Interior – ExpertPhotography

10 Services to Order the Best Canvas Prints Online in 2024

Nick Constant — Wed, 15 May 2024 09:01:52 +0000

We have compiled a list of the best websites for ordering the best canvas prints online. So whether you are looking for a high-quality service or one with a huge range of customization options, we have you covered.

When it comes to home decor, there’s nothing quite like a beautiful canvas print. Not only are they stylish, but they can also be a great way to showcase your personality and unique style.

Thanks to the ever-growing number of online printing services, getting your hands on canvas prints online has never been easier. But with so many different services, how do you know which is the best for you? Our top pick is CanvasPop, but read on to find out more.

High-Quality Prints

Canvaspop Canvas Printing

Looking for convenience and high-quality canvas prints online? Look no further than this top canvas printing store, offering a variety of sizes and materials to turn your photos into stunning works of art.

Where Can I Get the Best Canvas Prints Online?

Many print services online turn any picture into a canvas print (or other product). You can upload photos from your phone, computer, or social media. Canvas print service providers then turn it into a beautiful piece of art.

The best thing about these services is that you can get them in any size to fit your needs:

Small for everyday decoration
Medium-sized for a home interior design project
Large for an entire wall display

Some canvas print online services let you design your artwork. Other services let you upload an image they resize for you.

Canvas print services offer different types of canvases from which to choose. Options include framed, wrapped, mounted, and unmounted. And all these canvases have special laminates that help preserve your images.

“July by the River” by Jené Stephaniuk (Unsplash)

10 Best Services to Order Canvas Prints Online

Here are our top 10 recommended canvas print services.

1. CanvasPop

Pricing	Pricing Medium to high end
Ships To	Ships To US, Canada, EU
Delivery	Delivery 7 - 10 days
Key Services	Key Services Canvas, Framed, Collages, Tryptic, Tabletop, Cards, and Art prints
Best For	Best For Dedicated canvas printing but also has a wide range of print options

CanvasPop is a website that offers the best-quality canvas prints. It uses HD printing technology and high-quality materials to create durable yet affordable wall art for your home or office.

They have a wide selection of canvases, wooden frames, and other accessories. And they make it simple to customize your order with just a few clicks.

I am a fan of their simple interface. These websites can be overloaded with visual material that can be distracting. But CanvasPop does a great job of keeping random graphics to a minimum.

CanvasPop‘s site offers customizable features and high-quality products. This makes it one of the best online canvas print services.

2. CanvasChamp

Pricing	Pricing Low Cost
Ships To	Ships To US, Canada, India, United Kingdom, New Zealand
Delivery	Delivery 3 - 7 days
Key Services	Key Services Canvas, Acrylic, Metal, Framed, Wood, Cloth, Photo, and Gift printing
Best For	Best For Print quality to cost ratio, get great prints for a great price

CanvasChamp offers a vast selection of sizes, styles, shapes, and custom canvas prints. Options range from traditional prints to hexagon-shaped canvases and wedding canvases with lyrics.

At CanvasChamp, you’ll find many other customizable home decor items. There are wood prints, photo pillows and blankets, photo moon lamps, and mugs, to name a few.

It regularly offers seasonal discounts on its products, like Black Friday deals. It also has a lowest-price guarantee. If you find any other company offering a lower price, it will match it and provide an extra 10% discount.

The CanvasChamp interface a bit busy. The saving grace is that they make a special effort to present streamlined prices. This helps reduce your time on their website before you get the final quote.

3. CanvasHQ

Pricing	Pricing Medium Range
Ships To	Ships To US
Delivery	Delivery 7 days
Key Services	Key Services Dedicated Canvas printing service
Best For	Best For People who want great results or their money back

CanvasHQ puts a huge emphasis on the quality of its products. You can choose matte, semi-gloss, glossy, iridescent, and vintage canvases when ordering from them.

They also offer a “100% satisfaction guarantee.” If you’re not 100% happy with your order, they will remake it for you or refund your money.

CanvasHQ makes a great effort to be transparent about its processes. This is wonderful, as knowing the details about each part of their printing process makes a difference. All these details are in their website’s “Why We’re Better” section.

4. Shutterfly

Pricing	Pricing Low to Mid Range
Ships To	Ships To Worldwide (except Russia and select others)
Delivery	Delivery 6 - 10 business days, Super-rush orders available within 1 - 2 days
Key Services	Key Services Widest range of products available, including photobooks, gifts, and multiple wall art options
Best For	Best For Those looking to get more than a single canvas print

Shutterfly is the leading company in personalized gifts. Its canvas print section is under “Wall Art.” And you can also find Shutterfly’s numerous gift and print options here.

