Photography Tips: How to Make Any Room Look Bigger in Listings

When it comes to real estate marketing, photography can make or break a buyer’s first impression. Small, dark, or cluttered rooms can quickly turn potential buyers away—long before they ever book a showing. The good news? With the right photography techniques, any room can look brighter, more spacious, and more inviting.

At The Smallbone Team, we know that beautiful listing photos are one of the most powerful tools to attract qualified buyers. Here are our top photography tips to maximize space and make every room look bigger in your real estate listings.

Declutter and Simplify the Space

A clean, minimal room instantly appears larger. Before photographing:

• Remove excess furniture

• Clear countertops

• Hide cords, personal items, and bulky décor

• Leave only essential, visually light pieces

The goal is to create negative space, allowing the room’s structure—not the objects—to shine.

Use Mirrors to Expand the Room

Mirrors reflect both light and surroundings, doubling the sense of space. Place them:

• Opposite a window to bounce natural light

• On larger walls to visually widen narrow rooms

• Behind small furniture pieces to create depth

Even a single mirror can transform a photo by adding dimension.

Take Advantage of Natural Light

Natural light is your best friend in photography—especially in tight spaces. Shoot when the room is brightest:

• Open blinds and curtains

• Turn off harsh overhead lights

• Use lamps for soft, indirect light if needed

Bright rooms appear more open, airy, and welcoming.

Stick to Light, Neutral Colours

Light-coloured walls and décor photograph larger and more open. If the room has dark or bold walls, consider:

• Using softer lighting

• Highlighting lighter furnishings

• Adjusting exposure in editing to brighten tones

Spaces with consistent, neutral palettes feel clean and expansive.

Arrange Furniture to Show Flow

The right furniture layout can make small rooms look more functional.

Try:

• Centring furniture to create walkways

• Choosing slender pieces rather than bulky items

• Leaving open spaces near doors and windows

Rooms that look easy to navigate will feel larger in photos.

Create a Festive Atmosphere Without Overcrowding Your Space

Decorating for the holidays doesn’t mean cluttering every surface. Focus on key areas like the entryway, living room, and dining area. Use soft lighting, seasonal scents, and subtle holiday décor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that welcomes guests the moment they walk in.

Declutter Before Decorating

Before putting up decorations, declutter the areas where guests will spend the most time. A clean, organized home instantly feels more inviting and makes your decorations stand out. This also helps if your home is on the market, as a tidy space appeals to potential buyers.

Plan a Smart Layout for Guests

Think about traffic flow in your home. Arrange furniture to allow guests to mingle without feeling cramped. Consider setting up multiple “stations” for drinks, appetizers, and desserts so people can move freely and enjoy themselves.

Prep Ahead with a Holiday Menu

Minimize stress by planning your menu in advance. Opt for dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, or create a potluck-style gathering where guests contribute. This frees you up to enjoy your own party and reduces last-minute cooking chaos.

Make Every Room Inviting

Guests will wander throughout your home, so make each space cozy. Add seasonal touches like throw blankets, festive pillows, and a small centerpiece on tables. Even bathrooms deserve a hint of holiday charm — a scented candle or mini wreath can go a long way.

Keep the Cleanup Simple

Hosting can be stressful, but setting up designated trash and recycling bins and using dishwasher-friendly serveware will make the post-party cleanup much easier. Label bins clearly so guests can help themselves.

Add Personal Touches

Whether it’s a handwritten place card, a holiday playlist, or a small gift for each guest, personal touches show care and make your home feel extra welcoming. These details create memories that guests will remember long after the holidays.

Final Thoughts from the Sandy Smallbone Team

Hosting during the holidays should be joyful, not stressful. By following these holiday hosting hacks, homeowners can create a festive, comfortable environment that impresses guests and leaves everyone in the holiday spirit.