Lloyd’s Woodworking · Hudson, Massachusetts
By Lloyd’s Woodworking Inc.
How Does a Furniture Photo Assessment Work?
DIRECT ANSWER:
Photos can help begin a furniture repair or restoration conversation by showing the complete piece, visible damage, construction details and overall condition. Photographs may help determine the appropriate next step, but they may not reveal every structural or finish issue or establish final scope or pricing.
YOU DON'T NEED TO LOAD THE TABLE INTO YOUR CAR TO ASK THE FIRST QUESTION.
START WITH PICTURES.
PHOTO 1 — THE COMPLETE PIECE
Stand far enough away to show the entire piece.
This provides context.
PHOTO 2 — THE DAMAGE
Take a clear close-up.
If the problem is structural, photograph it from multiple angles.
PHOTO 3 — THE OPPOSITE SIDE
A matching undamaged component can provide valuable reference information.
PHOTO 4 — BACK OR UNDERSIDE
Where safe and practical, these areas may reveal:
Construction
Labels
Previous repairs
Hardware
Joinery
PHOTO 5 — DETAILS
Photograph:
Veneer
Hardware
Carving
Labels
Signatures
Drawer construction
Decorative details
TELL US WHAT HAPPENED
Include:
What is wrong?
How did it happen?
When did you notice it?
Has anyone repaired it before?
What would you like the final result to be?
WHAT PHOTOS CANNOT ALWAYS TELL US
Photos may not reveal:
Internal joint condition
Hidden damage
Exact finish
Structural weakness
All previous repairs
Complete scope
Frequently asked questions
CAN LLOYD'S TELL ME FROM A PHOTO WHETHER SOMETHING CAN BE SAVED?
Photos may provide enough information for an initial conversation, but some pieces require closer evaluation.
HOW MANY PHOTOS SHOULD I SEND?
Enough to show the entire piece, problem and important details.
SHOULD I SEND A PHOTO OF A LABEL?
Yes.
CAN A FINAL PRICE ALWAYS BE GIVEN FROM PHOTOS?
Do not assume so.