Besides high-quality canvas prints in every shape and size, they also offer photo books and water bottles. They even have personalized face masks. You can get everything that you need for a unique gift pack in one place.

Just ensure you don’t leave the Shutterfly site buying a new house decor.

5. Photobox

Pricing	Pricing Low to Mid Range
Ships To	Ships To Europe, Australia, and New Zealand
Delivery	Delivery 2 - 6 days
Key Services	Key Services Canvas, Tiles, Acrylic, Framed, Photobooks, and many more
Best For	Best For Great 110% guarantee on quality of their prints

Photobox provides some of the best canvas prints. They use professional-grade canvas material and state-of-the-art printing technology. This produces a flawless finish that lasts for years to come.

They also offer a unique “110% satisfaction guarantee.” If you don’t like your order, they will credit your account with 110% of your order value.

The website’s design and simplicity are also winning factors. Some printing sites can be hectic because there are so many options. An interface’s design can make it hard to get around their website. But Photobox uses big thumbnails for effortless site navigation.

6. Photo Canvas Land

Pricing	Pricing Low Cost
Ships To	Ships To US, Canada
Delivery	Delivery 15 - 21 days
Key Services	Key Services Gallery Canvas, Rolled Canvas, Mini Canvas, and Fine Art printing
Best For	Best For High-end canvas printing for a low cost

Photo Canvas Land promises museum-quality canvas prints for the lowest price. These high-quality services are always a great thing to look out for. It usually means their cheaper, entry-level services will still provide great prints.

The company has been active since 2000 and has provided quality prints since. The website does seem a tiny bit dated. But this could be a good sign that they favor product quality over flashy design.

This isn’t to say the interface is bad. I still enjoyed navigating the site. And it’s very straightforward, which is a plus.

Photo Canvas Land offers various canvas or regular printing options. Both come with extra mounting options. I enjoy their selections, as they enhance the photo while keeping it the main focus.

7. Mixbook

Pricing	Pricing Mid Range
Ships To	Ships To International
Delivery	Delivery 8 - 12 days
Key Services	Key Services Home Decor, Calendars, Cards, Photobooks
Best For	Best For Great production and offers good custom options for canvas printing

Mixbook is a service that doesn’t specialize in canvas printing. Instead, it specializes in putting your photographs on everything you can imagine.

They produce work with fantastic quality, especially the level of detail they put into their canvas printing section. You have a lot of choices to refine your print. You can even make adjustments in a program Mixbook provides.

8. PhotoBarn

Pricing	Pricing Mid Range
Ships To	Ships To US and Canada
Delivery	Delivery 5 - 7 days
Key Services	Key Services Canvas, Wood, Burlap, and other rustic printing options
Best For	Best For People looking for a particular rustic style to match their decor

PhotoBarn is your option if you want to have a little more fun with your photo printing. As the name suggests, most of their products conform to a barn aesthetic. And this aesthetic is increasingly popular in people’s homes nowadays.

This aesthetic is evident when they offer a service that prints on burlap. This option gives your image a more textured surface. It reduces the quality of the print, but it fits the aesthetic well.

Photo pallets, ornaments, and hexagonal photo tiles are among some of the various printing options they offer. These are great for fun family images or images celebrating a special occasion.

If you want quality photographs you can appreciate, I don’t think this option is for you. But these can be excellent niche presents for friends and family.

As well as a personal printing service, you can pick up other items that match the PhotoBarn aesthetic. This includes various signs that you can hang around your house.

9. Elephant Stock

Pricing	Pricing Mid Range
Ships To	Ships To US and Canada
Delivery	Delivery 3 - 4 days
Key Services	Key Services Canvas, Multi-Panel Canvas, Framed, Poster, and Art prints
Best For	Best For High levels of print quality and a wide range of art options

Elephant Stock focuses on providing a print service for selling stock images. It is named after the size of its image database and boasts an incredible number of images. This can be helpful if you plan to decorate your home, especially as you can browse by color.

They produce many of their stock image prints. So you can trust they will produce high-quality prints of your work. It means they have refined how an image will look based on the size and quality of the file.

All of their canvases are layered with a special protective laminate. This laminate has UV, scratch-resistant, and waterproof capabilities. This means your prints will last longer without significantly losing image quality.

Don’t let their price turn you off. They often have huge sales that dramatically reduce their prices. So it’s always worth checking before you buy.

10. iCanvas

Pricing	Pricing High End
Ships To	Ships To International
Delivery	Delivery 8 - 12 days
Key Services	Key Services Canvas, Acrylic, and wide range of Art print options
Best For	Best For Previewing prints before ordering them

iCanvas is your average canvas print online service. They provide another big database of stock images.

