Photos are an integral part of any online real estate listing. It’s like digital curb appeal: they give prospective buyers a glimpse into the home and influence their initial thoughts about the property. If they like what they see, it is likely they’ll get in touch to schedule a personal viewing and decide if, finally, this is the house for them.
But as most people know, hiring a professional real estate photographer adds to the total selling costs. Fortunately, the following real estate photography tips will help you take photos almost like a pro.
PLAN YOUR SHOOT
First, conduct a thorough inspection of the house. Identify all of its best features and unique selling points, such as architectural highlights and space. Note down all of this information and take time to determine the angles as well as time of day to showcase these features. Then, do a couple of test shots to decide which angles and lighting will work best.
USE HIGH-DEFINITION PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT
Using blurry, low-definition listing photos is one of the most effective ways to turn prospective buyers away.
Fortunately, you don’t need to invest in professional equipment to take high-quality photos these days; most smartphones are now equipped with high-definition lenses. The only other equipment you might want to consider adding to your toolbox are a tripod and a remote trigger.
That said, smartphone cameras have their limitations. If you want to include birds-eye exterior shots of your property and the neighborhood to the listing, consider hiring a professional drone operator. Such pictures aren’t necessary, but they provide potential buyers with a general view of the area.
STAGE YOUR PROPERTY
Home staging isn’t just for showings and open houses- it can be used for real estate photography, too. It’s especially beneficial for remote buyers, particularly ones from outside the state or country.
But what if the house you’re selling is bare? Most professional home staging services either have their own furniture warehouses or are in partnerships with local furniture and decor stores. They’ll come in and design the spaces, then take out the items after the shoot is done or after the open house. Alternatively, you can also use a virtual staging service to add furniture and decor during the final edit of the photos.
TAKE MULTIPLE SHOTS AT DIFFERENT TIMES OF THE DAY
One of the most underrated real estate photography tips is to take photos of the house in the morning, during high noon, in the afternoon, and well into the night. Taking multiple shots throughout the day enables buyers to see how the property looks during different times. Even if they visit the house in person, they can’t stay the whole day.
This tip is particularly useful if sunrise and/or sunset views are part of your property’s major selling points. Moreover, multiple shots taken at different times also help buyers better visualize what it would be like to live in the house.
I’m Robyn Robinson, a local Orange County agent. With over 40 years of experience in the real estate industry, I’ve collected a ton of home selling tips to share with you- they’re here on my blog. You can also call me at 949.295.5676 or send me an email for personal assistance with your home selling journey in Orange County, CA.