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Real Estate Photography

real estate photography cost
Real Estate Photography

How Much Does Real Estate Photography Cost? A Complete Guide

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

Several factors can influence real estate photography costs. Understanding the expenses can help you make well-informed decisions when hiring a real estate photographer. Depending on various elements, real estate photography prices can vary significantly.

For a basic package, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for 10 to 20 photos, ideal for smaller properties. A mid-range package, typically priced between $300 and $600, will provide you with 20 to 40 photos along with basic editing, making it a good choice for properties that need a bit more attention. If you’re looking for something more comprehensive, premium options–ranging from $600 to over $1,500 and including an average of 40+ photos, drone shots, and even virtual tours–are there for larger or high-end listings.

What Factors Impact Real Estate Photography Cost?

Below are the most important elements that determine the final costs of real estate photography:

Location & property size

The real estate photography cost differs substantially depending on your location. In high-demand urban areas, where real estate markets are highly competitive, photographers may demand higher rates. On the contrary, in smaller towns or rural areas, you might find more budget-friendly options.

In addition, larger homes obviously usually need more time and effort, which can lead to higher real estate photography costs. A small apartment might take an hour to photograph, while a large estate could take several hours or even a couple of sessions. The number of rooms, outdoor spaces, and distinct features, such as a pool or garden all influence the time and effort needed.

Read More: Shoot a property for virtual staging

Location & property size Impacting in Real Estate Photography Cost

Experience and skill of the photographer

Photographers with immense experience and a strong reputation in the real estate industry usually charge higher rates. Their skill and expertise can be invaluable, particularly if they have a portfolio that exhibits success in photographing homes similar to yours.

However, if you have a limited budget, you might consider working with a less experienced photographer who can still create high-quality photos. Alternatively, you can take matters into your own hands by shooting the property yourself and opting for tech-based services, like AI HomeDesign’s suite of real estate photo editing tools!

Equipment and technology

Real estate photography cost also depends on the equipment and technology required. Photographers use professional equipment and tools, such as cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, tripods, and editing software to deliver excellent results. The cost of renting, purchasing, and maintaining this equipment, including regular maintenance and upgrades, is included in the pricing.

In addition, photographers who provide specialized services such as drone photography might charge extra because of the higher costs and skill level needed to operate such equipment.

Equipment and technology Impacting in Real Estate Photography Cost

Usage and licensing

Though not always the case, how you plan to utilize the photos can also impact the real estate photography cost. If you only make use of them for one property listing, it might be less expensive than using them for several listings, ads, or commercial goals.

Consult with the photographer about your needs to perceive any additional costs or restrictions for using and licensing the photos. Different photographers might have different professional frameworks and principles regarding how and where their artwork is used.

Number of images and type of services

Different packages or photographers may provide different options for the number of photos they deliver. Moreover, while some packages offer basic editing and retouching, others might come with extra services such as virtual staging, twilight photography, or aerial shots. The greater the number of photos or the more various the services required, the higher the cost is likely to be.

Additional services

Many real estate photographers offer extra services that can improve your listing like:

  • Twilight Photography: Twilight photos are captured at dusk, demonstrating your home in a warm, inviting glow. These photos can make your listing attract attention in online searches.
    If you think a photographer for a dusk or twilight photo is an added expense, why not use our day-to-dusk service for a fraction of the cost?
  • Photo Editing and Improvement: Professional editing can rectify lighting, eliminate small imperfections, and enhance the overall attraction of your photos. Some photographers add this to their packages, while others may charge more.
    Similarly, you can find all kinds of property photo editing tools, such as AI Image Enhancement, for easy, affordable, and quick improvements on all kinds of real estate photos.

before and after of day to dusk

Read More: Real estate photo editing techniques

Tips for Hiring a Professional Real Estate Photographer

Hiring a professional real estate photographer is a sound decision that saves you time and makes a huge difference in creating real estate leads. With their skills, you’ll accelerate the listing process and sell properties more quickly.

Creating a good relationship with a photographer will provide you with high-quality real estate photos and videos that effectively showcase your listings.

When hiring a real estate photographer, the following photography tips and practices can help you considerably:

  • Specialization in real estate: Hiring a real estate photographer with specialized skills can help you prevent potential issues with third-party listing sites.
  • Portfolio assessment: Checking the photographer’s previous works to assess the quality and style of their photos can help you determine whether they are an ideal choice.
  • Value over affordability: Avoid choosing a photographer for your listings based on the affordability factor. If you do, you might get low-quality photos that could damage your marketing. When considering real estate photography pricing, it’s essential to focus on the return on investment.
  • Consider multiple photographers: It’s a good idea to have several photographers on your list for flexibility. Test different ones and dedicate more time to the ones you like best.
  • Turnaround time: Considering the turnaround time for the post-production and photo file delivery is crucial. A photographer’s skills may be excellent, but slow turnaround times can prevent your ability to list the property immediately.
  • Clear expectations: Your photographer must be aware of your marketing ideas and desired style before the photo shoot. After you get the photos, give them feedback to make sure future sessions meet your expectations.
  • Suitable equipment: When hiring a real estate photographer, ensure they have the necessary professional equipment to handle different environments and lighting conditions for high-quality photos.
Read More: MLS Specifications

Tips for Hiring a Professional Real Estate Photographer

It Pays to Pay a Photographer!

Investing in professional real estate photography is one of the best decisions you can make as a home seller. While the real estate photography cost is not fixed, the potential return on investment is significant.

High-quality photos can draw more purchasers, sell your home faster, and even drive up your final sale price. By understanding the factors that affect the cost and picking a skilled photographer, you’re making yourself ready for a successful home sale.

FAQs

The majority of buyers begin their home search online. The quality of the photos utilized in your listing can make or destroy a potential buyer’s interest. High-quality images not only draw more views but also build a stronger emotional connection, which can result in quicker sales and higher offers.
Drone photographers determine their prices based on factors such as their experience level, the size of the home, the quantity of images created, etc. On average, each drone photography project will cost around $300, though the price can vary from a minimum of $100 to a peak price of $1200.
The cost of a virtual tour typically falls between $100 and $300, varying based on factors like the property’s size, complexity, and the desired level of detail. The cost of a virtual tour depends on the type of software utilized, the project or house size, and the creator’s skills. For example, Zillow 3D Home is a cheaper virtual tour option that puts panorama images together to provide an apparently 3D experience.
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shoot a property for virtual staging
Real Estate Photography

How to Shoot a Property for Virtual Staging?

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

In the world of real estate marketing, high-quality photography is crucial for successful virtual staging. It can create appealing visuals that attract potential buyers and enable sellers and agents to present properties in the best possible light.

In other words, the photographs are the only mediatory for digital staging, and they play a key role in the success of digital staging. That is why the quality of photos can make a big difference in higher sales and faster offers.

In this article, we will explore how to shoot a property for virtual staging including preparation, equipment, and techniques.

Preparing a Property for Shooting

The first and most important step to shoot a property for virtual staging concerns preparation, ensuring your photos look professional and inviting. That is why we list the main steps to prepare the property to consider:

A. Decluttering and cleaning

For sure, the process of preparing a room for shooting will involve some degree of decluttering and cleaning. Even if you miss some cluttering items when preparing the room for shooting, nothing to worry about! As a part of our photo editing services, we at AI HomeDesign can remove items professionally from the photo using AI, improving the cleanliness of the space by:

Emptying the whole room: We automatically empty your whole room of any clutters in seconds!

Masking items one by one: We brush on specific objects to mask them and remove those objects from your picture

before and after of item removal

When preparing the rooms to take photos for virtual staging, keep in mind to:

  1. Remove personal items: Start by decluttering the space by removing items such as your family photos and other distractions. You need to create a neutral environment for the potential buyers to envision themselves in the space.
  2. Clean surfaces deeply: Clean and wipe down surfaces, vacuum carpets, and mop floors, especially for the most viewed spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms. Remember that a clean space can enhance the overall appeal and make the virtual staging process more effective.