I enjoy the way you can browse. They have a great system to search through their database. You can look through sections organized by different house rooms, subjects, and colors.

The personal printing service is excellent. After you upload your images, you are presented with a page to edit every aspect of your print. This is convenient, as you can see all your options.

iCanvas also provides a proofing service to see what your image will look like directly on the print. But if iCanvas has one weakness, they are not the best at blowing up low-resolution imagery.

How to Order a Canvas Print (Step By Step)

Ordering canvas prints online is easy. After following a few steps, your canvas can be delivered straight to your door in a few days.

Choose a photo you want to turn into wall art. Make sure the file has the minimum required resolution and size for printing.
Examine the photo carefully. Zoom in on it so you can spot imperfections and blurriness that would be noticeable when printed.
Choose the canvas style on the print service’s website.
Upload your photo.
Pick a size for your canvas, select a material, and add any extra accessories, like a frame, that may suit it.
Submit your order.

The most important point to remember is to check your file sizes. These companies cannot make good prints of bad images. It is worth checking the size of your image files and how big they can be before losing quality.

I suggest asking a friend to check the image size or learn to check the image size yourself in Photoshop.

What to Look for in the Best Canvas Print Service

There are three important things to consider before ordering a canvas print online:

Quality of canvas
Quality of ink
Price

To suit your needs best, order your print from a company that offers a wide range of canvases and finishes (such as framed, wrapped, or mounted). And ensure the ink they use is up to your standard.

Also, if you order custom canvas prints online as a last-minute present, ensure the company offers speedy or same-day shipping.

Conclusion: Ordering the Best Canvas Prints Online

We live in a time when putting your favorite images on a wall couldn’t be easier. If you wanted to do this in the recent past, it would have taken you months and cost you dearly. Taking an image from your computer onto a canvas is fast and easy.

One of the sites on our list will provide you with great canvases to hang in your home. The selection should be based on preference and ease. Don’t settle for anything less than a print you will be happy with. These canvases can last for years.

If you want to create colorful, unique wall art, check out our Urban Smartphone Minimalism eBook. It includes projects to create beautiful compositions.

High-Quality Prints

Canvaspop Canvas Printing

How to Best Shoot Real Estate Photography: A Complete Guide

Nick Constant — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:36:59 +0000

Impressive real estate photography is hard to master, but it is achievable with a few key points in mind. The main goal in the real estate genre of photography is to make a building as appealing and idyllic as possible. The purpose is to sell or entice people to visit the building you photograph.

Today, we provide all the top tips surrounding real estate photography. We guide you through techniques and gear and even provide some legal information to remember. Each section links to an article that goes even more in-depth, so click these for more information.

eBook and Cheat Sheets

Picture Perfect Properties

Elevate your photography game and master real estate photos with ease:

Learn to capture high-value property photos with basic equipment.
Discover secrets to finding beauty in any property, enhancing appeal.
Gain professional editing tips for picture-perfect real estate images.

What Is Real Estate Photography?

Real estate photography involves taking professional photographs of properties for sale or rent. Clients then use these photos to market the properties. This gives potential buyers or renters the best visual representation of the spaces.

This section provides an informative look into real estate photography. We provide basic pointers for photographers. If you are a complete beginner, this is where you should start.

Anyone with a good eye can be a competent real estate photographer; it just takes time and skill. Unlike wildlife or street photography, your subject stays still, so it is about how you position yourself within the space.

The real difficulty comes from fine-tuning the position of every piece of furniture or other objects in the frame.

Our Guide to Take Real Estate Photos

Real estate photography is a lucrative niche for photographers. To take great property photos, start by learning the basics of interior photography. Crucial factors are using natural light when possible and paying close attention to composition.

As you improve your skills, aim to create magazine-worthy images. Work with the client to highlight the property’s best features. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing entire rooms.

Editing is the final step in real estate photography. Adjust exposure, white balance, and angles to enhance your images. Avoid unrealistic effects that create false impressions.

Property photography is a rewarding field that combines technical skill and creativity. You can build a successful business and capture stunning real estate photos with practice. Use these links to jump to the section you need most:

Composition and lighting
Real estate photography niches
Shooting techniques
Recommended gear
Starting a real estate photography business

Composition and Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important elements in real estate photography. You want the viewer to see clearly into the space to better understand it. So, your exposure should contain no dark shadows and little bright light.

Natural light is ideal in this genre. Shooting exteriors at twilight is a great way to make beautiful real estate images.

