Plan Phase|Step 1 of 37
Take Before Photos
Before you change anything, capture your current lighting. These photos reveal problems you've gotten used to and become your benchmark for improvement.
Time Required
30-45 minutes
Cost
$0
Difficulty
Easy
What to Photograph
Each Room Overall
Wide shot from doorway showing the entire space. This reveals the overall light level and distribution.
Dark Corners and Problem Areas
Specifically capture areas that feel too dark or poorly lit. These are your priority zones.
Current Fixtures (Close-ups)
Document existing fixtures. Note the style, condition, and how they look when lit.
Task Areas
Kitchen counters, bathroom vanity, reading spots. Show shadows and glare issues.
Photography Tips
- Shoot at night: Natural light masks lighting problems. Wait until dark.
- Turn on all lights: Every fixture and lamp you normally use. Normal conditions.
- Same settings: Keep phone on auto or same manual settings for fair comparison.
- Note the time: Take photos at the time you typically use each room.
- Create a folder: Name it "Lighting Before" with date. You'll want these later.
Pro Tips
- •Include yourself in photos: Shows how light falls on people, reveals unflattering angles.
- •Note your pain points: While photographing, jot down what bothers you most.
- •Check color: Does light look yellowish, bluish, or uneven? Note this.
- •Video option: A quick walkthrough video can capture issues photos miss.