Let’s be real: most of us don’t have a professional camera crew or a stylist on call. But that doesn’t mean your Instagram feed has to look dull or basic. In fact, some of the best photos are taken right at home, with a bit of natural light, a few props, and some creativity.
Ever scroll through your feed and think, “How do these UK influencers always look so effortless?” The good news is you can recreate that same vibe without spending a tonne. Whether you’re just messing around for fun or trying to build a personal brand, a little setup goes a long way.
This guide is packed with celebrity-inspired DIY photoshoot ideas that you can pull off in your living room, bedroom, kitchen, or even your hallway. No fancy gear needed. Just your phone, good light, and a bit of patience.
Start With the Light
Let’s not make this harder than it needs to be. The best light? Natural daylight. And it’s free.
Find the brightest spot in your home. Most of the time, that’s near a big window during the morning or late afternoon. Harsh midday sun can create weird shadows, so softer light usually works better.
If it’s cloudy, even better. Cloudy days give that soft, diffused look that filters try to copy.
A trick? Face the window. Don’t put your back to it—unless you’re going for a moody silhouette (which can actually be super cool too, depending on the vibe).
Look at What You Already Have
You don’t need a special backdrop or a studio setup. Just look around your space.
- That corner where the wall paint is slightly peeling? Add a plant and boom, it’s artsy.
- Your kitchen with the morning sun hitting your coffee mug? Perfect.
- A stack of books and a cup of tea? Very influencer-core.
Celebrity-inspired DIY photoshoot ideas don’t always come from massive sets. Think about the kind of shots you see from people like Molly-Mae Hague or Maya Jama. A chair, some natural light, and a chilled pose. That’s it.
Use What’s in Your Wardrobe
You don’t need to buy new clothes just for a shoot. Play around with what you already have.
Try these:
- Oversized shirts (steal one from your dad or brother, if needed)
- Big jumpers with no pants (just be careful with camera angles!)
- All black everything for that sleek, editorial look
- A messy bun and sweatpants combo for that “I didn’t try but still look cute” vibe
Layer stuff. Add sunglasses indoors. Wear mismatched socks on purpose. You get the idea.
Sometimes, the more “thrown together” it looks, the more interesting the photo is. That’s the trick behind a lot of influencer-style shoots—they look casual, but there’s thought behind them.
Pose Like You’re Not Posing
You don’t have to stare directly at the camera every time. Try looking away. Laugh at nothing (it feels weird, but it works). Close your eyes and tilt your head slightly.
Use your hands. Touch your hair. Hold a book. Grab your coffee cup.
One of the easiest celebrity-inspired DIY photoshoot ideas is the “candid at home” look. It’s everywhere. Picture this: you sitting at the kitchen table with a messy bun, coffee in hand, mid-laugh. That could be your next profile pic.
Try These At-Home Shoot Setups (They Actually Work)
Here are some simple ideas you can try right now. You’ve probably seen UK influencers do versions of these on your feed.
The Bed Shot
Lie on your bed, white sheets, natural light coming through the window. Wear a cosy jumper or satin pyjamas. Maybe hold a book or a flower, or just stare out the window. Messy hair is a plus here.
Mirror Selfie (But Make It Interesting)
Find your biggest mirror. Clean it first! Wear something fun or unexpected—like a blazer and bike shorts or a dress with trainers. Add layers in the background: a candle, some books, maybe your dog.
In-the-Fridge Angle
Open the fridge. Place your phone inside. Set a timer. Now reach in like you’re grabbing something. It sounds silly but looks super cool. And people love this angle on Instagram.
Silhouette by the Window
Stand in front of a curtain or window during sunset. Shoot in profile. It gives drama. Add a glass of wine or a cup of tea if you want to tell a little story.
The Kitchen Counter Moment
Sit on the kitchen counter in joggers and a crop top. Bare feet. Hold a spoon, a bowl of cereal, or even just scroll on your phone. Looks relaxed. Feels natural. Still looks like it came from a magazine.
Editing (But Keep It Light)
You don’t have to edit your face into a completely different person. In fact, that over-edited look is slowly going out of style.
What works better is brightening things a little. Maybe adding a bit of warmth. Adjust the contrast just enough to make the photo pop.
Some UK influencers swear by:
- VSCO (for film-like tones)
- Lightroom mobile (great presets)
- Tezza app (lots of artsy filters)
- The built-in iPhone editing tool (honestly underrated)
Stick to one or two filters max. The more consistent your photos look, the more put-together your feed will seem.
Also Read – Creating a DIY Macrame Wall Hanging
Real People, Real Homes
There’s something charming about not being perfect.
It’s okay if your home isn’t spotless. It’s okay if your wall paint is chipped. That’s real life. And that’s exactly the kind of thing people are starting to enjoy more online.
That’s why celebrity inspired DIY photoshoot ideas are fun you can take what you see on Instagram and twist it to fit your life, not the other way around.
A Few Quick Tips Before You Start
- Set your phone timer. This frees up your hands and gives you more freedom to move.
- Shoot a bunch. Don’t settle on the first pic. Take 20. Maybe more. Then pick the best later.
- Clean your camera lens. It sounds obvious, but it makes a big difference.
- Shoot from slightly below or above, not straight on. It’s more flattering.
- Use a phone stand or stack some books. You don’t need a tripod.
Final Thoughts
Doing a DIY photoshoot isn’t just about the photos—it’s about giving yourself a little break from all the stress. It’s play. It’s creativity. It’s a way to see yourself in a new light—literally.
So next time you’ve got 30 minutes and feel like doing something fun, set up a little space, throw on your favourite outfit, and take some photos. Who knows? You might end up loving it more than you expected.
And don’t forget: the best celebrity-inspired DIY photoshoot ideas aren’t always about copying someone else. They’re about using what you’ve got to tell your own story—at home, on your own terms.