But natural light can often cause harsh shadows inside buildings, especially in rooms with small windows. Thus, it’s best to add light to these dark spaces, using added flash and reflectors.

Lighting

Good lighting is essential for real estate photography. Natural light is the best source, so open the windows and curtains to let the sun in. Avoid shooting interiors at sunset when the light changes color quickly.

A bounced flash can reveal details in the shadows without producing harsh shadows elsewhere. Adjust camera settings for the correct exposure, then adjust flash power to only affect the shadows. These settings keep the main light from the window for a natural look.

Sometimes, light fixtures are a feature of the property. In these cases, merge multiple exposures into a single HDR image to maintain details in both highlights and shadows. Check out this in-depth guide to learn more about lighting for real estate photography.

Shoot at Twilight

Twilight real estate photography can make your listings stand out. To capture stunning twilight photos, turn on all the property’s lights before sunset.

Use a tripod to avoid any camera shake. And wait patiently for the perfect moment to balance the sky’s light with the artificial lighting.

Focus on capturing one great shot, then quickly take some secondary shots from different angles. Use a flash to brighten dark areas or HDR techniques to reveal more details in the highlights and shadows.

You can replace the sky in post-processing for a more dramatic look. Be sure to color-correct any mismatched lights and not overprocess the image.

Twilight real estate photography is an art that can help attract more clients, but it’s important to keep the final image realistic. We have a comprehensive guide available for those who want to learn more about twilight real estate photography.

Real Estate Photography Niches

Real estate photography is always in demand. Every agent is battling for homebuyers’ attention with the best property photos.

Shooting professional real estate photography can seem tricky at first. But with these simple tips, you’ll produce beautiful, consistent images that will have agents calling you back every time!

Use a wide-angle lens to capture tight spaces and make rooms look more spacious. A tripod stabilizes your camera and prevents motion blur. Strobes or flashes are essential tools, especially in poorly lit homes.

Declutter surfaces before shooting and use a flash to bounce light off walls for even illumination. Keep the camera straight to avoid distortion and shoot from about five feet for a natural, balanced look.

Correct distortion, adjust highlights and shadows, and make light temperatures consistent when editing. Real estate photography can be a reliable income stream if you maintain consistency in your process and practice.

Interiors

There are a few pointers to consider when creating magazine-worthy interior photography. One is to turn off all the lights to keep the light temperature even and avoid distracting shadows.

Another is to use layers by bracketing three to four exposures. Then, blend them for a natural HDR look. Also, avoid going too wide—stick to 24mm or tighter to emphasize design elements.

It is helpful to let composition guide your shots using principles like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and depth. Create depth by styling objects from foreground to background.

Clear away clutter and add small styling touches to make the space look its best. Fine details are noticeable in real estate photography. Use natural light as much as possible, bouncing or diffusing artificial light to maintain a natural look.

You may want to tether your camera to a laptop so your client can participate in the shoot. Before the shoot, you can also visit the location to plan the best shots and gear to bring.

Capturing beautiful interior photography takes time and attention to detail. But following these tips will help you identify the key points to consider.

Airbnb

Taking professional-looking Airbnb photos is important for getting more bookings. Start by tidying up the space and arranging items to make it look inviting. Open the curtains and shoot using natural light, preferably around sunrise or sunset.

Shoot from the corners of the room to show more details. Compose your shots using the rule of thirds or golden ratio. Make sure horizontal and vertical lines are straight.

Highlight any special amenities that make your listing unique, like a fireplace or included breakfast. Take photos of the building exterior and nearby attractions, but don’t include house numbers or street names. Use a tripod to keep your shots sharp and avoid heavy editing to keep things realistic.

Airbnb photography takes some practice, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to stunning images to help your listing stand out.

Hotels

Hotel photography is all about selling an experience. Use a wide-angle lens to capture stunning hotel photos and shoot from creative angles. Pay attention to composition and use the rule of thirds to create appealing images.

Lighting is key in hotel photography. Use natural light when possible and avoid flash, which can create false impressions. Try “motivated lighting” to imitate natural light if you need artificial lighting.

Remember to photograph the hotel exterior and special amenities, like spas or stunning views. Through subtle branding elements and atmosphere, highlight the hotel’s unique personality.

By capturing inviting spaces and maybe including some human presence, your photos will make guests eager to book a stay. Check out our in-depth guide for more tips on creating incredible hotel photography.

Techniques

The main photographic technique you should familiarize yourself with is HDR. This technique uses different photos and exposures to ensure no highlight or shadow is too extreme. Pros stitch their images together in Photoshop, picking the right exposure for each image section.

