10 Tips On How To Become An Excellent Real Estate Photographer
If you’re looking to excel in real estate photography, honing your craft is essential. With experience photographing homes for real estate agents, I’ve developed a tried-and-true process that ensures high-quality results. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, here are
10 tips to learn from and use in your own practice
My process when photographing real estate is to take bracketed images or use a flash gun. This is bounced behind me, with home lights on or off. Check the requirements beforehand, as some real estate firms do not want the inside lights on.
Here are different angles of this long room, which is a kitchen, dining area and living room. Light comes from the window in this room, which is natural.
Multiple lighting sources in this picture, with a spotlight, bedside lights, room light and natural light from the window.
Learn About Lighting.
Lighting is probably the most significant aspect of any photograph. It affects every other element of the image, so it’s essential to understand lighting before taking pictures. You should also learn about camera settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, etc.
Understand exposure.
If you’re not sure where to begin, read our article on understanding exposure and how to take a manual picture.
Know when to shoot.
You need to understand when to shoot. This means knowing when the light will be right, when the weather will be favorable, and when the market will be positive. It also means knowing when to stop shooting. (midday is usually a good time, but ask when the property gets the most light, morning or afternoon)
Perfect Your Bracketing Technique
Bracketing involves taking multiple shots at different exposures to combine later for the perfect image. This is especially useful in challenging lighting situations.
Be prepared.
If you’re planning to take photos of houses, make sure you have everything you need with you. That includes a camera, tripod, memory card, batteries, and extra lenses. Always have the following:
Camera and backup batteries
Tripod for stability
Multiple lenses for varying angles
Extra memory cards
Take Some Excellent Shots.
You should also practice taking high-quality pictures before shooting at home. This will help you learn how to position yourself properly, so you capture the right angles and lighting. It will also give you the opportunity to see whether you prefer natural or artificial light.
You can visually see how these two angles look for the back exterior of this property.
Practice Your Angles. Experiment with different perspectives to showcase the property’s unique features. For example, capturing wide-angle shots can highlight spaciousness, while tighter frames can emphasize details. Compare multiple angles to find the best composition.
Highlight Key Features. Pay attention to details that make the property stand out, such as lighting fixtures, textures, or standout decor. These features can add depth and character to your photos.
Know Your Market. Every real estate market is different. Understand what appeals to your audience, whether it’s wide shots for spacious homes or close-ups of luxury finishes for upscale properties.
Use a Tripod for Consistency. A tripod is essential for stability, especially when shooting in low-light conditions. It also ensures consistency across your shots, making post-production easier.
Post-Process Your Images. Editing is just as important as shooting. Learn software like Lightroom or Photoshop to adjust exposure, correct colours, and remove distractions. Subtle edits can elevate a good photo into an exceptional one.
Lets wrap this up!
Real estate photography combines technical skill with creativity. By following these tips and refining your techniques, you can consistently produce high-quality images that capture the attention of buyers and clients alike.
📸 As a commercial photographer, I work with real estate agents and property businesses to create impactful visuals. If you’re looking for professional property photography, let’s connect!
Email, call or DM me for more information
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