Paweł Maj, the founder of Wrocław’s Szerokąty interior photography studio, started his adventure with photography thanks to his first analogue camera that he received as a gift, a SLR camera that he bought with the money he had saved, his independent experiments and taking part in workshops. Since 2018, the photographer has been turning his long-standing passion into professional interior design sessions, drawing on the experience he has gained working in the residential construction industry. His portfolio includes a wide range of projects, from modern apartments to commercial spaces such as the Arche Group’s hotel in a historic monastery.
Early days as a photographer – finding his own way
Founded in 2018, the Szerokąty interior photography studio is the result of Paweł Maj’s long-standing passion. When he was holding his first camera 25 years ago, the photographer never imagined that he would one day be doing professional interior photography. At first, he was fascinated by documentaries and street photography. The camera – preferably with a light 35 mm lens – is still his favourite accessory on all his travels.
Striving for personal development – exchanging experiences and inspiration
For architects and designers to be offered a high standard of service, Paweł Maj is constantly developing his skills. Conversations and the exchange of experiences with other interior photographers provide him with knowledge and motivation. He also seeks inspiration by observing other artists abroad and in Poland. Among those he particularly admires, he mentions Tom Kurk and Stan Zajączkowski. Nevertheless, in his work, he makes an effort to maintain his own style in order to perfect his own approach.
What is your process for preparing for an interior photo shoot? Are there any key steps that you always take?
Before the session, I like to see the project in visualisations. This helps me prepare for the job and gets my imagination going, as I start planning the initial shots. I enquire about the windows and the amount of sunlight that enters the rooms. Together with the architect, I also discuss their expectations regarding the finished photos. I choose the ratio of horizontal to vertical images. And I make sure that we have enough time to complete the job.
What is the importance of natural light in interior photography for you? How do you deal with situations where there is insufficient light?
Natural light plays a crucial role here. Personally, I prefer sessions on cloudy days. The light is softer, easier to control and allows for more consistent results. For this reason, I think that autumn and winter are better times for interior photos than the height of summer, although unfortunately you have to reckon with the fact that there is not much daylight during those seasons.
When the interior is dark, I use flash light. I then try to soften it by deflecting it off large white surfaces such as walls. Net curtains are also great tools for this purpose, because I can mimic natural light from outside the window.
Do you prefer to photograph interiors with a particular décor or style, or do you adapt to different aesthetics?
I tend to adapt to the aesthetics of the interior I am about to work on. Although I admit that I find rustic and boho styles the most enjoyable to photograph. On the other hand, I am not keen on glamour style.
Do you have your favourite gear or piece of kit that you always take to your interior design shoots?
I love everything in my photography backpack.
How do you work with architects, interior designers or property owners to capture their vision in photographs?
I always talk to the architect before the session about the essential elements of the interior finish and important zones from a design point of view. We establish whether a person prefers dark or light shots. Sometimes, we also exchange inspiration found on the internet.
What advice would you have for architects or interior designers who are planning to start working with an interior photographer?
Make arrangements with your client at the beginning of the project (e.g. in the contract) that a professional photo shoot will take place at the end of the project. The investor must also be made aware that such a session takes several hours. And make sure you tidy up and organise the space for the photo shoot.