Drones are being used much more in modern real estate photography. Aerial cameras are a great way to get beautiful scenic shots of the building and the surrounding areas. Drones are also helpful for taking videos, which is almost as important in high-end real estate photography.

HDR

HDR, or High Dynamic Range, is a technique for capturing a wide range of light in a single image. It works by blending multiple exposures to create a final photo that looks more like what the human eye sees.

This technique is especially useful in real estate and interior photography. In these genres, bright windows and dark shadows are often in the same shot.

To shoot HDR, start with a base exposure you have properly exposed for the scene. Then, take one or two darker exposures to capture the bright areas and one or two brighter exposures for the shadows.

Some photo editing applications have automatic HDR stitching abilities. If not, you must layer these exposures together and mask the parts you want visible from each layer in Photoshop.

When editing, be careful not to overdo it. Leave some natural contrast between the interior and exterior for a realistic look. HDR is a powerful tool, but you should use it in moderation.

If you’d like to explore HDR real estate photography further, we have a detailed guide that covers everything you need to know.

Drone

Drone photography takes real estate photos to new heights. Drones capture stunning aerial shots that give potential buyers a better view of the house and surrounding area. This unique view can make a property stand out and increase the chances of a sale.

To get started with real estate drone photography, you’ll need a high-quality camera drone. Look for a drone with at least 12 megapixels, 4K video, and good flight stability. Popular options include the DJI Phantom 4 Pro and DJI Mavic 2 Pro.

When shooting real estate drone photos, aim to highlight the property’s best features. Include shots of nearby parks, cafes, or other appealing facilities.

Capture the neighborhood layout and environment to give buyers a sense of the area. And don’t forget basic photography principles like composition and exposure.

Combining drone tech with solid photo skills lets you create compelling real estate images that grab attention. Check out our comprehensive guide to dive deeper into real estate drone photography.

Real Estate Photography Gear

We recommend a good camera for real estate photography, but the most important piece of kit is the lens. You can take real estate photos with basic lenses, even your iPhone. But you will soon realize the limitations.

A wide-angle lens is the best lens for real estate photography. You can use the wide-angle lens on your smartphone, but these lenses tend to converge the edges, making straight lines look curved.

In this section, we discuss the best real estate cameras and lenses in more depth. We have split the lens sections into the top three camera brands. From here, you can find a great lens for your camera, no matter what size sensor it has.

Best Cameras

Let’s now discuss some important points to consider when choosing the best camera for real estate photography.

Full-frame mirrorless cameras are ideal. Their larger sensors capture more light, which is important when photographing interior spaces. Full-frame cameras also work with high-end lenses that further improve image quality.

Look for a camera with at least 20 MP (megapixels). A higher resolution is good but not critical for real estate photos.

Built-in Wi-Fi is useful for quickly transferring photos to a smartphone, laptop, or tablet. These devices are a great way to get a bigger view of your shot. You can then fine-tune the composition and position of objects in the frame.

Video features are a bonus for real estate photographers who must also capture property videos. The ability to record 4K video is nice but not a must. Basic HD video is enough for most real estate needs.

The best camera for real estate photography depends on your budget and needs. But any recent Canon, Nikon, Sony, or Fujifilm camera should work well.

Our Top 3 Choices for Full-Frame Mirrorless Real Estate Cameras

Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

Sony a7R IV

Canon EOS R3

Best Lenses

When choosing a lens for real estate photography, a wide-angle zoom is ideal. It lets you capture entire rooms, even in tight spaces. The Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is a fantastic option for beginners with a Canon APS-C camera.

This affordable lens has a 10mm focal length, perfect for shooting interiors. Built-in image stabilization ensures sharp images in low light, and the autofocus motor is fast and reliable.

The Nikon AF-S DX 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED is another excellent choice for real estate photography. It’s compatible with Nikon F-mount DX cameras and delivers edge-to-edge clarity. For Fujifilm users, the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 R OIS provides a lovely 10mm wide angle and effective optical image stabilization.

Lenses for real estate photography are crucial tools for capturing stunning property images. Investing in a quality wide-angle zoom will greatly improve your real estate photography.

Canon Lenses

The best Canon lenses for real estate photography offer sharpness at wide angles. They are versatile enough to showcase any property in its best light.

Our top pick is the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM, praised for its sharpness at wide angles. The Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM is great for mirrorless users. It has crisp optics, image stabilization, and a constant max aperture.

Seven more EF and RF options are available. The EF series offers sharpness and longevity, while the RF lineup has cutting-edge technology. There’s a lens to fit every real estate photography need.

Read our article for more options for the best Canon lenses for real estate photography.

