Picture Perfect: Key Shots Every Real Estate Photographer Needs to Capture

Real estate photography requires capturing key shots in order to show off a home in the best possible light. As a real estate photographer, it’s important to know what shots to take to showcase a property effectively.

In this blog post, we’ll outline the key shots every real estate photographer needs to capture to ensure a successful session. Keep reading!

The Exterior

The exterior of a property is the first thing potential buyers see.

It’s essential that real estate photography captures the beauty of the exterior and gives viewers a glimpse of what awaits them inside. A photo of the property’s front elevation can set the tone for the entire real estate photography session. The exterior shots should highlight the home’s architecture, including any unique features, such as columns or a bay window.

Next, you’ll want to snap some shots of the backyard. These images can help buyers imagine themselves spending time outside, enjoying the sun and fresh air. If the property has a garden or a pool, be sure to capture these features in the real estate photography.

Lastly, be sure to take advantage of natural light. Real estate photography is best done when the sun is shining and there are no harsh shadows or overcast skies. If the property is facing east, it’s best to schedule the real estate photography session early in the morning, when the sun is just starting to rise. If the property is facing west, late afternoon is the best time to shoot.

Remember, the exterior shots are the first impressions of a property and can often make or break a buyer’s interest. By capturing stunning exterior shots in your real estate photography session, you’re one step closer to selling the property.

The Front Door

The front door is the entrance to the world of the property and sets the tone for the entire house.

It’s the first thing potential buyers or renters will see, so capturing it beautifully is crucial. The shot of the front door should show off the character and charm of the house, making it feel inviting and homey.

To achieve this shot, stand directly in front of the door, make sure it’s fully visible, and straighten out any mats or wreaths hanging on it. Try to avoid taking this shot during the brightest part of the day, as the harsh sunlight can cast shadows and create an unflattering image.

If there are any unique features around the front door, make sure to include them in the shot. These could include potted plants, unique lighting fixtures, or beautiful masonry work. These details will add depth and character to your photos.

Don’t forget about the house number. Make sure to get a close-up shot of the house number so potential buyers or renters can easily find the property. Remember, the front door is the gateway to the property, so it’s important to create an inviting and welcoming atmosphere. With a little bit of patience and creativity, you can capture the perfect front door shot that will make any potential buyer or renter excited to step inside.

The Living Room

The living room is often the heart of a home – the place where families gather, friends laugh and memories are made. As a real estate photographer, capturing the essence of the living room is essential.

Here are some key shots you should make sure to capture:

1. Wide Angle Shot. Take a wide-angle shot that captures the entire room, giving the viewer an idea of the room’s size and layout.
2. Fireplace Shot. If there is a fireplace in the living room, make sure to capture a shot of it. Fireplaces often act as a focal point in a room, adding warmth and coziness.
3. Accent Wall. If there is an accent wall, make sure to capture a shot of it. Accent walls are a great way to add character and depth to a room.
4. Window Shot. Capture a shot of any windows in the living room, showcasing any views or natural light that comes into the room.
5. Seating Area. If there is a specific seating area in the living room, make sure to capture a shot of it. Seating areas often have a different feel to them and show how the room can be used for socializing and relaxing.

By capturing these essential shots, you’ll be able to give potential buyers a true sense of the living room’s layout and character, making it easier for them to envision themselves in the space.

The Dining Room

The dining room is one of the most important areas of the house where families gather to share meals and bond.

As a real estate photographer, you want to capture this space in the most enticing way possible. A well-lit and beautifully decorated dining room can be a game-changer for potential buyers, giving them an idea of how they can entertain guests or host dinners with their loved ones.

When you’re taking photos of the dining room, it’s essential to make sure the lighting is optimal. You want to make sure that natural light flows into the space and creates an inviting atmosphere. If the lighting is too harsh, it can cast unappealing shadows and make the room look uninviting. So, adjust the window treatments to allow in the perfect amount of light.

Once you’ve achieved the perfect lighting, take your shot from a vantage point that shows off the room’s full potential. Take a step back and capture the entire space from one angle, allowing the viewer to take in the entire scene. Focus on the room’s most significant features, such as the dining table, chairs, and light fixtures.

If the room has an open concept that leads into other areas, you want to make sure that the transitions are seamless. Showcase how the dining room seamlessly blends into the living room or kitchen. Showcasing the flow between spaces can help buyers understand the home’s layout and design.