B. Ensuring good lighting

  1. Natural light vs. artificial light: To effectively shoot a property for virtual staging, natural light is preferred since it can provide the most flattering environment. For the most effective result, open the curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible. Use artificial light to brighten dark areas only in case natural light is insufficient.
  2. Time of day for optimal lighting: Professional photographers always shoot at the most suitable time, popularly referred to as the Golden Hour. That’s early in the morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is softer. If you lose the chance to shoot in the morning, enjoy your midday light, let the shadows disappear, and then try shooting again.

C. Setting up the space

Though cleaning and being spotless is the key, always consider space settings, which include everything from furniture arrangement to the corner or angle you use for shooting a property for virtual staging.

  1. Arranging furniture: Arrange the furniture to highlight the room’s functionality. If the property is vacant, virtual staging will complement the space in styles tailored to the market’s taste.
  2. Considering space and flow: Ensure that the pathways are clear. Take a second look at pathway connections before shooting a property for virtual staging, ensuring potential buyers can effortlessly visualize moving through the space.

Looking More Professional

Having the right equipment can make a significant difference in the quality of your photos. Here’s what you need:

Camera options for virtual staging shooting

A. Camera options

  1. DSLR or mirrorless cameras: Investing in a good-quality camera such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera offers better image quality and versatility. It makes a difference compared to standard point-and-shoot cameras.
  2. Smartphone cameras: Many modern smartphones have excellent cameras. These kinds of cameras can produce high-quality images through proper lighting and composition. So, if you’re not looking to own a professional camera for real estate photos, opt for a flagship smartphone with a more-than-decent camera!

B. Tripod for stability

A tripod can help you achieve sharp images by eliminating camera shake, especially in low-light situations. A good tripod also gives you the chance to maintain consistent framing across multiple shots.

C. Lenses

One of the main features that directly impact the quality of your images is to use the right lens. That is why we highlight the kinds of lens options you need to have in your pocket! Though you may require advice from professional photographers on this, here is a brief on the different lenses you need for taking photos for virtual staging.

  1. Wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens, typically a 16-35mm usually used for full-frame cameras, can be an ideal option to shoot a property for virtual staging. Allowing you to capture more of the room in a single shot, this lens helps to make spaces appear larger and more inviting.
  2. Additional lenses: It is advised to have a prime lens for close-ups or details and a zoom lens for flexibility in framing your shots depending on the property.

D. Lighting equipment

Though natural light is one of the main components of property shooting, additional lighting is sometimes required. That is why you need to consider using:

  1. Flashes: Using flashes, you can illuminate darker corners of a room or have a balanced natural light.
  2. Reflectors: They can be helpful in shadowy areas by bouncing light and enhancing the overall brightness of your images.

Shooting Techniques: Getting Down to the Actual Business

Once the property is prepared and equipped, you need to apply some basic steps to shoot a property for virtual staging. Here are some effective methods:

A. Composition tips

  1. Rule of thirds: To set the camera at the right focal point, divide your image into thirds both horizontally and vertically. This way, you can place the points of interest along these lines or at their intersections, making the final photo more balanced and engaging.
  2. Angles to capture: A wide shot will be in your favor and give you a chance to showcase the entire room. Use close-ups to catch details.

B. Taking multiple shots

When it comes to shooting a property for virtual staging, always take the safe approach and take multiple shots of any space and try these techniques:

  1. Trying different angles and heights: Sometimes, it is hard to find the most flattering spot in the first take. Instead, shoot from various heights—eye level, slightly lower, or slightly higher. This angle variation can enhance the room’s dynamicity and appeal.
  2. Capturing various rooms and features: Always take pictures of all key areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. You can emphasize unique features like fireplaces, built-in shelving, or outdoor patios. Know that listings with too few or not enough images will leave the buyers wondering and lower your chances of making a sale!

C. Focus on key selling points

Depending on the market priority at the time of the property sale, you need to shoot a property for virtual staging by emphasizing its key features.

  1. Highlighting unique architecture: Focus on the distinctive architectural features of the building including crown molding, large windows, or unique layouts that set the property apart.
  2. Showcasing outdoor spaces: The exterior is as important as the interior. You need to capture gardens, patios, and balconies to enhance a property’s appeal. Don’t forget to use wide shots to show the area and close-ups for details.

Focus on key selling points in shooting for real estate

Post-Process Editing: The Last Step of the Adventure

After capturing your images, you’re halfway there! Here, you have one more step to finalize your image for the property listings. Through post-process editing, you can enhance the image quality further. Here are some steps to follow:

A. Basic editing techniques

  1. Adjusting brightness and contrast: Leveraging our AI-generated tools, we at AI HomeDesign can help you adjust brightness and contrast and ensure the images are well-lit without losing detail in the highlights or shadows.
  2. Enhancing and adjusting photos: After uploading your high-quality photos to the platform, we enhance the images by adjusting exposure and color balance, making them visually more inviting and realistic.

B. Preparing images for virtual staging

  1. Renovating photos: We at AI HomeDesign use AI tools to make style, light, and color changes both for interior design and home renovation including restyling furniture, and changing the color of ceilings, walls, and floors.
  2. Considering file formats and resolution: We use high-resolution formats (like TIFF or PNG) for virtual staging. JPEGs can be fine for web use provided that they have been taken in high quality.
  3. Avoiding pictures taken with flash: We suggest using a camera with a high dynamic range (HDR) to capture details accurately. We use the ultimate quality of AI to edit property images with the highest resolutions and lighting depending on your individual and budget preferences.
  4. Using photos with better alignment: If you’re dealing with misalignment in your property photos, AI HomeDesign’s photo editing service corrects all horizontal or vertical lines and levels up the pictures with our AI editing services.

It’s Not Rocket Science. Just Stay on Track

Shooting a property for virtual staging requires careful preparation, the right equipment, effective shooting techniques, and post-editing requirements. By decluttering the space, observing lighting standards, and applying quality cameras and lenses, you can capture images for successful virtual staging.

Remember to shoot from different angles and focus on key selling points. With proper post-processing, your images will not only highlight the property’s features but also engage potential buyers.

By mastering these techniques, you can create stunning visuals to enhance your property listings, facilitating quicker sales in today’s competitive real estate market.

FAQs

Virtual staging is a professional task that usually entails more than just placing fictitious furniture in real-world settings using software. To appear more inviting, AI HomeDesign offers virtual staging to generate excellent pictures of the rooms and virtually change the unit’s decor. Do not trouble yourself with staging pictures. We provide virtual staging services, both AI and human, to remove furniture and unwanted objects from the images while recommending 7+ room types and styles along the way. Through our skilled team of experts, we make rooms pop out and help potential buyers see themselves in the house.
The four corners of a room will give you the best orientation to shoot for virtual staging. The corners are strategically important when photographing a room for virtual staging. They can provide wonderful vanishing points. They are also great depth indicators that provide a perfect framework for decorating a space.

Make sure the spaces are shot in landscape, not portrait. An image in landscape mode is wider than it is tall, showing a lot more area. This quality allows graphic designers to use the maximum amount of space to add virtual features. In addition, real estate marketing websites such as Zillow use landscape photos that look better on multiple listing services.

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real estate photo editing techniques
Real Estate Photography

Basic Editing Techniques for Real Estate Photos

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

Real estate photo editing techniques are among the most crucial skills in real estate marketing. Whether you’re retouching images or making general edits, the effective use of photos in property listings can profoundly influence a buyer’s subconscious.

By utilizing photos to sway your audience’s perception, you can achieve several key outcomes:

  • Increased buyer engagement, encouraging them to take the listings seriously;
  • A clearer understanding of both the interior and exterior of the property that allows them to appreciate its features more effectively; and,
  • An unforgettable first impression that captures attention; buyers are influenced by their initial perception, even when viewing the property online.

For this reason, we want to explore essential real estate photo editing techniques that are crucial for all real estate agents.

The Difference Between Retouching and Editing

Well, you don’t really need to differentiate between retouching and editing in practice. What’s truly important is the ability to edit photos in a way that captivates the audience. However, this article might also serve as an introduction for some readers who want to embark on their professional photography journey.

When we talk about structural changes, we refer to enhancing the overall quality of the original images through general edits. If our adjustments focus solely on altering individual elements, this is known as retouching.

