Real Estate Photography Tips: Capture Photos That Sell

Great Photos Are Your First Impression
In real estate, photos are everything. Studies show that listings with high-quality photos receive 118% more online views and sell 32% faster than those with poor photography.
Whether you hire a professional or shoot yourself, these tips will help you capture photos that convert browsers into buyers.
Before You Shoot: Preparation is Key
Declutter Everything
Remove personal items, excess furniture, and everyday clutter. Aim for a clean, spacious feel that helps buyers imagine their own belongings in the space.
Clean Like Never Before
- Windows should sparkle (natural light is your friend)
- Floors should shine
- Countertops should be clear
- Bathrooms should look spotless
Stage Each Room
- Arrange furniture to show flow and function
- Add fresh flowers or plants for color
- Use neutral decorative items
- Make beds with crisp, clean linens
Consider Lighting
- Open all blinds and curtains
- Turn on all lights
- Replace any burned-out bulbs
- Shoot during "golden hour" when possible
Camera Settings and Equipment
Use a Wide-Angle Lens
A wide-angle lens (10-22mm for crop sensors, 16-35mm for full frame) captures more of each room, making spaces look larger and more inviting.
Use a Tripod
A tripod ensures:
- Sharp, blur-free images
- Consistent height across photos
- Ability to shoot in lower light without flash
Shoot in RAW
If your camera supports it, shoot in RAW format for maximum flexibility in post-processing.
Keep ISO Low
Use ISO 100-400 when possible to minimize noise and maximize image quality.
Shooting Techniques
Find the Right Height
Camera height should be approximately chest level (4-5 feet). Too high or too low creates distorted perspectives.
Shoot from Corners
Position yourself in a corner to capture the maximum amount of the room in each shot.
Include Context
Show how rooms connect and flow into each other. Shoot through doorways when it enhances the composition.
Capture Details
Don't forget close-ups of:
- Unique architectural features
- High-end finishes
- Special appliances
- Outdoor spaces
Room-by-Room Guide
Living Areas
- Shoot from multiple angles
- Include any fireplace or focal point
- Show natural light streaming in
Kitchen
- Capture countertops clear of clutter
- Show appliances and storage
- Include eating areas if present
Bedrooms
- Make the bed the focal point
- Show closet space if impressive
- Capture natural light
Bathrooms
- Keep counters minimal
- Add fresh towels and accessories
- Close toilet lids
Exterior
- Shoot on a clear day
- Include landscaping
- Capture unique features
After the Shoot: Post-Processing
Basic Adjustments
- Correct white balance
- Straighten vertical lines
- Adjust exposure if needed
- Enhance colors naturally
What to Avoid
- Over-saturation
- Excessive HDR effects
- Making the sky unrealistically blue
- Widening beyond natural appearance
Maximize Impact with HomeTagz
Great photos become even more powerful when combined with HomeTagz:
Tag Every Feature
Add interactive tags to highlight special features in each photo. Buyers can tap to learn more about:
- Appliance brands and ages
- Flooring types and conditions
- Recent upgrades and renovations
- Special materials and finishes
AI-Enhanced Descriptions
Let HomeTagz AI generate compelling descriptions for each tagged feature, ensuring consistent quality across your listing.
Virtual Walkthroughs
Arrange photos in logical order to create a virtual tour experience that mimics an actual showing.
Ready to Transform Your Listings?
Combine stunning photography with HomeTagz interactive features to create listings that captivate buyers and sell faster.
Get started at HomeTagz.com.
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