How to Nail Real Estate Photography

Real estate photography is about making properties look their best while highlighting their unique features. Here are some tips to help you create professional-grade real estate images.

1. Declutter the Space

Before shooting, ensure the space is clean and free of clutter. This helps potential buyers imagine themselves in the property. Simple staging, like adding fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit, can make a big difference.

Ask the homeowner or real estate agent to prepare the space in advance. Remove personal items like family photos or knick-knacks to create a neutral, inviting atmosphere.

2. Use a Wide-Angle Lens

A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) is essential for capturing the full scope of a room. It makes spaces appear larger and more inviting while maintaining proper proportions.

When shooting, aim for straight lines—use a tripod and a spirit level to keep your camera perfectly aligned. This prevents distortion and creates a professional look.

3. Shoot at the Right Time

Natural light is key. Aim to shoot during the day when rooms are well-lit by sunlight. Open blinds and curtains to let in as much light as possible.

For exterior shots, golden hour can add warmth to the property. Cloudy days also work well, as diffused light eliminates harsh shadows.

4. Edit for Perfection

Post-processing is crucial for real estate photography. Adjust brightness, correct white balance, and remove minor distractions to make the property look its best. Tools like Lightroom are ideal for this.

Composite editing is also a common technique—merge multiple exposures to balance interior and exterior lighting in the same shot. This ensures no detail is lost in highlights or shadows.