Retouching involves removing imperfections, adding or modifying aspects, and applying creative effects. On the other hand, image editing includes exposure correction, color adjustment, cropping, smoothing, lens correction, and HDR compositing.

The Difference Between Retouching and Editing in real estate

Retouching Techniques for Stunning Real Estate Photos

Even the most stunning shots can benefit from retouching techniques that enhance their appeal. So, let’s explore three essential retouching techniques that are endlessly important in property photo editing:

  • Spot removal;
  • noise reduction; and,
  • imperfection fixing.

In what follows, you’ll discover how these methods can transform your images and ensure they look polished and professional.

Spot removal magic

Spot removal is among the crucial real estate photo editing techniques. Imagine capturing a beautiful living room, only to find a stray item, like a shoe or a child’s toy, on the floor. Spot removal helps you clean up the image by eliminating these distracting elements, making the space look more organized and inviting.

This is especially important when presenting homes for sale, as potential buyers prefer images that showcase the home’s features without distractions.

To perform spot removal, use tools like the Healing Brush or Clone Stamp in your photo editing software. These tools help you eliminate blemishes or distractions in your images. Spot removal can address anything from dust spots on a lens to unwanted objects in the background.

effective spot removal for the win!

  1. If you’re using manual editing tools like Adobe Photoshop, select the Healing Brush Tool from the left toolbar—it looks like a band-aid—or simply press the shortcut key J. Adjust the brush size using the bracket keys to suit the area you’re working on.
  2. Then, hold Alt (or Option on Mac) and click on a clean spot nearby to set your sample source.
  3. Now, click or paint over the unwanted spot, and watch as the tool blends it seamlessly with the surrounding area. Repeat this process for any other spots you want to remove.
  4. For better accuracy, zoom in on the image. If the Healing Brush isn’t giving the results you want, try using the Spot Healing Brush Tool for faster fixes!

If you’ve never done spot removal in Photoshop, you may face several challenges during the retouching process. Given the significance of these issues, we’ve explored them in a separate article titled “What is Item Removal in Real Estate?“

before and after of real estate photo editing

mastering object removal with AI tools

If you have never worked with Photoshop, it can be challenging at first. In case your initial attempts at removing distractions don’t go well, there’s no need to be discouraged. This photo editing technique takes practice, and you will improve with each try. If you lack the time to enhance your Photoshop skills, try our AI Item Removal tool.

With AI HomeDesign’s Item Removal, you can seamlessly remove unwanted objects and distractions from your photos. Our advanced technology quickly and automatically identifies and eliminates clutter, leaving your images clean, focused, and visually striking.

Reducing noise in your photos

Reducing noise is an important skill to learn in real estate photo editing. If you’ve taken photos of a cozy living space in the evening, you might notice graininess due to low light.

Reducing noise helps create a cleaner, more polished look. Well-lit, sharp images convey warmth and comfort, which are essential in real estate. This creates a positive atmosphere for potential buyers.

steps to reduce noise and enhance clarity

  1. First, open your image in Adobe Photoshop and make a copy of the layer to keep the original safe. To reduce noise, go to the top menu, click on Filter, then select Noise and Reduce Noise.
  2. A new window will pop up with sliders to adjust. Start by setting the Strength slider to about 50 to help remove noise. Next, adjust the Preserve Details slider to around 50-70 to keep important details sharp.
  3. If you notice colorful spots, like green or red dots, use the Reduce Color Noise slider to eliminate them. If your picture is a JPEG, check the Remove JPEG Artifacts box for a cleaner look.
  4. As you make changes, be sure to check the Preview box to see how your picture looks and changes in real time. After reducing noise, you may want to sharpen the image by going to Filter, then Sharpen, and selecting Unsharp Mask.

For even more help with noise reduction, consider using special programs like Adobe Lightroom. By applying these real estate photo editing techniques, you can make your pictures look clearer and more beautiful, especially for real estate photography!

Polishing photos to perfection

Imagine you’re showcasing a kitchen with beautiful countertops, but there are visible scratches or stains. Such imperfections can ruin a perfectly good photo, and fixing them will enhance the listing quality and buyer experience.

By smoothing out these flaws, you make this given kitchen–or any other space for that matter–look fresh and well-maintained. This attention to detail makes the space more attractive to clients who have an eye for noticing faults and value high-quality finishes.

getting rid of image imperfections

As mentioned above, fixing imperfections in photos is a vital element among real estate photo editing techniques.

Start by opening your photo in Photoshop and create a copy of the layer to protect the original.

  1. Select the Healing Brush Tool (the band-aid icon) or press J on your keyboard. Adjust the brush size using the square brackets ** and **. Hold the Alt key (or Option on a Mac) and click a clean area of the photo to sample it.
  2. Then, gently paint over the imperfections to blend them in. For larger flaws, use the Patch Tool. Draw around the mistake and drag it to a better area.
  3. Zoom in for details by pressing Ctrl + + (or Cmd + + on a Mac). Zoom out to check your overall edits. Once satisfied, save your work by going to File > Save As.

Remember to always work on a copied layer to protect the original. If needed, try the Clone Stamp Tool for more complex fixes.

effortless enhancement with artificial intelligence

As mentioned, in today’s competitive market, improving your real estate photos is essential. If you’d rather not work with Photoshop, we have a simpler solution at hand. At AI HomeDesign, we’ve developed a tool specifically designed to enhance property photo quality.

All you need to do is upload a photo to AI HomeDesign’s Image Enhancement service and wait to see the AI magic happen right in front of your eyes in less than 30 seconds! Our advanced AI algorithms adjust lighting, refine details, and boost clarity. Rest assured that your photos will stand out with stunning vibrancy and precision.

real estate photo editing

High Time for Next-Level Enhancement!

With the techniques mentioned above, you can retouch your images for a polished result. However, that’s not the end! After standardizing the image through retouching, it’s time to improve the quality further with other photo editing factors, which are rather vast and ever-growing.

Every time a creative editor sits at their desk, they can discover new methods. However, as real estate consultants, your goal isn’t to compete with professional editors. The focus should be on making your listings look professional and boost sales. Let’s take a look at the techniques that can help you achieve these goals!

Understanding the power of light

Lighting as one of these real estate photo editing techniques has a great impact on photo quality. By using light optimally, you can highlight what matters most in your images.

Adjusting lighting helps convey the true spirit of the space and guides the audience’s perception. Without proper lighting, the balance between shadows and colors is lost. In such cases, the best impression you can leave on your audience is often minimal.

adjusting the exposure

Adjusting exposure in Photoshop is about finding the right balance of light in your photos.

  1. To start, open your image and go to Image > Adjustments > Exposure. Use the “Exposure” slider to brighten or darken the entire image.
  2. Gently adjust the “Offset” to enhance the shadows and mid-tones.
  3. Finally, tweak “Gamma Correction” to control the overall brightness. This technique keeps important details visible in both highlights and shadows, making your property photos look inviting.

highlights adjustment

Highlight adjustment is crucial for recovering details in bright areas of your photo.

  1. Begin by selecting Image > Adjustments > Shadows/Highlights. Increase the “Highlight” slider to reduce overly bright areas, like windows or light fixtures. This change allows you to reveal important details often lost in overexposed spots.
  2. Adjust the “Shadows” slider to maintain balance in your photo. By doing this, you create a more natural look that highlights the beauty of your property.

shadow adjustment

Shadow adjustment helps reveal hidden details in darker areas of your image. This technique ensures your photo captures all aspects of your property beautifully.

  1. Stay in the Shadows/Highlights settings to make these changes. Move the “Shadows” slider to brighten dark parts of your photo, uncovering details that were hard to see.
  2. You can also enhance contrast by using Levels or Curves under Image > Adjustments.

Perfecting the perspective

Perspective issues and distortions are quite commonplace in property images. Even with all the real estate photo editing techniques, your work feels incomplete if it suffers from improper perspective.

As a rule of thumb, images of real estate should feature straight and parallel vertical lines. This alignment gives viewers a better feel for the space.

You can adjust perspective using lens correction and the Straightening filter for crooked lines. Using these lens correction tools is quite simple, and you can check out Adobe’s guide for assistance.

