2013 this applies just as much when prepping for guests.)<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Conair<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Conair<\/p>\n

Turbo Extreme Steam Hand Held Fabric Steamer<\/p>\n

Florida-based interior designer Susan Lin<\/a> recommends Conair as the gold standard of steamers.\u00a0<\/p>\n

10. Small-framed art or photographs<\/p>\n

\"Living<\/p>\n

(Image credit: Paul Whitbread\u00a0\/ Charlotte Boundy)<\/p>\n

Bad art is worse than no art at all \u2013 which says everything about just how much good art can do. The right piece holds visual weight, creates mood, and gives your space a sense of depth and worldliness. So yes, it\u2019s worth the hunt.<\/p>\n

\u2018Decorating with art<\/a> adds joy!\u2019 says interior designer Carola Pimentel. \u2018Our clients are usually collectors or have an interest in art, so usually there are already interesting pieces in place. When we work with younger clients, who are still developing their collection, we partner with our gallery contacts.\u2019<\/p>\n

But you don\u2019t need to be a serious \u2013 or even amateur \u2013 collector to get it right. \u2018A casually propped frame or a leaning canvas can inject intimacy and ease,\u2019 adds designer Philip Thomas Vanderford. \u2018It breaks the formality of a finished room and invites the viewer in.\u2019<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\"Animal<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Lisa Williams<\/p>\n

Animal Art Painting # Ap006<\/p>\n

Painted by artist Lisa Williams using non-toxic paint on cotton canvas, each one is made to order and looks like you paid triple the price.<\/p>\n

\u2018I never want a room to look like a designer just left it,\u2019 shares Birmingham-based Kathleen Varner. \u2018When you shoot a room, I feel like it\u2019s the stylist\u2019s job to take it from fresh out of the box, to feeling more relatable. Of course, we want it to look finished and thoughtful, but not untouchable.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2018Something soft like a blanket, a floral, or a plant makes it into most shots. It\u2019s very important for the designer to make sure the home is clean and organized PRIOR to the shoot (the camera shows everything!) Many times, an area might look OK in person but feel bare once a camera is on it. A small piece of art, a few more books, a larger floral usually solves that. We also love an option with an animal; nothing says home like a pet!\u2019<\/p>\n