The Kitchen

Ah, the kitchen – the heart of any home.

It’s where the magic happens – the aroma of fresh coffee in the morning, the sizzling sound of bacon on a Sunday morning, and the warmth of a home-cooked meal with family and friends. As a real estate photographer, capturing the essence of the kitchen is essential.

When photographing the kitchen, it’s crucial to highlight the features that make it special. The focal point should be the countertops, appliances, and cabinetry. Showcasing granite or marble countertops, state-of-the-art appliances, and beautiful cabinetry can set a home apart from others.

Natural lighting is also a key factor in capturing the perfect shot of the kitchen. When the sun is shining, open any window coverings and let the light flood in, highlighting the details of the kitchen.

It’s important to make sure that the kitchen is free of clutter, and appliances are tidy, as a messy kitchen can distract from its potential beauty. If the homeowner has a particular style or color theme, highlighting that can also be an added touch.

Most importantly, capturing the heart and soul of the kitchen can only be done by being creative. Getting down on the ground for a lower angle can emphasize the kitchen’s grandeur, and focusing on unique details like a colorful backsplash or lighting fixtures can make the kitchen shine. With these simple tricks and creativity, you can elevate the kitchen and take a photo that potential buyers will never forget.

The Primary Bedroom

When potential buyers are touring a home, one of the first areas they want to see is the primary bedroom. As a real estate photographer, you need to capture the space in a way that highlights its key features and conveys its unique character.

To start, take a wide shot of the bedroom from the door. This will give buyers a sense of the layout and flow of the space. From there, move in closer to capture the details. Make sure to capture any standout architectural features, such as built-in shelving, crown molding, or a fireplace.

One of the key features buyers are often interested in is the size of the bedroom, so make sure to highlight the space by getting shots from various angles. If the room has a walk-in closet or an attached bathroom, be sure to capture those as well.

When it comes to staging, keep the decor simple and neutral. Remove any personal items such as family photos or clutter to create a clean, welcoming atmosphere. Make the bed with fresh linens and arrange a few decorative pillows for a touch of personality.

Another important factor to consider when shooting the primary bedroom is lighting. Natural light is always preferred, but if that’s not possible, make sure the room is well-lit with lamps and overhead lighting. Avoid using the flash on your camera, as this can create harsh shadows and unnatural lighting.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to capture stunning photos of the primary bedroom that showcase the space in the best possible light. Remember, buyers want to envision themselves living in the home, so your photos should make it easy for them to do so.

The Bathroom

As you continue your tour of the property, don’t forget to capture shots of the bathroom. After all, this is where we start and end our days – it deserves to be showcased in all its glory!

Begin by taking a shot of the overall bathroom layout, including the sink, toilet, and shower/tub. This will give potential buyers an idea of how much space they have to work with.

Next, focus on the details. Take close-up shots of any unique features, such as the countertop material or the showerhead. Don’t forget to highlight any high-end fixtures, like a rainfall shower or a whirlpool bathtub. Make sure to capture images of the storage options as well. Showcase any built-in shelves, medicine cabinets, or other storage solutions that make the bathroom functional and organized.

Finally, consider adding a touch of personality to your bathroom shots. Place a vase of fresh flowers or a stack of fluffy towels on the counter to add some warmth and charm. With these key shots, you’ll ensure that potential buyers see the full potential of the property – even in the bathroom. So go ahead and snap away!

The Backyard

Now that we’ve covered the interior shots, let’s step outside to capture some key shots of the backyard. This is where potential buyers can imagine themselves enjoying outdoor activities or simply relaxing in the fresh air.

First up, take a wide-angle shot of the entire backyard to give buyers a sense of the size and layout. This shot can also showcase any unique features such as a pool, hot tub, or large deck.

Next, get up close and personal with some detail shots. Take photos of any special landscaping, like a beautiful garden or mature trees, as well as any built-in features like a fire pit or barbecue area. If there’s a specific area of the backyard that stands out, like a cozy seating area or a treehouse, make sure to highlight it with a few shots. This will help buyers visualize themselves enjoying that space.

Lastly, don’t forget to capture the view from the backyard. If the property backs onto a scenic park or a stunning skyline, make sure to showcase it with a panoramic shot. By capturing these key shots of the backyard, potential buyers will have a better understanding of the space and can easily imagine themselves living their best outdoor life.

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