Color adjustment

Colors are key factors that affect the emotions conveyed by an image. You can modify them using the same real estate photo editing techniques mentioned in this blog.

To achieve a good color contrast, check the white balance and temperature settings to create natural colors. Correcting the white balance ensures that white appears neutral in your photos. This adjustment also helps accurately represent other colors in the image.

Ready to Elevate Listings!

In the competitive world of real estate, stunning visuals can truly set you apart. By mastering these real estate photo editing techniques, you can transform ordinary photos into captivating images that highlight a property’s potential.

Each step—from retouching to light adjustment to color correction—plays a crucial role in attracting buyers and leaving a lasting impression. Embrace these techniques and watch your real estate photos reach new heights.

Try: Virtual Staging

FAQs

While both retouching and editing improve images, retouching focuses on altering individual elements—like removing imperfections—while editing enhances the overall quality through adjustments like exposure correction, color adjustment, and cropping.
Key retouching techniques include spot removal to eliminate distractions, noise reduction to enhance image clarity, and fixing imperfections to ensure a polished appearance. These methods help create visually appealing images that attract potential buyers.
You can improve lighting by adjusting exposure, highlights, and shadows in photo editing software. Proper lighting conveys the true essence of the space and enhances the overall quality of your images, making them more inviting for viewers.
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real estate photo editing services
Real Estate Photography

Behind the Scenes: How Various Photo Editing Practices Enhance Property Sales

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

Just as a well-polished gemstone catches the eye without fail, so too can a flawlessly edited real estate photo captivate a buyer’s attention. In a market where first impressions are everything, even the smallest imperfection can cloud a property’s true potential.

In this article, we’re discussing the five best and most essential real estate photo editing services that you can use to handle such imperfections, take real estate photos to the next level, and turn an ordinary listing into a show-stopping, must-see property. Let’s begin!

Virtual Staging: Potential on a Silver Platter

No wise artist takes a blank canvas to an art gallery. True, a handful of avant-garde visitors might be imaginative enough to gaze at the canvas and paint it in their minds. However, with other paintings around, the majority won’t bother doing so.

The same situation applies to showcasing an unfurnished property on a multiple listing service. Such properties look far less attractive than staged ones, hence receiving less attention than they deserve. Meanwhile, not many sellers can afford the high costs of physical home staging. That’s why they opt for virtual staging to meet buyers’ expectations while staying within budget.

By virtually staging a property, you’ll let the buyers appreciate the potential of the space and envision themselves living there. And don’t worry about those buyers who, for God knows what reason, prefer to see the rooms unfurnished. You can easily display an unfurnished version of each room alongside the staged photo. That’s why virtual staging is probably the most important of all real estate photo editing services.

virtual staging

Image Enhancement: Nothing Short of Crystal Clear

In photography, clarity comes with careful attention to detail. Every photo tends to have a layer of imperfections you’d rather not live with. Some common examples include poor lighting, distracting shadows, reflections on surfaces, or smudges on windows.

These small distractions need to be cleaned up to present your listing at its best. For this purpose, you should find reliable real estate photo editing services to get rid of those imperfections for you.

With hundreds of companies offering image enhancement services, finding the best fit for your needs requires some research. So, make sure to learn how to choose the right real estate photo editing company to ensure the highest quality results.

image enhancement

Item Declutter: Remove What You (Un)Desire

Who wishes to appear at an important meeting with wrinkled clothes, scuffed shoes, or unkempt hair? Hard to imagine anyone would! The desire to look presentable in public is a natural human instinct. The same uneasy feeling we get when seeing a disheveled person haunts us when encountering a property that’s dirty or in disarray. That’s why you should make sure a property looks its absolute best before being listed.

However, mistakes happen, and agents sometimes overlook certain items that can damage the overall appearance. A stained trash can, stacks of papers, worn-out curtains, and toiletries are just a few things that can derail the attention of potential buyers!

All is not lost, though! Real estate photo editing services to the rescue. Instead of shooting the property again, you can digitally remove those items to present a polished and attractive version of the place. To do so, you can either use photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop–which does have a learning curve, mind you–or go for AI item removal.

The first option requires some practice and takes a few hours, whereas the latter allows you to achieve the same result in less than a minute. A platform like AI HomeDesign enables you to declutter your whole space in one click or mask and remove certain items while keeping other items intact.

item removal

Day-to-Dusk: Control The Skies

While location, price, property condition, and neighborhood amenities matter to buyers, these aren’t what they look for at first glance. The very first thing they notice on a listing is the cover photo of that listing. Only after being drawn in by the photo do they squint at the description below and decide if it’s worth exploring further.

Just like a compelling opening line in a lengthy novel that pulls the reader in, that first photo needs to grab attention and give viewers every reason to stay and explore further. Here, real estate photo editing services come in handy again, as they should.

This is where day-to-dusk works its magic! Day-to-dusk, sometimes referred to as virtual twilight, is a real estate photo editing technique where daylight photos are refined to resemble a sunset or an early evening glow. This subtle touch adds to the appeal of your listing and urges the buyers to take a closer look.

day to dusk

Virtual Tours: Bring It All to Life

Ever tried a virtual reality headset? Experienced the shock and fear of falling from a bridge or holding onto a loose rope? No matter how many times you reminded yourself it was just a game, for a moment, you likely forgot you were sitting in a chair and felt as though you were plummeting or gripping for dear life.

That’s the power of virtual reality; giving you the real experience of doing something without actually doing it. This same immersive effect has made virtual tours one of the most effective real estate photo editing services that agents love and buyers adore.

Virtual tours give house hunters a walk-through experience right from the comfort of their computers. Using specialized cameras, photographers capture 360-degree images of properties, and photo editors sequence them to create an interactive, immersive experience. This allows potential buyers to explore every corner of the property and get a realistic sense of its layout and details all without stepping foot inside.

Time to Elevate Your Game!

These five services are the most influential, and crucial, real estate photo editing services that directly affect property sales. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal of homes on property listings, but they also help potential buyers envision the space as they wish, pushing them closer to making a deal.

If your listing doesn’t receive the amount of attention it deserves, don’t put the blame entirely on market conditions. It might just be about polishing a few photos and turning the page to a happy ending.

FAQs

The cost of editing real estate photos varies depending on the provider you select. Typically, AI-powered photo editing tools are more cost-effective compared to companies that use human editors. While most providers charge separately for each service, platforms like AI HomeDesign offer a fixed price, regardless of the service type.
It depends on the tool you choose and the quality of your photos. With a well-trained AI tool and decent-quality images, you can trust that the outcome will be both polished and professional. Use free trial offers to see for yourself before committing to a paid service. Remember, always test real estate photo editing services before making any payments.
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best cameras for real estate photography
Real Estate Photography

Top 10 Best Cameras for Real Estate Photography in 2024

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

Real estate photography plays a key part in attracting potential buyers and closing deals faster. A camera for realtors with excellent resolution, versatility, and ease of use can significantly enhance the quality of photos and, in turn, the visuals of property listings.

Near the end of 2024, we have several outstanding camera options with unique features tailored to capture stunning property images. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the top 10 cameras for real estate photography in 2024, providing detailed insights to help you find the camera that best suits your needs.

Read More: Real Estate Photo Editing

Features to Unlock Potentials

Before jumping in and introducing the best cameras for real estate photography, let’s take a look at the key features that matter greatly when selecting a camera for stunning property pictures:

  • Wide-angle lens compatibility: To have the best cameras for real estate photography, take a moment and check how wide-angle the lenses are. You can take expansive and inviting images by showcasing the full breadth and depth of space using such lenses.
  • High resolution: With a high megapixel count, you can take images that won’t lose clarity if you crop or enlarge the virtual images, giving you much greater freedom when the time comes to use those images.
  • Low-light performance: For bright and clear real estate images, always consider cameras with quality low-light performance so that your camera can produce pictures in such dimly lit conditions.
  • Dynamic range: This range refers to light and color perception. A large dynamic range makes photographing a room’s brighter and darker spots easier, creating a realistic and well-balanced image.
  • Tilt screen: To take photos from various perspectives, the tilt screen quality facilitates taking the ideal picture without requiring difficult body poses.
  • Stability and portability: As a photographer, you need to carry around your arsenal like your life depends on it! The best cameras for real estate photography must have a reasonable maximum weight to make them both portable and stable.
  • Autofocus: To have a quick and accurate focus for sharp images, a camera with an autofocus system helps lock onto subjects effortlessly and precisely.
  • Ease of use: Cameras are complicated tools, but they shouldn’t require exceptional expertise to operate! For a smooth experience with shooting, choose a camera that is easy to handle and operate.
Read More: Real Estate Video Apps

10 Best Cameras for Real Estate Photography

1. Canon EOS R5

Canon EOS R5 for real estate photography

At the top of our list of best cameras for real estate photography is the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV which is guaranteed to produce excellent images.