Our Top 2 Canon Lenses for Real Estate Photography

Canon EF 17-40mm F/4L USM

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Nikon Lenses

The best Nikon lenses for real estate photography offer a wide field of view and sharp image quality. Our top pick is the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S, which delivers exceptional clarity and versatility with its ultra-wide to wide zoom range. The constant f/2.8 aperture performs well in low light.

The Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is the best option for Nikon DSLR users. Photographers praise this popular lens for its flexibility and edge-to-edge sharpness. It has a durable build with weather sealing for outdoor use.

Other great Nikon lenses for real estate include the Z 20mm f/1.8 S prime, the compact Z 28mm f/2.8, and the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM zoom. To learn more about the top Nikon lenses for real estate photography, we have an in-depth guide covering 10 of the best options.

Our Top 2 Nikon Lenses for Real Estate Photography

Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-24mm F/2.8 S

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F/2.8G ED

Sony Lenses

The Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS is our top choice for real estate photography with Sony cameras. Its ultra-wide 10-18mm zoom range is perfect for capturing expansive interior spaces. The constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure across the zoom range.

This lens delivers sharp images throughout its focal range, especially at the center. At just 225 grams, it’s also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry between properties. The built-in Optical SteadyShot helps minimize camera shake in low-light situations.

Sony offers excellent camera lens options to capture stunning real estate images. Whether you need an ultra-wide perspective of 10-18mm or the versatility of 16-55mm, there’s a lens to suit your needs.

Our Top 3 Sony Lenses for Real Estate Photography

Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018

Sony E 16-55mm F/2.8 G SEL1655G

Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM

Real Estate Photography Business

If you have practiced real estate photography and want to start making money from it, this section is for you! We cover tips for getting jobs and certain steps you can take to approach clients.

We also describe and explain some legal forms required when practicing real estate photography. Finally, we will cover a difficult subject: pricing. Photographers always struggle with this, but our guide will help.

How to Start a Business

Starting a real estate photography business requires careful planning. Create a business plan with your vision and goals. Decide on your niche, like high-end properties or Airbnb photography.

Do market research to understand your competitors and target audience. Then, choose a memorable business name that reflects your brand.

You should also estimate your costs and income and decide your rates and services. Next, complete the legal paperwork, such as forming a business entity and registering for taxes.

Creating a website showcasing your best portfolio images is also good. Reach out to potential clients through networking events and cold calling. Be active on social media to attract clients. And ask for reviews!

To start a real estate photography business, you must invest time, money, and attention.

How to Make Money

Getting paid to take pictures of houses is a great way to turn your passion for photography into a career. To get started, research your area’s real estate photography market.

Find out what services are in demand and what rates are typical. Create a basic website showcasing your best work and outlining your services and prices.

Develop a smooth process for working with clients, from the initial contact to delivering the final photos. Use a simple contract that covers what you’ll deliver, your rates, and ownership of the photos. Offer quick turnaround times and an easy method for clients to view and download the images.

Attend real estate events to network with potential clients. Join local business groups and spread the word through friends and family. And share your work on social media to build your reputation as a real estate photographer.

With research, a professional workflow, and networking, you can build a successful business and get paid to take pictures of houses!

Property Release Form

A property release form is a written contract between a photographer and the owner. It gives the photographer permission to use images of the property. It can cover artistic, commercial, or editorial purposes.

The document protects both party’s rights. The form might include details like length of time, licensing regulations, and financial terms.

Also, a property release form needs both parties’ names, addresses, dates, and signatures to be legally binding. Landscape, street, and architectural photographers often need these forms for clients to use their images in magazines or ads.

While public spaces like shopping centers and city squares let people pass through, they are often privately owned. You generally need a permit to use these areas professionally, especially with a tripod.

Maybe you plan to sell your images through a stock photography website or use the area for a professional shoot with models. If so, a signed property release form is important to avoid legal issues.

A property release form is valuable for any photographer working in private spaces.

Marketing Techniques

We now provide some real estate photography marketing tips to get more customers. You may want to ask for referrals from friends, family, and clients. Also, ensure you have a great website with your portfolio ready. It’s best to have high-quality photos to impress potential clients.

Create targeted social media ad campaigns to attract your audience. Use spectacular photos like twilight shots for the cover image. Behind-the-scenes videos or before and after comparisons could also go viral.

Attend local business networking events to build valuable relationships. Bring business cards and flyers, and be prepared to present yourself well. Look for real estate agents or brokers interested in your services.

Real estate photography marketing requires a multi-faceted approach. By implementing these tips, you can attract more clients and grow your business.

