Here's how to take perfect real estate photos

These days, anyone can take photos of their property with their mobile phone and upload them to real estate portals like Immoscout. This has led to significant differences in quality across these platforms. Listings with high-quality photos appear more inviting and professional. Good real estate photos evoke emotions and often result in properties selling faster and at a better price. But how do you take the perfect picture?

Is a professional camera a must?

This question can initially be answered with a no. The quality of modern cell phones is now so good that they can compete with conventional digital cameras. Anyone who follows our other tips will therefore be able to take beautiful photos with their phone. However, experts can take photos to the next level with a professional SLR camera. This allows them to create special lighting effects and work with depth of field, thus capturing specific moods more effectively.

Free of personal belongings, yet still homey

It goes without saying that you should tidy up before taking photos of your property. Dirty dishes and a full drying rack in the background certainly don't look good in a picture. The trick to an outstanding real estate photo, however, is to present a room in a way that conveys a sense of home, while simultaneously avoiding clutter with personal belongings. Neutral decorations are therefore preferable to family photos and vacation souvenirs. You should also declutter desks and shelves and ensure that the images don't appear overcrowded. Less is more in this case. If small rooms are crammed with furniture, it's also a good idea to remove an armchair or a shelf for the photo.

For properties that are outdated or showing signs of wear, professional real estate agents often recommend home staging. This involves having a professional furnish your property for marketing purposes. Home staging is also a good idea if you've already moved out and the rooms would otherwise be empty.

Pay attention to the lighting conditions

It's also important to take your photos in good lighting conditions. Daylight is best. Artificial light often gives furnishings and walls a yellow tint. If the lamps aren't bright enough, the pictures will be too dark, and the rooms will automatically appear smaller and less inviting. If possible, you should also avoid using the flash when taking photos. If the lighting conditions are right, this isn't a problem. Photos taken with a flash usually look harsher and less natural. In exceptional cases, however, it's also a good idea to take photos in low light. For example, the best time to photograph your fireplace is in the evening.

Finding the right angle

Besides the right light, the right angle is crucial for a good photo. Use natural lines in the image as a guide. These could be, for example, the edge of a table or the corners of the room. If you hold the camera at an angle, the room will quickly appear distorted, and the proportions will be off. Also, consider which perspective will best capture the room. Should you shoot directly from the doorway or from a corner? Ideally, you should have a window behind you while taking the photo, as this provides the best light.

Do you need help marketing your property? Contact us now, we'd be happy to assist you with the sale.

Photo: © AndrewLozovyi