With its 45-megapixel full-frame sensor to provide outstanding resolution and detail, the Canon EOS R5 definitely stands out. The camera also supports 8K video recording, making it versatile for photos and videos.

To capture detailed images of properties, this option offers an advanced autofocus system to ensure sharp and precise focus and make it easier to shoot in various lighting conditions.

This camera is probably the best choice for professionals who require high-quality images and versatility. Besides, its high resolution can showcase intricate details of luxury properties.

pros and cons

  • The EOS R5 offers superior image quality and dynamic range, making it ideal for high-resolution real estate photography.
  • Some buyers criticize the camera for its high price.

2. Nikon Z7 II

Nikon Z7 II for real estate photography

The Nikon Z7 II is one of the best brands with high demand in the market for its top-tier image qualities and impressive autofocus system.

The camera features a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor and dual EXPEED 6 processors. This high-sensory quality enables you to capture impressive images that benefit from the camera’s impressively high processing capacity.

This brand camera is among the best cameras for real estate photography due to its 4K video recording and advanced autofocus quality.

If taking detailed shots of properties is your top priority, don’t hesitate to buy this camera.

pros and cons

  • The high image resolution and robust performance of the Nikon Z7 II have satisfied scores of buyers and garnered impressive praise.
  • Some users, however, criticize the slightly bulky design of the camera.

3. Sony A7R IV

Sony A7R IV for real estate photography

We can’t talk about the best cameras for real estate photography without considering the Sony A7R IV. This lightweight camera features impressive image quality and color rendition.

The Sony A7R IV offers unparalleled image detail and clarity due to its impressive 61-megapixel full-frame sensor. The camera is famous for fast hybrid autofocus and 4K video recording capabilities.

If you are one of those photographers specializing in high-end property listings, you can capture the highest level of detail and resolution with this impressive piece of photography hardware.

pros and cons

  • Buyers are so satisfied with the image quality and detail the A7R IV offers.
  • However, quality doesn’t come cheap, and this camera has a high price as some users suggested.
  • Some other – ahem… amateur – users also complain about the extensive feature set of the cameras they found overwhelming.

4. Fujifilm X-T5

Fujifilm X-T5 for real estate photography

The weather-resistant Fujifilm is an ideal example of a one-size-fits-all motto! It never fails you! Whether you want to take photos in a freezing blizzard, a scorching hot day, or a pouring rainstorm, the camera always works.

With a compact design, the Fujifilm X-T5 features a 40-megapixel APS-C sensor and offers excellent color reproduction. The camera offers advanced color processing and versatility in various lighting conditions.

This camera is suitable for real estate professionals looking for a portable and easy-to-use camera while keeping image quality at a high level. It’s an ideal choice if you are looking to take vibrant and accurate colors in your photos.

pros and cons

  • Buyers always appreciate how the compact size of this camera makes it highly portable.
  • The X-T5 gets good comments for its color accuracy and handling.
  • Some buyers criticize the camera’s performance in low light compared to full-frame cameras.

5. Panasonic Lumix S1R

Panasonic Lumix S1R for real estate photography

Some call the Panasonic S1R the “big brother” to the Lumix G9, for its excellently professional-level features, including high-quality, high-resolution image processing and production.

The Panasonic Lumix S1R is known for a 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor. The camera features a high-resolution mode that captures exceptionally detailed images. It also supports 4K video recording. This camera is ideal for real estate photographers looking for high-resolution images and flexibility in their shooting options.

pros and cons

  • The S1R offers high-resolution and versatile shooting options for users.
  • The large size and heavy weight have made the camera less convenient for some users.

6. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III for real estate photography

This pro-level performance camera can take the tick for every box in your list if you are looking for a complete pack of lightweight, weather-sealed, compact camera that comes with many more options.

With its unique sensor quality, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III features a 20.4-megapixel and in-body image stabilization. Due to its compact design, the camera is among the best cameras in the real estate photography industry for being highly portable and user-friendly.

This camera is perfect for those real estate agents who need a lightweight and versatile option for photography. The portability and stabilization of the camera help real estate professionals to easily handhold the camera when shooting in various conditions.

pros and cons

  • The camera is loved by users for its in-body image stabilization and portability.
  • Some users are not satisfied with its lower resolution compared to full-frame sensors in certain situations.

7. Leica SL2

Leica SL2 for real estate photography

This German camera won’t let you down when it comes to premium lenses that allow for producing high-quality images. The Leica SL2 comes with a 47-megapixel full-frame sensor. The camera has a reputation for its exceptional build quality and image clarity, and it also supports 4K video recording.

This camera is suitable for real estate professionals seeking a robust and high-quality camera for photography. For demanding shooting environments, its build and image quality make it well-suited for real estate.

pros and cons

  • Users prefer the SL2 for its outstanding image quality and durability.
  • The camera is designed for real estate users who value top-tier performance and build.
  • The high price tag of the camera, though, needs some budgetary consideration!

8. Canon EOS 90D

Canon EOS 90D for real estate photography

No wonder we put this camera among the best cameras for real estate photography! The Canon EOS 90D is especially popular for its highest-resolution APS-C DSLR.

This Canon camera boasts a 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor and Dual Pixel autofocus. The camera also offers 4K video recording and a head-spinning range of advanced features.

It’s ideal for real estate professionals who need a cost-effective solution with good image quality and performance, well-suited for real estate agents who require a reliable camera without breaking the bank.

pros and cons

  • The buyers consider the EOS 90D for a good balance of performance and cost.
  • Some users complain about limited wide-angle capabilities.
  • The camera lacks the full-frame sensor of some higher-end models.

9. Nikon D850

Nikon D850 for real estate photography

You can call the D850 the ultimate “do everything” camera for real estate photographers. The Nikon D850 comes with a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor and excellent dynamic range. The camera’s versatile choice for real estate photography is for its rugged build and comprehensive features.

This camera is perfect for photographers who need a high-resolution camera for real estate photography. Its top-tier quality and image performance make it a solid choice for pro photographers in this industry.

pros and cons

  • The D850 offers high detail and durability.
  • It’s ideal for professionals who are looking for a reliable and high-performing DSLR.
  • The camera is bulkier and heavier than some newer models.

10. Sony Alpha A6600

Sony Alpha A6600 for real estate photography

With a widely accepted reputation for being among the best cameras for real estate photography, the Sony A6600 has most notably a long-lasting battery life and is capable of producing some excellent shots.

The Sony Alpha A6600 features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor with fast autofocus capabilities. The camera is popular for its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle. This camera is ideal for those real estate photographers who need a lightweight option for shooting various properties.

pros and cons

  • The A6600 offers good performance in a compact form.
  • The camera’s resolution is lower than some full-frame options.
  • It doesn’t work well for very low-light conditions.
Read More: Real Estate Photo Editing Companies

Compare and Choose!

In the table below, we highlight the key features along with some other criteria including resolution, sensor type, and weight, making it easier for you to select the one that meets your expectations and preferences.

compare best cameras for real estate

One Last Look

Choosing the most suitable camera for real estate photography is crucial to stand out in the pool of property listings. At the same time, it’s quite a difficult decision since you’re paying a notable sum of money for a camera that will be with you for the foreseeable future.

That’s why, in this article, we highlighted the 10 best cameras for real estate photography and their strengths. Each camera mentioned here will probably do the job for you, but the best choice depends on your specific preferences. Using this guideline, you can closely consider the features that matter most for your photography style and ultimate goals.

