To make a property pop, your photos need to do the heavy lifting. Great real estate photography isn't just about showing a room; it’s about selling a lifestyle and maximizing perceived space through technical precision.
Real Estate Photography Tips
- Shoot at Eye Level (or Lower): Avoid high angles that make ceilings look low. Shooting at about 4-5 feet height keeps vertical lines straight and makes rooms feel more natural and spacious.
- Master the "Golden Hour": Schedule exterior shots during the Golden Hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) to get that warm, inviting glow that makes properties look premium.
- Use a Wide-Angle Lens: A lens in the 16mm–24mm range is the industry standard. It captures the entire room without the "fish-eye" distortion that can make an ad look dishonest.
- The "Three-Wall" Rule: When shooting interiors, try to capture three walls in a single frame. This provides depth and helps the viewer understand the room's layout instantly.
- Declutter and Stage: Remove "visual noise" like remote controls, trash cans, and personal photos. Use the Houzz Staging Guide for inspiration on how to make a space look lived-in but pristine.
- Edit for Brightness (HDR): Use High Dynamic Range (HDR) techniques to ensure the view out the window isn't "blown out" while the interior remains bright and clear.