Best Lenses for Interior Photography

If you are entering the world of interior photography – whether for real estate or general interior design, a high-quality lens is a must. Preferably a wide-angle lens, with great low-light capabilities.

There is a large selection of suitable lenses available, and to help narrow your choices, we have selected 11 of the best lenses for interior photography. This includes Canon, Nikon, Sony, and third-party options.

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Our Top Picks for Every Camera Model

Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM
Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM
A versatile wide-angle lens with a durable build quality
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED
A high-quality and inexpensive option for Nikon cameras
Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS
Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS
Benefitting from Zeiss glass for superior optical performance
Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 DI VC USD G2
Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 DI VC USD G2
An excellent third-party choice and fantastic sharpness
Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM | Art
Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM | Art
A relatively cheap third-party lens that delivers fantastic low-light shots

Best Lenses for Interior Photography – Canon

Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM

Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM
Best EF lens for interior photography

This lens offers stunning quality and build design, with a versatile focal distance.

Pros
Fantastic viewing angles
Superior lens element construction
Durable build quality
Cons
Relatively expensive
  • Aperture Range – f4 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – USM
  • Image Stabilization – Yes
  • Weight – 615g / 1.355lbs
  • Dimensions – 82.6×112.8mm / 32.51×44.40 inches

Our top pick for Canon is the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM. There is an f/2.8L version available, but you should not need an f/2.8 aperture for interior photography, so the f/4L variant is more than adequate. This L-series lens has a fantastic build quality and is incredibly durable if you expect to travel to multiple locations in a day.

Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L is USM Lens - 9518B002, Black
Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L is USM Lens – 9518B002, Black (Image from Amazon)

It also has a superior lens construction with aspheric and ED elements. These elements reduce distortions and will ensure that your real estate photos are sharp from corner to corner. The maximum aperture of f/4 also offers greater control, should you need it when working in poor interior lighting conditions.

To create detailed shots that emphasize the space of the interiors, you will find the 16mm-35mm focal distance works perfectly. At 16mm you can capture wide-angle shots so that smaller rooms do not look too narrow.

Related Post: Interior Photography Tips

Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM

Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM
A great wide-angle lens for a great price

This is a great budget option and a well-rounded prime lens.

Pros
A fantastic budget option
Excellent lens construction
Lightweight and portable
Cons
Not as sharp as the EF 16-35mm
  • Aperture Range – f/2.8 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – USM
  • Image Stabilization – Yes
  • Weight – 280g / 0.617lbs
  • Dimensions – 68.4×55.7mm / 26.92×21.92 inches

If you want a budget option for interior photography, the Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM remains a great choice. This lens is old, but it offers fantastic image quality and clarity, for less than $600. 24mm is an ideal focal distance for interior photography and taking wide-angle shots of rooms.

It also has a full-time manual focus mode, which allows for greater control in interior scenarios when you are set up with a tripod and don’t need AF functionality. The lens construction has aspherical elements and a range of advanced coatings. These help reduce distortions and improve color, clarity, and sharpness. As a result, you can create professional-grade interior shots that are bold and detailed.

Canon EF24mm f/2.8 is USM Lens
Canon EF24mm f/2.8 is USM Lens (Image from Amazon)

This lens is a lightweight and compact lens, which is great because carrying bulky gear to different real estate shots can be tricky. This lens can offset some trouble.

Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM

Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
Best lens for EOS M cameras

This is a great kit lens for EOS M cameras and easy to use for interior photography.

Pros
Versatile focal range
A fantastic portable lens
Incredibly inexpensive
Cons
Not as high quality as EF lenses
  • Aperture Range – f/3.5 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – STM
  • Image Stabilization – Yes
  • Weight – 130g / 0.286lbs
  • Dimensions – 60.9×44.5mm / 23.97×17.51 inches

EOS M camera owners have a decent choice when it comes to the best lenses for interior photography. However, the best option is the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM. This compact, lightweight lens is versatile and another top budget option. On cropped-sensor mirrorless cameras like the EOS M50, the 15-45mm translates to 24-70mm which is perfect for interior photography.

Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 Image Stabilization STM Zoom Lens Black
Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 Image Stabilization STM Zoom Lens Black (Image from Amazon)

Due to its small design (with the retractable feature), it could make the perfect choice for those quick, unexpected sessions where you do not have time to assemble a huge array of equipment. Although the quality may not compare to EF lenses, it can produce sharp images with minimal softening, even in low-light situations.

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM
Best RF lens for interior photography

For EOS R cameras, this lens offers superior image quality and sharpness.

Pros
Versatile for tripod, or handheld usage
Fantastic viewing angle for great detail
Superior lens construction for ultimate quality
Cons
Relatively expensive
  • Aperture Range – f/2.8 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – USM
  • Image Stabilization – Yes
  • Weight – 840g / 1.851lbs
  • Dimensions – 88.5mm / 34.84 inches

The Canon RF lens mount series is expanding and already includes some fantastic options. For interior photography, the Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM is the best choice, however. Similar to the EF version, this lens has a fantastic focal range that will allow you to capture amazing detail and depth in your real estate photos.