FAQs

Numerous features must be taken into account, but make sure you observe these features when choosing a camera for real estate photography:
  • Consider sensor size and image resolution for high-quality images;
  • Check shutter speed for capturing ever sharper images; and,
  • Have a look at the aperture to understand the depth of the photos you are going to capture.
Brands like Nikon and Canon are among the most popular professional cameras thanks to their high resolution and reliability. For example, the Nikon Z7 II and Canon EOS R5 remain among the best cameras for real estate photography.
Both mirrorless cameras and DSLRs can work well for real estate photography. For instance, the Sony a7 III, as an excellent mirrorless camera, offers great image quality. On the other hand, the Nikon D85, a DSLR, is known for its durability and battery life.
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real estate video apps
Real Estate Photography

Top 5 Real Estate Video Apps in 2024

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

What are the most popular social media platforms? Make your guesses and then see if you put a finger on a shared feature. You’ll notice that most of these platforms are heavily reliant on video content. It doesn’t take much to notice that the human race as a whole now tends to favor video content everywhere!

That is exactly why real estate agents have turned to video tours as a way of showcasing properties more effectively. A recent study on video marketing in real estate reveals that listings with video tours receive four times more showings than those without one!

So, whether you’re a real estate agent trying to attract more buyers or a real estate photographer aiming to provide your clients with better services, you must know how to create engaging video tours, and here is your guide to the top 5 real estate video apps that you can use for this purpose.

Read More: Real Estate Photo Editing
Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro environment

Our first pick among the best real estate video apps is Adobe Premiere Pro. Boasting a long and specialized line of graphic and editing software, Adobe Premiere Pro is a powerful video editing software that can be of great use to anyone, especially real estate professionals looking to create captivating property videos.

Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most detailed and professional video editing apps today, and it allows you to virtually do anything to a video you can think of.

Using this video editing app, among hundreds of other functions and actions, you can:

  • Edit and trim footage;
  • Incorporate eye-catching effects;
  • Animate titles and graphics;
  • Balance color and grading; and,
  • Mix and enhance audio.

The software’s advanced color correction and grading features enable agents to enhance the visual appeal of their properties, while the high-tech audio mixing tool helps ensure that soundtracks and dialogues are crystal clear.

The app offers a free trial so that users can have a hands-on experience before making a purchase. There are perhaps only two issues with Adobe Premiere Pro: One, it has a demanding system requirement. Two, working with Adobe Premiere Pro requires a notable level of experience and familiarity with the app itself!

Read More: Real Estate Virtual Staging

adobe premier pricing

Submagic

Submagic

submagic environment

Submagic is another wonderful program among the top 5 real estate video apps that equips agents with a multitude of features, including:

  • Clip maker;
  • Sound effects;
  • Trimming;
  • Captions;
  • Background music; and,
  • Auto description.

On the Submagic website, you can find a dozen free-to-use features that help you create video content for YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. But perhaps the best thing about this tool is that it is AI-driven, meaning that you can create your videos regardless of your system’s features.

When visiting their website, make sure to click the Use Cases tab and scroll down to the real estate section. There, you can see how other agents are making the best use of this app.

Unfortunately, Submagic doesn’t offer a free trial, and you need to choose from their three monthly plans. Nonetheless, the real estate samples will give you an idea about what’s possible with this app.

Submagic pricing plan

Promo

promo app environment

Those looking for a customizable platform that enables them to create or edit real estate videos should definitely find a place for Promo among their arsenal of real estate video apps. This AI-powered video editing tool allows agents to:

  • Create virtual tours or GIFs;
  • Cut or edit videos;
  • Make slideshows and add audio to them;
  • Crop or resize images and videos; and,
  • Add text to their videos.

These are just some of the applications of this tool. Promo has thousands of stock photos and pre-built video templates that you can use for creating ads on social media. The website provides excellent tutorials on how to use each feature for better effect.

However, you might find Promo’s pricing a bit high!

promo pricing

VEED video app

VEED

veed app environment

Their motto is “Create videos like professionals without the pro skills,” and that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether you’re creating a virtual tour for your next listing or a simple Instagram post to entice more buyers on your socials, VEED can be a top choice among real estate video apps. Using this app, you can:

  • Merge and edit videos;
  • Create GIFs;
  • Trim or crop videos;
  • Add captions to your files; and,
  • Convert text to speech.

One special feature that agents would find fascinating is the video generator which is excellent for creating social ads. All you need to do is log in to your account and give VEED a prompt. Seconds later, you’ll see your ideas turned into dynamic visuals! That’ll probably be the most magical use of AI you’ve had! Once the video is ready, you can add text or audio to the file and post it on your social media. Do that and enjoy the Voila moment!

So, instead of posting something like “Leave your house to us, and we’ll sell it in no time,” you can post a video that has an intriguing storyline and conveys the same message! To top it all off, VEED offers three pricing plans that suit every pocket!

veed app pricing plan

Magisto app

Magisto

Magisto environment

Do you want to remove the background noise from your real estate video or maybe improve the lighting? Or perhaps you wish to convert the video format or insert some photos into it? Magisto does all these for you and more in a minute.

Some of the key features you’ll find on Magisto are:

  • Video editor;
  • GIF maker;
  • Video merger;
  • Noise removal; and,
  • Script generator.

Thanks to its intuitive interface and the vast library of templates, Magisto helps you create engaging videos without needing professional skills. You can install the app on your desktop or mobile (iOS & Android) to create your videos or take advantage of their new Vimeo AI feature to create projects online.

The free version of Magisto allows users to create and edit videos and record their screens. There are also three types of paid plans available for those looking to have a subscription.

Read More: Real Estate Item Removal

Next Level Visuals Around the Corner

There are probably hundreds of real estate video apps on the market but most of them are either very complex or lack essential features. To create stunning virtual tours or other types of video content, you honestly don’t need to go over the top and spend a hefty budget for filming and editing!

All you have to do is to use a reliable video app that is highly functional and, at the same time, easy to work with. Depending on your profession and the type of videos you intend to create, you can make use of the apps introduced in this blog. You have the 5 real estate video apps in front of you. All that remains is to get online, visit their websites, and start experimenting with these video services that can completely transform the way you present properties to potential customers.

FAQs

All the apps introduced above have a range of features to enhance video creation and editing, but Promo stands out with the most extensive feature set that real estate agents can use to create highly professional videos.
All video editing apps provide built-in tutorials that help you learn how to work with the tool. Also, there are tutorials for such apps on YouTube that you can watch. All in all, don’t worry a second about learning the ropes. It’s much easier than you think!
Though all social media sites have the potential to help your real estate business grow, when it comes to video content, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are particularly effective. Mind you, it’s not reasonable to focus any and all efforts on social media. House buyers and potential tenants do go online and look around different social media, but buying a house or renting out a place doesn’t happen through DMs, so, in addition to social media, make sure you have a notable preference in your immediate communities and listing sites.
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real estate photo editing companies
Real Estate Photography

How to Choose the Right Real Estate Photo Editing Company for Your Needs in 2024?

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

Time and again, day-in-day-out, we’ve reminded you that in real estate, first impressions are everything. Buyers and potential tenants spend ungodly amounts of time online, sifting through hundreds of listings to find the house closest to their expectations. The quality of your listing photos can make a sale or send you home empty-handed.

But not everyone’s a seasoned photo editor, and very, very few sellers and agents can undertake different photo editing projects on their own. Enter real estate photo editing companies: They specialize in various photo editing services unique to the real estate industry. But how can you make sure they will deliver on their promises and advertisements?

Why Real Estate Photo Editing?

Online property listings are the first place that house hunters turn to when looking for rental or for-sale properties. But it’s not like all listed properties there get equal attention.

The decisive factor here is how appealing each property looks, and this is where real estate photo editing comes into play. A surprising report by Redfin in 2021 revealed that 63% of buyers made offers on properties before visiting them in person, merely relying on photos and virtual tours attached to the listings!

Though we may not generalize this to all listings and buyers, we can at least draw one conclusion, one that’s quite obvious but seemingly overlooked by many realtors: The more appealing your listing photos are, the more buyers are likely to engage with your property.

Why Real Estate Photo Editing?

