Lake with Dock Made of Deckorators Composite Decking in the Fall

Dog Laying on Deck Made of Deckorators Composite Deck

Close-up of Deckorators Composite Deck with Inlay and Stone Patio

Simple Tips to Showcase Your Best Work

Taking Great Project Photos

Use this guide to capture compelling photos that match the quality of your craftsmanship. Improve your marketing by learning these simple and effective photo tips. They will highlight your projects and attract new clients easily.

Download the Photography Guide

Steps by Front Door Made with Deckorators Composite Decking

Mastering Your Equipment

Know Your Camera

Whether you use a DSLR or a smartphone, knowing your camera settings can improve your photos. Settings like brightness, focus, and zoom are important for better quality. A DSLR with a zoom lens is ideal, but modern phones work well with some practice. Clean your lens before each session, and follow local drone regulations.

Composing Your Image

Think Beyond Eye Level

Think beyond eye level—crouch low for details or use a ladder for a different perspective. Choose your angle based on what you want to highlight, like lighting, inlays, traction, or the surrounding view.

Close-up of Patio Steps Made with Deckorators Composite Decking

Farmhouse Cottage Designed by Jean Stouffer with Front Porch Made of Deckorators Composite Deck

Composing Your Image

Lines, Lines, Lines

Use the deck’s natural lines to guide the viewer’s eye—shoot top-down or along the boards for strong angles. This works well for inlays, built-in benches, and standout stairs.

Close-up of Composite Deck with Dark Slate and Voyage Tundra Inlay by Deckorators

Close-up of Woman Holding Wine Glass on Deckorators Composite Deck

Flowers in Background of Deckorators Composite Deck and Contemporary Aluminum Cable Rail

Composing Your Image

Add Depth to Your Image

Add depth by framing shots with foreground elements and avoiding flat angles toward the house. This helps show the space and scale while drawing attention to key features—and can even hide distractions. Use shallow depth of field when possible for a more professional look.

Close-up of Corner of Composite Deck with Couch

Deckorators Aluminum Black Cable Rail and Composite Deck

House with Dark Blue Shake Siding and Couch on Deck Made with Deckorators Composite Decking

Lighting Considerations

Let the Deck Shine

Choose the time of day that best flatters the deck—morning light, sunset glow, or after dark for built-in lighting. Avoid midday when shadows are harsh, especially for drone shots. Once the light is right, move quickly. Try creative sun placement for added visual interest.

Covered Deck with Porch Swing and Deckorators Composite Deck

Close-up of Kid's Feet on Deckorators Composite Deck

Setting the Scene

Tell a Story with an Image

Tell a story with your photo—show how the deck adds to real life. Use people, props, or water to highlight features like traction or family use. Bring the space to life.

Couple Eating Dinner on Deckorators Composite Deck with String Lights

Kid's Eating Popsicle on Deckorators Composite Deck

Modern Farmhouse Lakehouse with Deckorators Composite Deck Surrounding it

Setting the Scene

Details Matter

Start with a clean space—remove tools, bags, or anything distracting. If possible, wait until landscaping has recovered. Shoot wide and drone shots first, then move in to avoid footprints or dirt on the deck.

Patio Surrounded by Deck Made with Deckorators Composite Decking and Cable Rail

Composite Deck Off of House with Dark Blue Siding and Pool

Editing and Posting

Create with Intention

Plan ahead for how you'll use your photos—portrait for social, landscape for web or print. Shoot wide so you can crop later as needed. Use a photo editor to fix uneven lighting and create a more natural look.

Questions or want to submit photos?