IIn the world of interior design, “before” photos are a powerful tool to showcase our work. There’s something undeniably impactful about seeing a space’s transformation, from an outdated or cluttered area to a beautifully styled room. But as our industry evolves, so does our understanding of how sharing “before” photos may affect clients. Could posting these images unintentionally embarrass or insult them? Are we crossing a line when we showcase these raw, personal glimpses?
This question made me rethink the impact of sharing “before” photos on clients. While it’s exciting to highlight our ability to completely reimagine a space, there’s also a layer of vulnerability in the process. After all, spaces often reflect our clients’ lives, habits, and personal histories. If I imagine myself hiring a designer to remodel my kitchen, would I feel okay seeing the old space online as a “shocking transformation”? There’s a chance it could feel embarrassing—or even a bit like a betrayal—if not handled with care.
With this in mind, let’s explore how we can share “before” photos responsibly, respecting client sensitivity while still showcasing the transformations that define our work.
Why “Before” Photos Matter in Interior Design Transformations
As designers, we know that the most compelling way to show our impact is through “before” and “after” photos. These comparisons bring our process to life, illustrating the skill and creativity that went into reimagining the space. For many potential clients, seeing where a project started helps them understand the depth of our work and feel inspired about the possibilities in their own homes.
But here’s the key: a “before” photo shouldn’t just highlight our design expertise—it should also reflect respect for the client and the journey they’ve entrusted us to take with them.
Benefits of Sharing Before Photos in Interior Design
“Before” photos can be incredibly impactful for marketing and business growth. They help potential clients visualize the scope of transformation possible and highlight a designer’s ability to bring a new vision to life. But for these images to be successful in representing your work, it’s essential that they are shared with the right intentions and sensitivity.
Respectful Approaches to Sharing Before Photos
If you decide that sharing “before” photos is essential for showcasing your work, there are a few mindful approaches you can take to balance client sensitivity with the visual appeal of a transformation story.
Getting Client Permission to Share Before Photos
The best way to ensure a client feels comfortable with a “before” photo is to ask directly. While many design contracts have clauses that cover photography rights, it’s worth going the extra step to confirm that the client is okay with sharing these more personal glimpses. Some clients may feel excited to display their “before” photos as a testament to the transformation, while others may prefer that only the “after” photos are shown.
A simple conversation can often reveal their comfort level and help set expectations. If the client has reservations, consider skipping the “before” photo or selecting a less personal angle of the space.
Choosing the Right Before Photos to Share
Some rooms are inherently more personal than others. Spaces like bedrooms, closets, and bathrooms may feel especially intimate, whereas common areas like living rooms and kitchens are less likely to stir strong feelings. If a client’s concerns are focused on privacy, consider using only “before” photos of spaces that feel less personal or cluttered.
For example, capturing a “before” shot of a kitchen might feel less invasive than a close-up of a master bedroom with personal items on display. You could also use “before” photos taken during an initial consultation, when the space might have been staged or depersonalized.
Maintaining Anonymity in Before Photos
Anonymity is crucial when sharing any type of “before” photo. Avoid showing any identifiable details like family photos, personal items, or visible addresses. If there’s anything that could hint at the client’s identity, remove it before taking the shot. This practice not only respects the client’s privacy but also keeps the focus on the transformation itself rather than the people behind it.
Maintaining anonymity can also make clients feel more at ease if they’re worried about friends or colleagues recognizing their “before” photos online.
Keeping Captions Respectful and Positive
Captions are a powerful tool for shaping how a transformation is perceived. Instead of framing the “before” state as a problem, focus on the changes and improvements without diminishing the original space. A caption like “From cozy to contemporary” or “A bright, refreshing update” respects the original space without casting it in a negative light.
If you’re highlighting challenges, avoid anything that might sound critical or disparaging. Compassion and tact can go a long way in keeping the client’s experience positive, especially when their friends or family may be reading along.
When Before Photos May Not Be Appropriate for Client Sensitivity
Sometimes, even with the best intentions, a “before” photo just isn’t the right choice. There may be clients who feel emotionally connected to their “before” spaces or who simply prefer not to share personal photos at all. Respecting these boundaries is essential to maintaining a trusting relationship and ensuring the client feels valued and respected throughout the process.
In these cases, consider alternative ways to showcase your work. Perhaps you could focus on the design goals and process without using visuals of the “before” state. Descriptive storytelling can be an effective substitute, painting a picture of the original space through words while highlighting the client’s aspirations and your design vision.Insights from the Community
Insights from the Community
The Interior Design Community shared some thoughtful experiences and perspectives on the “before” photo debate:
- @amyvermillioninteriors: “I post a ton of before and afters. But I’m always thoughtful about captions and photos. One client, who bought the home, kindly asked me to be careful with the wording because the previous homeowner follows me on IG! Compassion goes a long way.”
- @zuhause_interiors: “I recently had a client send me her own cleaned-up ‘before’ photos of her bathroom for me to use instead of mine. She wanted control over what was shared and still loved the transformation. It’s all about working with the client’s comfort.”
- @waldron_designs: “Every one of our clients has been thrilled and asks for a before/after book. They love showing friends the ‘before’ shots as a reminder of the transformation. Just keep the captions positive!”
Striking the Right Balance: Showcasing Your Work While Respecting Client Boundaries
In a field where our success relies heavily on trust and rapport, it’s essential to stay sensitive to our clients’ comfort levels. While “before” photos can be an effective way to highlight our work, they should never come at the expense of a client’s sense of privacy or respect.
By considering each client’s unique preferences and thoughtfully framing our approach, we can showcase the power of transformation without overstepping. Ultimately, balancing respect with creativity is a win-win: clients feel respected, and our work shines through as both beautiful and professional.
What are your thoughts? Have you found other ways to respectfully highlight transformations without using “before” photos? Let’s keep this conversation going and support each other in creating both inspiring and respectful content.