Find the Best Real Estate Photo Editing Company

Okay, so we’ve established the importance of using photo editing services for real estate. The question is, who can you trust to help fulfill your photo editing needs when it carries such importance? Keep reading to learn how you can find the most suitable real estate photo editing companies.

List your needs and expectations

As a real estate agent, your first task is to list your needs and expectations regarding listing requirements. Some real estate photo editing companies are highly restricted in terms of their services. Others provide a variety of services but you might find their pricing or turnaround time unfitted. So, by needs and expectations, we mean material, budget, time, resources, style, and so on.

Depending on the type of properties you sell and the budget you usually consider for marketing those properties, you can make a list of services that will elevate your marketing efforts. This way, you’ll know which providers to prioritize.

If, for instance, you list several properties per week, you’ll need a company that returns your photos within a couple of hours or even less, not a day or two! Similarly, when your marketing budget is limited, you can’t go for overpriced services.

Do a thorough research

In most cases, we usually have a friend who has a friend who knows a good provider. “I know a guy who knows a guy,” right? In most cases, we end up hating ourselves for listening to the guy! Don’t just fall for the first name you hear.

Make a list of the providers you find via a thorough internet search. See what others have said about these companies on review websites such as Trustpilot and social platforms like Reddit, Facebook, etc. This way, you can compare their strengths, weaknesses, and overall customer satisfaction levels to ensure you choose a provider that meets all your expectations. At the end of the day, you should be another happy customer willing to leave a word.

Value your time and money

Make sure to take a good look at the pricing plans offered by the providers you have on your list. Just don’t get overwhelmed by the large differences you’re about to see! Passing no judgment on any provider or the criteria behind their pricing plans, just make sure you’re not overpaying!

In terms of turnaround times, we must first make a distinction between the two types of real estate photo editing companies. Some service providers still rely on human editors, while others have integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into their workflows. Let’s refer to the first type as traditional photo editing and the second as AI photo editing.

Picking a traditional photo editing company entails more waiting. In fact, such companies have a turnaround time of 24-48 hours, if not more! With AI photo editing, however, editing a single photo takes no more than a minute, and, in case you choose a company with reliable AI services, it shouldn’t. This is just something to have in the back of your mind!

time and money in real estate photo editing

Test all the candidates

Gathering information about different providers is a must, but it’s not enough! Most real estate photo editing companies gift a few credits (enough to edit one or two photos) when a user creates an account on their website. So, why not test them and get a first-hand experience? This is a great opportunity and a pretty hands-on experience to see everything for yourself.

When trying out different services, it’s a good idea to use the same photo when comparing providers. Say, for example, you want to stage a bedroom. With AI-driven platforms, you can upload a photo on different platforms, choose your desired service (as similar as it can be on different platforms), and wait a bit to get the result. With traditional photo editing companies, you may have to wait a few hours before they return the photo.

Putting those photos next to one around, you’ll learn a lot about the service quality of each provider. This way, you can make the right decision!

And look for the most complete package!

If you’re just a one-time user, you probably don’t care much about intricate details of services offered by real estate photo editing companies! So, it won’t matter much if the company you’re choosing has a limited number of services. But if, for example, you’re a real estate agent or an interior designer with lots of properties and spaces on your hands, you have to make sure that the company you are choosing will meet all your needs in the long run.

For your current project, you might be looking for a photo enhancement service, but for the next one, you may need other services such as item removal or virtual twilight! So, better to choose a company that has a comprehensive package than to work with several companies that offer one or two services each!

Consider AI HomeDesign for Your Photo Editing Projects

Take a second look at your list of expectations. The services you need, your budget, turnaround time, various layouts and styles, different audiences, etc. Then have a look at our services. You can notice that AI HomeDesign has one of the most complete packages that real estate agents, design lovers, and a myriad of stakeholders across the entire real estate industry could ask for.

As far as real estate photo editing is concerned, we offer services such as virtual staging (both AI and manual), item removal, virtual twilight, and photo enhancement more suited to realtors and their agencies. Interior designers, on the other hand, can use features like AI interior design and AI furniture set restyle for inspiration. We also offer a set of home renovation services that you can use for your renovation projects, including wall change, ceiling change, backsplash, under-construction renders, and more.

With AI HomeDesign, you’ll experience a whole new definition of cost-efficiency. Editing a photo on AI HomeDesign, no matter what service you choose, costs between a mere $0.24 to a humble max of $1.60 depending on the plan you choose.

Last but not least, you can use several services but pay only once. What does that mean exactly? Say you use our item removal service to declutter a living room. You can then stage the same living room using our virtual staging service or enhance the quality of your photo free of charge! All done in under a minute.

If you’re not still sure whether AI HomeDesign is the right fit, you can easily try our services for free. Just sign up, get your 3 free credits, and try any service you want. No hidden fees. No credit card required!

ai homedesign real estate photo editing

Easier Said Than Done, Though Perfectly Possible

In today’s competitive real estate market, the quality of your listing photos can significantly influence buyer interest. Real estate photo editing is not just a luxury; it’s an essential tool for enhancing property appeal and attracting potential buyers.

While finding the most suitable real estate photo editing companies may seem daunting amidst various options and considerations, it’s entirely achievable with a structured approach. By defining your needs, conducting thorough research, and testing potential providers, you can confidently choose a company that enhances your property listings effectively.

Remember, investing in high-quality editing services not only attracts more buyers but also streamlines your marketing efforts. Start by exploring the 3 free trial photos offered on AI HomeDesign to experience the benefits firsthand.

Your properties deserve the best presentation to capture the attention they need. With careful selection, achieving stunning property visuals that stand out in online listings becomes not just a goal, but a practical reality.

FAQs

The most common services provided by real estate photo editing companies are: However, some companies offer a broader range of services such as:
  • Interior renovation;
  • Wall/Ceiling/Backsplash/Floor change
  • Post-staging enhancements;
  • Floor plans;
  • 360° virtual tours; and,
  • Real estate video editing.
For a perfect listing, agents are advised to use the main four services listed above and opt for various other secondary editing services to gain the upper hand with superior listings. But speaking based on numbers, agents use virtual staging and item removal more often.
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HDR in real estate photography
Real Estate Photography

Step-by-Step Guide to Using HDR in Real Estate Photography

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

A Sacred Technique in Real Estate Photography

Showcasing a property at its best is what every real estate photographer seeks and many of them have achieved this through High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography. It is a highly valued technique among real estate photographers as It enables them to record more nuanced details within the shadowy areas that would otherwise appear as solid black or featureless, It also allows them to depict more nuanced details and information within the bright, highlighted areas that may have otherwise appeared overly exposed or washed out with white. In this blog, we will provide a step-by-step guide to using HDR in real estate photography.

Read More: Real Estate Photography Tips

What is HDR in Real Estate Photography?

HDR photography involves shooting several photos of the same space at different exposure levels that range from underexposed to overexposed. The images are later merged to create a single photograph that has a broader dynamic range of light and detail.

Apart from enabling photographers to accurately replicate real-life color and contrast in their photos, this technique improves the depth and richness of the photo, allowing them to capture delicate details in the brightest and darkest parts of the scene (even in shadows). Then, by balancing exposure levels, the photographer ensures that the final image presents the full spectrum of light, offering a more accurate and vivid depiction of the given space.

In other words, the higher the dynamic range your camera has, the closer the photo will compare to what an eye can see. Now let’s see how it’s done.

Tips for Capturing HDR Photos in Real Estate Photography

Use a tripod

To capture multiple photos of the same space you need to fix the camera on a tripod. Otherwise, you’d have to stay motionless in the same place and take the photos manually! This is doable, but your hand will most likely shake a little while adjusting the exposure settings resulting in poor alignment of lines and shades in the final photo.

Set your camera on auto-bracketing mode

Exposure level in photography refers to the level of brightness and darkness in the photo. You can set your camera to take overly bright or dark photos.

When you put a camera on auto-bracketing mode, it will automatically change the exposure level every time it takes a new photo. If the camera doesn’t have this feature, you’d have to adjust the exposure level manually.

Employ the focus stacking technique

Another technique that helps with taking great HDR images is focus stacking. Just as you can adjust your camera to shoot with different levels of exposure, you can adjust it to have various focal points. When capturing ten photos of the same scene, each focusing on a different point, merging them will result in a final image with ten focal points!

