The goal of professional real estate photography is simple: Make potential buyers stop scrolling through Zillow and pick up the phone to call you. This is easier said than done for an ugly-duckling home with a peeling ballroom, but it can be accomplished with some simple strategies.
Residential real estate photography differs from architecture and interior photography because of how the finished images are used. To create the best results, consider these real estate photography tips.
Adapt to Your Environment
Real estate photography should be tailored to the environment in which it is taken. If a real estate agent needs to shoot photos at dusk, for example, they should learn how to take professional-quality images at twilight, which can be challenging but is an important skill to master.
It’s also important for a real estate photographer to have the right equipment, such as a wide-angle lens and a tripod. A tripod is especially useful for shooting interior photographs, as it can help avoid or diminish perspective distortion.
Lighting is another important consideration, as it can make or break an image. Natural light from windows is preferable, but supplemental lighting can also be helpful in certain situations.
For example, if a room has dark wood cabinets against a bright wall, a dimmer setting can make the cabinet appear more vibrant and draw attention away from the walls. Many photographers use a technique called HDR (High Dynamic Range), which involves taking multiple exposures and blending them to create the final image. While programs like Lightroom can do this automatically, specialized add-ins provide more finesse and control.
Take Multiple Exposures
Professional real estate photographers take multiple exposures to blend into a final image. This method of shooting allows them to capture all of the details in a room’s window, as well as any shadows or highlights that might be present. It also makes the post-processing phase easier and more effective.
When you are first getting into real estate photography, it is important to have the proper equipment. This includes a high-quality camera, wide-angle lens, and drones (optional). You also need to invest in lighting equipment. There are a variety of flashes on the market, but it’s best to use a Godox system.
Another essential piece of equipment is a tripod. It helps prevent perspective distortion and makes it easier to frame the shot. It’s also important to shoot at chest height when possible, as this will help to avoid any skewing of the space. A good quality tripod will also ensure that the images you take are clear and crisp. A tripod also helps you to keep the camera steady in low-light conditions. This is especially crucial for interior shots that require a long shutter speed to capture detail in the dark.
Shoot Vignettes
There’s a famous quote: “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” That same sentiment applies to professional real estate photography. Many photographers who start their careers thinking they can simply push a button and instantly create beautiful photos will quickly realize that there is much more to the job than that.
Real estate photography needs to highlight the property’s best features, and vignettes are an excellent way to do that. Whether it’s a gorgeous backyard garden, a custom fireplace, or parquet flooring, capturing these details can make buyers stop scrolling and pick up the phone to call for a tour.
It’s also important to consider the tripod height when taking photos of interior spaces. Buyers will view these photos from eye-level, so if the camera is too high or low, the composition can feel awkward and off-putting. A bubble level is a good tool to have handy for this reason. It can help ensure that vertical lines are straight in the photo. This will make the resulting photos more aesthetically pleasing. This is especially important in rooms with tall ceilings.
Use a Tripod
A tripod is essential for real estate photography, as it provides a stable base and prevents or reduces perspective distortion. It can also help you avoid blurry images when shooting in low light conditions, as you may need to use a slow shutter speed.
It’s important to use a tripod with a geared head, as ball heads tend to flop around and make the camera unstable. A geared head is easier to level and can also be used to capture HDR (High Dynamic Range) images.
Real estate photographers often shoot in the early afternoon or just before sunset to get the best lighting for both exterior and interior photos. However, if this isn’t possible, make sure you schedule your shoot for a time when the sun isn’t directly shining into a room or hallway, as this can cause unflattering shadows.
When taking interior photos, choose a wide-angle lens to make small rooms appear more spacious. You can also use a macro lens for close-ups of furniture or fixtures. If you’re shooting with a flash, be sure to bring a diffuser or reflector to control the direction and quality of light.
Be Flexible
Real estate photography can be a lucrative business if you take the time to learn as much as possible and get to know your equipment. You should also have a good working knowledge of post-production. It will be easier to make changes and fixes in post than it is during the shoot.
Keep in mind that the real estate market is always changing, and so should your style. It’s important to stay up to date with what others in the industry are doing and try to incorporate elements that will set you apart from your competition.
For example, many professional real estate photographers use a tilt-shift lens to ensure vertical lines are straight in their photographs. This is especially important in homes, which are filled with vertical lines that can be distracting if they’re not parallel. Also, if you’re using a tripod, be sure to use a geared head rather than a ball head, as this will provide more stability and be easier to level. You may also want to consider adding external flashes to your home photography kit. These will allow you to add more light in dimmer environments and are ideal for stacking lighting.