Contract Ideas

A real estate photography contract is an important document. It outlines the terms and expectations for both the photographer and the client. It should include basic information like both parties’ names and contact details, the property address, and the shoot date.

The contract must clearly define the scope of the agreement. Details might include the number of photos to be delivered and any extra services, such as drone or twilight shots.

Payment terms are also crucial. It’s important to specify the deposit amount, final payment, and any extra fees for things like travel expenses or extra editing.

Another important point is the requirement that the property be clean and styled. It’s also vital to include image delivery details and photo usage rights. To be legally valid, both parties should sign and date the contract.

We have a detailed guide if you want to learn more about real estate photography contracts.

Pricing

Setting your real estate photography pricing can be challenging. Researching your local market and determining competitors’ rates is important. Consider the region you work in, as prices can vary between big cities and rural areas.

Talk to clients to explore their needs and decide if you want to focus on quality or quantity. You can streamline your process to do more standard listings or take more time with each shoot for high-end properties.

Set a limit for the number of photos your basic package includes. And charge more for extra images.

When setting prices, factor in all aspects of your business. Costs may include client communication, transport costs, gear, and post-processing. To differentiate yourself from competitors, offer a quick turnaround for an extra fee.

Read our complete guide to learn more about real estate photography pricing.

9 Best Cameras for Real Estate Photography in 2024

Natalia Robert — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 11:39:01 +0000

“What’s the best camera for real estate photography?” is the one question I get most asked as a professional real estate photographer.

Your camera and lenses are your main tools, just like a hammer to a builder. At the top of our toolbox is the Canon 5D Mark IV. It’s a camera that is versatile, sharp, and up-to-date with its features.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Real Estate Photography

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Canon EOS R

Nikon D850

Best Camera for Real Estate Photography (Top 9)

Based on the aspects above, these cameras are the best for real estate photography.

Our Top Choice

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Quality sensor produces detailed and vibrant images even at high ISOs
Dual Pixel AF with eye detection
User-friendly touch-to-focus screen
900-shot battery life
Cinema-quality (DCI) 4K video

Best Mirrorless

Canon EOS R

Excellent autofocus system
Excellent ISO range
Ergonomic camera body
Responsive and articulating touchscreen

Highest Resolution

Nikon D850

Fantastic overall image quality
Excellent 3D continuous AF tracking
Long, 1,840-shot battery life
Durable, weather-sealed construction
Sharp 4K/30p Ultra HD video

Best Sony Choice

Sony a7 III

Quick and accurate 693-point AF
Wide ISO range with a low 50 setting
Outstanding dynamic range and low-light performance
Records stunning 4K video and has live stream capabilities

Best for Light Metering

Nikon D750

Excellent performance at high ISOs
Flip-up screen
Built-in Wi-Fi
Stereo microphone
6.5 fps continuous shooting

Highly Recommended

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Fantastic image quality
Impressive 45-point AF system
Built well and nice to handle
Handy built-in Wi-Fi and GPS

Best APS-C

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9

High Resolution mode for detailed images of static subjects
Lots of custom button options and touchscreen functionality
An LCD screen on the top plate
Easy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
Durable, weather-sealed body
Excellent 4K / 60p Ultra HD video

Great Value

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Affordable
High-quality images
Fast 30 fps with 1.25x crop
Small and light
Stylish retro, black-and-silver look

Best for Pros

Canon EOS 1D X Mark III

Excellent low-light capabilities
Dual Pixel AF and AI detection
Fantastic buffer for continuous shots
High frame rate for video recording
Great battery life

1. Canon 5D Mark IV

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Megapixels	Megapixels 30.4 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 61
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 32,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

This full frame sensor camera body has a 30.4 MP capacity and an ISO of up to 32,000. It can also capture 4K video. This makes it possible to create videos that will impress your clients.

One of the more unique features is the capture of Dual Pixel RAW images. It allows for what Canon calls “micro-adjustments.” This means that you can make small adjustments to the focus point after taking the photo. This depends on the lens you’re using. And the effect is minimal. But it’s a noteworthy feature nonetheless.

This Dual Pixel RAW capability also allows the correction of ghosting. It’s essential when you see sun flare. This happens when light hits the lens at a certain angle.

The Canon 5D Mark IV is also Wi-Fi-enabled. Syncing up to mobile devices or your computer for file transfers is a breeze. The Wi-Fi capability is fantastic for wireless tethering when on larger shoots!

One of the big advantages this camera holds over previous Canon 5D models? It handles low-light situations well. This makes it great for increasing your dynamic range in-camera. It’s especially useful when shooting video in low light.

