Photograph Car Interiors Like a Pro

I’ve talked about shooting interior photos in little pieces, throughout a number of videos, but today I’m going to expand on this subject specifically, and compile all my car interior photography tips into once place.

This is far more complex than can be put into a catchy, numbered list of tips, there are just a lot of variables. So instead of a simple listicle, I’ve divided this into four categories:

SETTING: that’s your location, surroundings, time of day.
CAR: things you can do and be aware of with your car subject that will make your life easier
CAMERA: lenses and basic settings for your camera
SHOOTING TECHNIQUE: actually pointing the camera and taking the photo

If you have the first three sorted out, you’ll have a much easier time with that last critical step.

Many thanks to the following people for help with filming and providing cars!

0:00 Intro
1:16 Setting
2:07 Car
5:50 Camera settings
7:31 Lens settings
8:15 Shooting
10:08 Bonus: using flash
14:09 Closing
14:48 Outro

Camera equipment shown in this video (commissions earned):

[byronjohnson]

I'M LEARNING ALOT FROM THIS ANALYTICAL APPROACH TO THE WORK. I'M HIGHLY IMPRESSED. I WILL DEFINITELY IMPLEMENT THESE POWERFUL TACTICS.

[tingeltangel]

One of the best car interior photography videos on youtube!

[carclubmk]

Excellent advice! Thanks!
I'd just add another simple thing - make sure the steering wheel is straight, but also make sure all the AC vents are straight as well.

[fahrersicht]

A few more tips:
1. Keep it clean: Check for bits and pieces, like coins, pens etc. before shooting.
2. Seats: Check driver and passenger seats are in equal position, especially adjustable headrests.
3. Infotainment/Navigation: In map view try to max zoom out to satellite view of Earth. Or alternative a drive mode settings page.
4. Air con system: Set same temperature for left/right seat.

[jasongastelum]

Best explanation on YouTube about how to use a flash!

[eoslove]

So comprehensive! Thank you for the time and energy to produce this most useful tutorial for a small and unique photo niche community.

[themjkelley]

These are great tips! I shoot cars for a living, and really appreciate the permission to increase iso on interiors! Also, I’ve wanted to incorporate flash into more of my shots, but often have to move fast on these shoots so don’t have time to make exterior composites for single shots. So appreciate how you utilize flash for some of the wider interior captures!

[davidkouris]

Bravo! I can't wait to practice with the off camera flash while shooting through the opposite window...duh! I never would have thought of that. I love my Godox flashes and accessories! I believe two of your best points are regarding the seats/interior and dashboard! Every picture tells a Story! Thanks for breaking it down for us "Slower Than Normal" Folks!

[gregkolanowski]

Cars are not something I've shot a lot, or really pursued, but I really enjoyed seeing your process. Your work is great. And I especially love the comment about Terry Richardson! Cheers!

[cmhwilder]

Most dealerships have white paper floor mats that are your best friend. I use them as Reflectors and shades.

[TimFilmsCars]

I'm trying to level up a few things in my car shoot game, this is very helpful! Thanks. Another tip is to check for phone mounts. Sometimes they're easy to overlook if they're on vents or something.

Nice to see you again! Great video as always:)

[Bruce_Mazi]

Man your videos are definitely really well done and informative with the right amount of balance for beginners and professionals who might be coming in from a different disciple. For me coming from Fashion and portrait photography were off camera flash is king this definitely helped me realise lighting an interior uses the same principles youd use for lighting garments

[JuanManuelTastzian]

This was terrific, Kevin. I had the video open for days waiting for the perfect time to sit through it all. I am very excited to put these in practice! Thanks for sharing.

[nestofrmnics]

Couldn't wait for new content, new inspiration. Thanks as always!

[SniperShot]

Fantastic video, relearned some thing's i'd forgotten!

[Fantom-]

Thank you for making these videos, for the explanations, and the bonus tips. They are straightforward, educational, and inspiring. Keep up the good work and the quality!

P.S. I had a car shoot a few days ago and definitely would have benefited from watching these beforehand!

[ИгорьСемёнов-фп]

Thank you SO MUCH
I have a lot of mistakes, but now, I really know what I need to do

[derechte]

Really good and professional Video I thought it would be one of these videos that dont express new informations but every tipp in this one was helpful and logically.keep it up❤

[smaustinify]

Thank you for this video, I'm getting interested in car photography and this video is perfect!