Clear the counters
Remove almost everything: dish racks, sponges, cleaning products, magnets and paperwork on the fridge, small appliances you do not need. Leave one or two simple accents, such as a bowl of fruit or a plant, so the kitchen still feels lived in.
The angles that work
- From the room entrance or a corner: a two-point view that shows the full run of cabinets and the island.
- Across the island: shows the working side of the kitchen and how it connects to dining or living space.
- One detail shot: a range, a feature splashback or a pendant light, if it is a selling point.
Camera height and lens
Lower the camera to just above counter height so the worktops read as surfaces, not thin lines. Keep the camera level so the cabinets stay vertical. A 16 to 24 mm lens (full-frame equivalent) is usually enough.
Light and reflections
- Turn on the under-cabinet and pendant lights; they show the kitchen works and add warmth.
- Stainless steel, glass fronts and glossy tiles reflect everything. Check for your own reflection and the flash before you shoot.
- Bracket the exposures or shoot a flash frame; kitchens often combine a bright window with dark lower cabinets.
Key takeaways
- Clear the counters and leave one or two accents.
- Shoot from a corner and across the island.
- Keep the camera just above counter height.
- Watch reflections in steel and glossy surfaces.
Common questions
What is the best angle for kitchen photos?
A corner or doorway view that shows the full run of cabinets and the island, taken at just above counter height. Add a second angle across the island to show how the kitchen connects to the living space.
Should kitchen lights be on in listing photos?
Yes. Pendant and under-cabinet lights show that the fittings work and add warmth. Bracket the exposures so the lights do not blow out.
How do I avoid reflections in stainless steel appliances?
Shoot at a slight angle to the appliance, check the frame for your reflection before firing, and bounce the flash away from glossy surfaces. Small reflections can be removed in editing.
