The Importance of Listing Photos (and how to get the perfect ones)

Online listings are hugely important. In fact, according to Axios, 100% of homebuyers used the web to search for homes, and for more than half of them? More than half (52%) of recent buyers found the home they ultimately purchased through the internet, per the report. That share was 37% in 2010.

Photoup.net reports, “top-notch, compelling photography for your listings matters and helps brand you as one of the best: 72.2% of Realtors report that high-quality photography helps them win more listings. 83% of buyers said pictures are very important in helping them choose which homes they will visit.”

What’s more, property listings featuring high dynamic range (HDR) photos sell 50% faster and increase online views by 118%. And homes with drone photos or aerial photos sell 68% faster.

The moral of the story: Your real estate listing photos might just be your biggest marketing tool. So making sure they’re great? That should be priority No. 1.

Want to make sure your listing photos are doing all they can to sell your clients’ homes? Follow these tips:

1. Get geared up.

When it comes to high-level professional photography, you’ll want to have a camera, a lens and a tripod. We’re not taking selfies here, we’re selling homes. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Camera: You’ll want to have an interchangeable lens DSLR or mirrorless camera. Two recommendations from professionals would be a Sony a74, the Cannon Rebel series, or a Sony a6000.
• Tripods: Fluid head tripods are a great choice. Typically for video, these offer a smooth way to pan and tilt when necessary.
• Lens: You’ll want to consider a lens with a wide-angle zoom, preferably a 16 to 35 millimeter. This is so you can get wide shots of an entire room, especially in a larger home as well as nice detail shots. 

While an iPhone can take great pics, you will need to be able to switch lenses depending on the home and the rooms.

2. Remember that less is best.

Removing clutter helps the home look larger, cleaner, and just generally more attractive. Before scheduling real estate photography, make sure your clients take time to declutter and clear away any unnecessary items. All personal items should be off the walls, shelves should be neat and tidy, and decor should be minimal — think a small centerpiece on the table, a lamp by the bedside, or a vase of flowers on the counter.

3. Let there be natural light.

Nothing’s better than natural light. It opens up a space and makes it feel large, airy, and inviting. To make sure each listing photo captures the home in plenty of natural light, roll up the blinds and pull back any curtains or drapes. If window coverings are particularly heavy (like blackout curtains, for example), you might want to remove them entirely. 

4. Capture the essentials.

• Exterior: 1-2 angles showing curb appeal, architectural details, and landscape, plus close-ups for unique features.
• Main Living Areas: Wide shots to showcase flow and spaciousness, plus details like fireplaces, built-in shelves, and natural light.
• Kitchens: Shots highlighting functionality and style, including countertops, appliances, cabinetry, and charming details.
• Bedrooms: Convey serenity and comfort with shots of the bed, windows, and unique design elements.
• Bathrooms: Showcase cleanliness and modern amenities with vanity details, shower/tub, and overall layout.

Adapt to the Property

• Unique Selling Points: Allocate time for special amenities like pools, home theaters, gyms, or stunning views.
• Secondary Bedrooms: 1-2 photos showing size and potential.
• Backyard: Highlight outdoor features like patios, decks, gardens, and any unique amenities.

5. Think like the buyers.

Consider who you’re trying to attract and tailor shots accordingly. Young families? Highlight play areas and family-friendly features. Professionals? Showcase home office potential and sophisticated details.

Need better listing photos? Go with professional real estate photography

Hiring a professional real estate photographer is typically the best thing you can do to ensure your real estate listing photos are top-notch. Need more advice for staging a home? Try these smart tips. You can also improve your listings even more with these apps and tools.

Need an experienced lender to refer your clients to? Get in touch with an Embrace Home Loans office in your area today.