How and Where to Shoot Furniture in the UK

93% of consumers say visual appearance is the key factor in a purchasing decision. In furniture, that number is everything. A striking image of a chair, sofa, or dining set can sell faster than any product description. But where and how you shoot makes the difference between a catalogue filler and a gallery that truly converts.

Technical Setup for Furniture Photography

Furniture photography isn’t small-scale product work. Pieces are larger, heavier, and harder to light evenly. That’s why the right setup matters.

Camera & Lenses

Use DSLR or mirrorless cameras for control and image quality. A 24-70mm zoom lens is versatile enough for wide room shots and detailed close-ups. For larger items, consider a tilt-shift lens to avoid distortion.

Tripod

Essential for stability and consistency. It allows you to shoot multiple angles without losing alignment.

Lighting

Natural light is ideal for lifestyle shots, but controlled artificial lighting ensures consistency. A three-point setup (key, fill, and backlight) prevents harsh shadows and helps show off textures.

Colour Accuracy

A grey card or manual white balance is your best friend. Customers want to see true colours, not guess what “oak” or “linen grey” might look like.

Little details matter. Clean furniture meticulously, remove tags, and stage it like it would look in someone’s home. A fingerprint on glass or a crease in fabric can ruin an otherwise perfect image.

Indoor Furniture Photoshoots Across the UK

Indoor shoots bring control. You can dictate the light, choose the styling, and create a consistent look across a whole product line.

A neutral backdrop is often the smartest choice, it lets the furniture be the star. But lifestyle staging is what brings a piece to life. Add a rug under a sofa, or style a dining set with tableware and foliage. Buyers want to imagine living with your furniture.

Angles matter, too. Sofas and armchairs often look strongest at 45 degrees, while dining tables come to life from overhead. Beds tend to shine when photographed from the foot end, showing off their size and comfort. Multiple views and close-ups are essential, front, side, detail shots of fabrics and wood grain. That’s how you build trust with your audience.

Outdoor Furniture Photoshoots in the West Midlands

Outdoor shoots are about mood and storytelling. Natural backdrops give depth and richness that no studio can replicate. A bench beneath a tree suggests peace. A patio set lit by festoon lights promises long summer evenings.

Timing is crucial. Early morning or golden hour produces soft light that flatters both furniture and environment. Midday sun, on the other hand, creates harsh shadows and can wash out details. Seasons add another layer of magic, lavender in July, rich leaves in October, or a crisp frost in January.

The practical side matters too. Outdoor shoots need locations with space for delivery vehicles, easy access for bulky pieces, and, often, permissions for setup. A spacious garden, large patio, or lakeside deck can all create perfect backdrops for outdoor living ranges.

Logistics of a Professional Furniture Shoot

Behind every perfect image is a carefully planned shoot.

• Access: Furniture is bulky. Choose locations with wide access points, large driveways, or even ground-floor entry to avoid delays.

• Transport: Secure vans or lorries with blankets and straps to keep pieces safe en route.

• Assembly: Build furniture on-site if needed, ensuring enough time for setup.

• Crew: A shoot may require stylists, lighting technicians, and runners. Factor in space for them too.

• Editing Workflow: Plan for consistent post-production. Keep angles and ratios uniform across product lines.

Logistics aren’t glamorous, but they can make or break a smooth shoot day.

The Perfect Blend of Indoor and Outdoor Furniture Photography

The strongest campaigns often use both. Indoor setups give clarity and control. Outdoor spaces bring mood and lifestyle context. Together, they offer variety, keeping galleries engaging and helping buyers visualise both the product and the lifestyle it supports.

Shoot Furniture with Style in the West Midlands

If you’re looking for a backdrop that combines elegance with practicality, The Location House in Solihull, West Midlands is designed for shoots like these. Our 19th-century country house offers versatile indoor spaces and expansive outdoor gardens, perfect for both lifestyle storytelling and clean product visuals. 

With easy access to Birmingham and the M42, wide entry points for larger items, and private, exclusive use, we make the logistics effortless so you can focus on the creative.

Ready to plan your next furniture photoshoot? Book The Location House today and elevate your campaign with a setting that inspires.