The Do’s and Don’ts of Real Estate Photography for Busy Realtors

As a busy realtor, high-quality photos are essential for showcasing your listings, but finding time to manage a professional photoshoot can be challenging. To help you get the best results without the stress, here’s a guide on what to do and what to avoid when handling real estate photography.

The Do’s of Real Estate Photography

1. Hire a Professional Photographer
   Even if you’re tempted to take photos yourself, hiring a professional is worth the investment. They have the right equipment, experience, and eye for capturing the property’s best features, making your listings stand out.

2. Prepare the Property in Advance
   Make sure the home is clean, decluttered, and staged before the photographer arrives. Remove personal items, tidy up countertops, and ensure each room is well-lit. A prepared home makes the photoshoot go smoother and results in better images.

3. Schedule at the Right Time
   If you want to maximize natural light, schedule the photoshoot for mid-morning or late afternoon, when lighting is softer and shadows are less harsh. For exteriors, consider the “golden hour” right after sunrise or before sunset.

4. Include Aerial Shots When Appropriate
   If a property has a large lot, unique landscaping, or is in a scenic location, consider using drone photography. Aerial views add context and showcase features that ground-level photos can’t capture.

5. Use Photography to Tell a Story
   Plan your shot list so that photos flow logically from one room to the next. Start with the exterior, then capture the main rooms (living, kitchen, dining), and end with the bedrooms and backyard. This approach helps potential buyers visualize the layout and flow of the home.

The Don’ts of Real Estate Photography

1. Don’t Skip Staging
   Even minor touches, like arranging pillows, adding fresh flowers, or clearing off kitchen counters, make a huge difference. An unstaged home can appear less appealing and may turn buyers off.

2. Don’t Use Smartphone Photos
   Even the latest smartphones can’t replicate the quality of professional cameras. Poor-quality photos reflect badly on the listing and your brand as a realtor. Always opt for high-resolution, well-edited images.

3. Don’t Over-Edit the Photos
   While editing can enhance images, over-editing (e.g., using excessive HDR or overly bright colors) can create unrealistic expectations for buyers. Aim for natural, true-to-life images that accurately represent the property.

4. Don’t Forget About the Exterior
   The home’s curb appeal matters. Make sure the lawn is mowed, landscaping is neat, and any clutter (like toys or trash cans) is removed from the yard. A great exterior shot can serve as the anchor for your listing.

5. Don’t Ignore Seasonal Updates
   If the home was photographed in the winter but is now listed in the summer, consider reshooting key areas like the front yard or patio. Outdated photos can make a listing seem stale and less desirable.

Conclusion
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure your listings have high-quality photos that attract buyers and present your properties in the best light. Remember, great photography is an investment that pays off by generating more interest and faster sales. Need professional real estate photos? Contact Nigel Everett Photography to make your listings shine!