If you do not have a tripod handy for on-the-fly shoots, you can still shoot handheld quality photos easily thanks to the built-in image stabilization. This can correct for up to 5 stops of camera shake.

Canon Rf 15-35mm F2.8 L is USM
Canon Rf 15-35mm F2.8 L is USM (Image from Amazon)

For ease of use, we also love the programmable control ring. When shooting in difficult lighting situations, you can use this ring to quickly adjust the exposure brackets, for example. The superior lens construction when combined with a powerful camera like the EOS R5 means that your interior shots will look exceptional.

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Best Lenses for Interior Photography – Nikon

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED
One of the best budget options for Nikon FX

This is a brilliant budget option for Nikon FX cameras.

Pros
High-quality lens coatings to reduce distortions
Inexpensive
Portable and compact
Cons
Some could find 35mm too narrow
  • Aperture Range – f/1.8 – f/16
  • Autofocus System – SWM
  • Image Stabilization – No
  • Weight – 305g / 0.672lbs
  • Dimensions – 72×71.5mm / 28.34×28.14 inches

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED is a solid prime lens for interior photography for Nikon FX cameras. At 35mm, you still have great detail and depth for your interior photography photos and can still enhance the perceived space of small areas.

If you are just starting out in this type of photography, this is a good budget option and still provides fantastic image quality. Your interior shots will look sharp, have minimal softening, and minimal distortions. Also, the lens has aspheric and ED elements, which also help reduce adverse flare effects from strange interior lighting conditions.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Image from Amazon)

The lens coatings also help boost color, clarity, and contrast – your real estate photos will pop! For less than $400, you get a high-performance lens that is also easy to carry.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED
Best Nikon lens for interior photography

This is a well-rounded lens with excellent features for interior photography.

Pros
Has a versatile focal range for interiors
Lightweight and easy to carry
Quality lens construction for detailed images
Cons
Can have softening at the photo corners
  • Aperture Range – f/3.5 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – SWM
  • Image Stabilization – No
  • Weight – 385g / 0.848lbs
  • Dimensions – 83x95mm / 32.67×37.40 inches

If you feel that 35mm is too limiting for interior photography, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED offers more versatility. This compact lens allows you to shoot interior photos in greater detail at 18mm so you can really show off the space and light of the rooms.

We also like the advanced construction of this lens. It has three aspherical elements which reduce aberrations. Also, it has two ED elements that improve sharpness and color correction. Together, these features mean you can easily produce professional real estate and interior photos with brilliant details.

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Image from Amazon)

Whilst this lens is a little more expensive than the 35mm prime, it is still a good budget option for less than $600.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3
Best Z lens

For Nikon Z cameras, this is a great portable option.

Pros
A great budget option
Versatile focal range for different compositions
Lightweight and compact
Cons
Not as high quality as some other Z lenses
  • Aperture Range – f/4 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – STM
  • Image Stabilization – No
  • Weight – 195g / 0.429lbs
  • Dimensions – 73.5x51mm / 28.93×20.07 inches

For Nikon Z cameras, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is a relatively new choice but makes a great option for interior photography. Most Nikon Z lenses are expensive, but this could be classed as a budget option for less than $450.

It has a stylish design and looks fantastic, but it is also highly functional as one of the best lenses for interior photography. The 24-50mm focal range offers good versatility and means you can capture rooms and interiors in various compositional styles.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-50mm | Compact mid-range zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-50mm | Compact mid-range zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model (Image from Amazon)

Also, it features a fantastic lens construction that will result in sharp images with great clarity and contrast. In low-light situations, this lens also performs well, and the f/4-6.3 maximum aperture range will give you adequate control over your interior shots.

Best Lenses for Interior Photography – Sony

Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS

Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS
Best Sony lens with Zeiss glass

This lens features excellent glass quality and superior image clarity and colors

Pros
Has superior Zeiss glass elements
A durable design that is easy to use
Corner-to-corner image sharpness
Cons
Relatively expensive
  • Aperture Range – f/4 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – AF
  • Image Stabilization – Yes
  • Weight – 518g / 1.141lbs
  • Dimensions – 78×98.5mm / 30.70×38.77 inches

For Sony DSLR owners, the Sony 16-35mm Vario-Tessar T FE F4 ZA OSS represents the ultimate in quality. This zoom lens features Zeiss class and coatings which greatly boost image quality, whilst also reducing flare and ghosting. If you want professional interior shots, this is the way to go.

It also has a superior design that features dust and moisture-resistant glass. This means you should not have to spend time cleaning the lens between shots. Also, it has a range of lens elements that will make your interiors pop with excellent colors and contrast.

Sony 16-35mm Vario-Tessar T FE F4 ZA OSS E-Mount Lens
Sony 16-35mm Vario-Tessar T FE F4 ZA OSS E-Mount Lens (Image from Amazon)

You can expect corner-to-corner sharpness, and this lens also performs well in poor lighting conditions thanks to the constant f/4 aperture.

