Transitional EntryTransitional Entry, San Francisco

A semiflush fixture, like the drum-shaped one shown here, is a good alternative if you don’t have enough ceiling clearance for a more substantial pendant.

Replacement process: Installing a unit is fairly straightforward, particularly if it’s a surface-mounted product, says Tom Borden, principal at Construction Services and Solutions in Crownsville, Maryland. Recess mounting will require a little more construction know-how, as it can involve cutting through wood, aluminum, brick, stucco, concrete or other entryway materials. If the bell no longer tolls for you, it’s likely the button that needs replacing. Remove the old doorbell cover (usually mounted with two screws), and disconnect the interchangeable wires from the back. Tape the wires down so they don’t slip back into the wall. Using needle-nose pliers and a screwdriver, connect the wires to the screw terminals on the new switch. Remount the switch to the house or doorframe using the screws provided with the new bell. Reestablish the power at the circuit box and test the bell. Since bell buttons often come as a set with a chime box (and chime boxes offer different ringing options and tones), it may be worth replacing the box. The chime box typically is installed on an inside wall high enough to be heard throughout the home (notice the chime box at the top-left corner in this image). Remove the cover plate off the old chime unit, using tape to label the wires according to their respective connections. Unscrew the wires from their terminals and unscrew the chime unit from the wall carefully, ensuring that the wires do not slip into the wall cavity. Thread the wires through the base of the new chime unit and mount it to the wall with the provided screws. Connect the wires to the screw terminals on the new unit, matching the labels to their respective terminals. Attach the cover plate. Turn the power back on and test the unit.

When you start out, try to think like a professional photographer. A pro wouldn't come into your home unprepared and spend a few quick minutes snapping shots — so you shouldn't either. Before you pick up the camera, think about the story you want to tell with your images. Where are the critical spaces, and how do you want to express them? What pieces are stifling the scene? Map out your plan of attack, even breaking it up into stages if it feels overwhelming. Follow the advice below, practice and try not to rush the process.

2. Usher guests in with an inviting entryway. Your entryway is your guest's first point of contact with your home's interior. There's no need to make the entryway speak with high volume drama; in fact, the simpler it is, the better. Make sure entryway basics like a bench or a pair of chairs and a coatrack or closet are easily available to guests.Entryways Take a Seat

A matching pair of chairs looks lovely in this large, open foyer.