Use a remote trigger

Most modern cameras have built-in timers that enable the photographer to choose the time interval between each shot. In case your camera doesn’t have this feature, try using a remote trigger to minimize the risk of camera shake or movement between the shots.

Shoot in RAW format

When practicing HDR in real estate photography, it’s best if you shoot in a RAW format as this is the only format that allows your camera’s sensor to directly process the files. Besides, RAW images contain more information compared to other formats.

Use the right software to merge the photos

There are a couple of well-known photo editing software you can use for merging the photos. Adobe Photoshop, Luminar Neo, and Adobe Lightroom are among the most practical ones. If you are using Adobe Lightroom, you can use this tutorial to learn how to merge the photos.

Read More: Real Estate Photo Editing

Maintain a natural look

Using HDR in real estate photography requires maintaining a natural look. Over-processing an image will only deter house hunters as it will look somewhat artificial on property listings. Remember, the idea behind HDR, at least in the context of real estate, is to present the best picture of a space, not an unrealistic one!

Using HDR in real estate photography

Keep a balanced tone

To maintain that natural look, you can use a technique called tone mapping. Simply put, tone mapping is a processing technique that converts one set of colors and tones into a different set. Using this technique, you can adjust the brightness and contrast in your HDR images so that they look realistic.

Don’t overlook small details

When editing your HDR images, you might easily lose sight of subtle imperfections. There might be some noise in one corner, or one spot might be too dark or too bright! Paying close attention to such details and dealing with them will ensure a perfect final result that will nicely showcase the place.

In conclusion

Using HDR in real estate photography will give you a competitive edge among real estate photographers. True; it might be a time-consuming and delicate practice, but it will enhance the quality of your projects which means you’ll be among the top choices of real estate agents.

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Real estate photography tips
Real Estate Photography

How to Capture Perfect Real Estate Photos: A Beginner’s Guide

by Tan Tason
written by Tan Tason

Photos That Speak!

First impressions always matter and more so when it comes to showcasing properties on real estate listings. A couple of photos that determine whether or not a potential buyer will look for the agents’ contact info or scroll down to the next listing! To make that good impression, you as a photographer, have some homework to do! In this blog, we will discuss some essential real estate photography tips that will help you take stunning photos that amaze real estate agents and enchant house hunters beyond your expectations!

Shooting a Property for Listing

Good real estate photography requires having a perfect set of equipment. Without them, all your efforts would be in vain! As you gain more experience, you’ll learn quite a bit about the best gear you should have, For the starter, here’s what you can begin with.

High-tech camera

When it comes to buying a camera for real estate shooting, you may hear from professionals that Wide wide-angle lens cameras are the best! Well, that’s because such cameras give you a perfect view of your shots and allow you to shoot both manually and automatically. Besides, you can shoot narrow spaces with more ease making them look somewhat roomy!

Tripod

A tripod has at least three benefits. First, it allows you to set the camera in the right position. Some photos should be captured at a chest-level position. Others, at a lower or higher position. Second, it can be fit into tight corners where the photographer can’t fit. And third, it is steady. With no distortion or haze, due to sudden stirs of your hands, your photos will remain clear and sharply defined.

tripod for real estate photography

Flash

As a real estate photographer, you may sometimes find yourself in dimly lit settings. The space might not receive enough natural light or the ceiling could be too low. In such scenarios, you’d better have a camera flash in your gear.

Drone

To show buyers how great the property looks, agents prefer to provide them with a bird-eye view of the place. Such a view allows them to get a better sense of the neighborhood, how it can be accessed, and what attractions are located near it. So, although you may not use your drone for every project, you’d better be prepared.

Shooting the Property

Having the right equipment is just one part of the task. To do a clean job, you should also be careful with what you do before the shooting begins when you want to shoot the property, where you choose to set the camera, and so on. Let’s review the most important things you should do when shooting a property.

Declutter

Wherever you look for real estate photography tips, you’ll come across this one first! Other things aside, without proper decluttering, all your efforts will be in vain. A place must look neat and neutralized on a property listing to attract buyers.

Ask the agent or the owner to mob the floor, dust the furniture, clean the windows, and vacuum the carpets, if there are any, to make the place as calm and welcoming as possible. To neutralize it, move away any item that leaves a trace of the owner or anyone else! Family photos, a hunting gun, or even a typical children’s painting will suggest that “this place belongs to someone else” and that is not the thought you want to put into the viewers’ minds!

Virtual Decluttering

 

Choose the right time

First things first, never shoot a property on a rainy day. You’ll need the sun to light the interiors and give your photos some charm and appeal. On a sunny day, the best time to shoot is when the sun is positioned behind the house to ensure sufficient light inside.

Remember to shoot the exterior last when the sun is setting and there is a purple-yellow shade in the sky overcasting the property. This is the so-called golden hour in photography during which you can capture the best pics from the exterior of a property.

Check every corner before shooting

Before starting to shoot, make sure you check every room to decide on:

  • Where to put the camera
  • Whether or not you need artificial lighting
  • Which items should be removed or returned, and
  • The overall composition of the scene.

Detect the selling points

Every house has a selling point. For one house, it might be a big window overlooking a river, for another a fireplace mantle with intricately inscribed designs, and yet for another, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. And guess what? There are also hidden ones that need your sharp eyes to discover!
Your job as a real estate photographer is to detect such selling points and shoot them from the best angle. Capturing a property’s selling points attracts more attention to property listings and makes imperfections look less important.

Shoot from different angles

You never want to present an incomplete picture of a property. Those pictures are the only things house hunters base their decision-making on. Shooting the same space from various angles enables house hunters to get the most complete view of the house, hence letting them make a more informed decision.

Sometimes, after the shooting phase, you’ll realize that some of the photos have poor quality. Shooting the same room from different angles allows you to replace such photos with other ones you have of the same space.

Edit Your Photos

Good real estate photography tips always include “photo editing”. Not that your work is faulty, but it could always be better. Time and again, you’ll notice that some of your photos have noise in them or are a bit dark. Here are some of the valuable real estate photo editing techniques that you should consider with any project.

Virtual staging

If the rooms are empty when you shoot them, it’s better to stage them virtually. Virtual staging has several benefits for agents but suffice to say that it makes the property look more appealing. Without the agent’s consent, you can’t use this technique but still, it’s good to suggest it.

Read More: Benefits of Virtual staging

Day-to-Dusk

Remember that golden hour thing we talked about, a day-to-dusk effect will give that look to your exteriors regardless of the time you shot the photos. again, this a something to go for only when your agent allows it.

day to dusk

Photo enhancement

Photo enhancement means to improve the lighting, fix overshadowing, and remove the noise from your photos. If you want to do this manually, you’ll have to spend an hour or so, provided that you know how to do it, on editing each photo. A quicker way would be to use our AI HomeDesign’s image enhancement service which takes only 30 seconds to enhance each photo.

Item removal

Last but not least, there are times you notice certain items should be removed from the photo. Could be a piece of furniture or even a little doll that spoils the photo. AI HomeDesign’s item removal service clears your photos from such items in the blink of an eye!

Create a portfolio

You’re done with your project, but your own job just begins. Nothing gives credit to a real estate photographer better than a nice portfolio. Keep on mind to make a collection of your work and put it somewhere on your website or social media so that other people seeking a real estate photographer see how stunning your photos are!

FAQs

It all depends on you. Most photographers As a beginner, you might start by charging $100-$300 per project for shooting a typical average-sized property. As you gain more experience and get more clients, you can charge more.

Depends on the size of the property and how orderly things are there. Normally, shooting an average property that has been prepared earlier, shouldn’t take more than 3-4 hours, but for your first few projects, it’s alright if you spend more time. 

Absolutely, never agree to shoot a property without making sure that there are some obligations for the agent or the owner regarding our fee. Otherwise, you may never get a penny!

Doing one or two projects for free, in order to gain some experience wouldn’t hurt, but not more than that. If you feel that shooting a property for an agent helps you learn more, try at least charging them a bit so that they don’t judge you as a cheap photographer!  

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