Sony FE 12-25mm f/4 G

Sony FE 12-25mm f/4 G
A multi-zoom lens with a great constant apterture

This is a versatile wide-angle zoom lens for Sony E-mount cameras.

Pros
Aspherical and ED elements for excellent quality
A programmable focus hold button for convenience
Superior, durable build quality
Cons
Incredibly expensive
  • Aperture Range – f/4 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – DDSSM
  • Image Stabilization – No
  • Weight – 565g / 1.245lbs
  • Dimensions – 87×117.4mm / 34.25×46.22 inches

If you want to go a step higher than the Vario-Tessar, you can opt for the Sony FE 12-24mm F4 G. This G-series lens has a superb build quality and offers some of the best quality available for interior photography. It is a high-performance lens built for professional usage.

Four aspherical lens elements combine to suppress any type of distortion and aberrations. Also, nanocoatings ensure minimal lens flare and ghosting. Essentially, you can create perfect interior photos with this lens.

Sony - FE 12-24mm F4 G Wide-Angle Zoom Lens (SEL1224G),Black
Sony – FE 12-24mm F4 G Wide-Angle Zoom Lens (SEL1224G),Black (Image from Amazon)

If you need to change exposure settings for difficult lighting situations, you can also make use of the focus hold button or even program this button for exposure compensation to make your interior photos easier to compose.

Best Lenses for Interior Photography – Third-Party

Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 DI VC USD G2

Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 DI VC USD G2
Best third-party option

This Super Performance lens offers a great third-party alternative.

Pros
A versatile 15-30mm focal range
Excellent lens construction
Durable and moisture-resistant
Cons
Quite heavy and bulky
  • Aperture Range – f/2.8 – f/22
  • Autofocus System – USD
  • Image Stabilization – Yes
  • Weight – 1100g / 2.425lbs
  • Dimensions – 98.4x145mm / 38.74×57.08 inches

The Tamron Super Performance range of lenses offers amazing quality, and the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 DI VC USD G2 is no exception. This third-party lens has a range of lens elements and coatings to boost image quality, contrast, and colors – your interior photos will look fantastic.

Tamron SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 for Canon Digital SLR Camera (Tamron 6 Year Limited USA Warranty)
Tamron SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 for Canon Digital SLR Camera (Tamron 6 Year Limited USA Warranty) (Image from Amazon)

At 15-30mm, this is also a versatile lens that can cope with multiple types of interiors. Whether you need an ultra-wide-angle to shoot a tight bathroom, for example, or something narrower to focus on a particular interior detail.

We also like that this Tamron SP lens is available for Nikon, Canon, and Sony cameras.

Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art

Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art
Another top-range third-party alternative

This Sigma Art lens has a great build quality and fantastic features for interior photography.

Pros
A versatile 15-30mm focal range
Excellent lens construction
Durable and moisture-resistant
Cons
Quite heavy and bulky
  • Aperture Range – f/2.8 – f/16
  • Autofocus System – HSM
  • Image Stabilization – No
  • Weight – 810g / 1.785lbs
  • Dimensions – 98.4x145mm / 38.74×57.08 inches

The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art is another excellent third-party lens available for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sigma, and Sony cameras. The 18-35mm focal range will give you versatility in your interior shots whilst still providing the best wide-angle perspectives.

Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM Lens for Canon, Black (210101)
Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM Lens for Canon, Black (210101) (Image from Amazon)

It also has a lens element that features SLD and aspherical elements. These help reduce distortions like ghosting and flare, but also boost image quality and sharpness. As a result, you can be sure that your interior photos will look professional with no imperfections.

Which Interior Lens is Right for You?

We hope you have found this guide on the best lenses for interior photography useful. If you are starting out taking interior photos, budget lenses like the Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM, Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, and Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art are great choices. Alternatively, if you are looking for an upgrade and moving into professional territory, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM, Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM, Sony 16-35mm Vario-Tessar T FE F4 ZA OSS, and Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED offer greater quality for a higher price.

Interior Photography Lens FAQs

What is an ideal focal distance for interior photography?

Anything less than 35mm is ideal for interior photography. 35mm or wider should allow you to create a sense of depth, and capture the entire detail of rooms etc.

Is 50mm wide enough for interior photography?

50mm is erring on too narrow for interior photography. But this depends on what interior photos you wish to create. For professional real estate shots, for example, 50mm may not give the width and depth required.

Is a tripod essential for real estate and interior photography?

For the best results yes! Using a tripod eliminates motion blur and allows you to use lower ISO settings for minimal background noise.

How can you manage difficult interior lighting conditions?

One technique is to create bracketed shots with multiple exposures, and combine them in post-processing software afterwards to create HDR composite photos.


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About the Author
Paul Skidmore

A seasoned content creator at PhotoWorkout, Paul merges his love for traveling and photography to craft insightful articles. With a solid grasp of Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, he enjoys testing new photo software, apps, and gear. His background in web development further enriches his photography endeavors.
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