2. Canon EOS R

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Megapixels	Megapixels 30.3 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 5,655
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 40,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 8 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

The EOS R is a newer mirrorless full frame camera from Canon. It offers many of the features of the 5D Mark IV. But it’s at a lower price point!

It’s important to note that it introduces a new lens mount. This affects the lenses you can use with this camera body. Canon does offer a mount converter. But it’s something to consider if you want to keep your gear list to a minimum.

Canon also introduced a line of RF mount lenses (for the new mount). And these seem to be of high quality. If you’re switching from one body to another, the mount is something to consider.

The RAW file format for this camera is also different. It’s called C-Raw. It reduces the file size by 40% from traditional RAW images. And there is minimal image quality loss.

The quality loss does become noticeable when you push your images a few stops. This may be something to take into account for interior photographs. We often push a stop or two to brighten shadows.

The Canon EOS R also offers 4K video capabilities. So it’s great for handling real estate video needs.

3. Nikon D850

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon F FX
Megapixels	Megapixels 45.7 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 153
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

This full frame camera offers higher resolution images with 46 MP. But the most interesting appeal of this model is the sensor. The sensor in the Nikon D850 uses a new technology. It makes the edges of the sensor receive light better. This raises the peripheral image quality.

This translates to high-quality real estate photos in low-light conditions. And this can be handy when dealing with dark home interiors!

It’s capable of 4K videos for real estate video needs. And it has Wi-Fi. But it’s only usable via Nikon’s Bluetooth Snaprbridge app.

An advantage of shooting on a tripod? We’re not at the mercy of high ISOs to shoot in low light. The Nikon D850 has an ISO capability that goes down to 64. And the dynamic range at ISO 64 is fantastic!

4. Sony a7 III

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Sony FE
Megapixels	Megapixels 24.2 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 693
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

The Sony A7 III is a full frame mirrorless camera. It competes with traditional full frame DSLRs. The Sony a7III is my recommendation in place of the a7R III. It’s a significant price difference. But you don’t sacrifice quality.

The most notable difference is the resolution. The a7 III offers 24 MP. The a7R III offers 42 MP. But remember that the naked eye does not detect the difference in resolution.

The exception is if you enlarge your real estate photos to large-format murals. For common real estate photography needs? Anything 20 MP or higher serves your needs perfectly fine.

One of my favorite features of the Sony a7 series is the in-camera body stabilization. Traditional stabilization happens in the lens. But this gives stabilization regardless of the lens. This is especially useful for handheld low-light photos. Sometimes a property doesn’t have much natural light.

The Sony a7III also has an amazing dynamic range. It keeps noise to a minimum at high ISOs or when pushing the images a few stops. It is the best mirrorless camera I would suggest for real estate photography.

5. Nikon D750

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon F FX
Megapixels	Megapixels 24.3 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 51
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 6.5 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

The Nikon D750 is an excellent option for those looking for a camera at a lower price point. At the same time, it still fulfills all your needs for real estate photography.

The Nikon D750 has a 24 MP resolution. It has a full frame sensor, built-in Wi-Fi, and video capabilities. Although, it doesn’t do 4K video. But real estate cameras don’t necessarily need 4K video resolution.

One other feature that may interest photographers with this model? The highlight-weighted metering. This feature allows the camera to meter light differently. It does so based on the highlights in the frame.

Having this feature allows for better control over bright areas. These are often part of interior space, such as the windows. Overall, this is an excellent choice for real estate photography. And it comes at a very reasonable price point.

6. Canon 6D Mark II

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Megapixels	Megapixels 26.2 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 45
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 40,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 6.5 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

The 6D Mark II is Canon’s entry-level full frame DSLR. With a 26 MP sensor, it’s not the highest in resolution. But it’s plenty for real estate photography needs.

This model is not known for having a great dynamic range. It’s ideal for shooting on a tripod and layering bracketed images in Adobe Photoshop.

It has built-in Wi-Fi. But it can’t shoot 4K videos. Although the video capabilities are certainly enough to shoot for real estate needs

Overall, this is Canon’s equivalent to Nikon’s D750. It’s a great mid-level camera. But it most likely needs to be updated in the not-too-distant future… when your skill level and client expectations go up!

7. Panasonic Lumix G9

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 225
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 20 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

Panasonic Lumix G9‘s mirrorless sensor offers some impressive features. And it sells at a lower price point. It has a 20 MP resolution. This is enough but not extraordinary these days.

But it offers in-body stabilization and built-in Wi-Fi. It can shoot 4K videos. Plus, it offers a high-resolution mode that essentially does focus stacking in-camera.

The high-resolution mode is excellent for real estate. It helps ensure that everything in the space looks crisp and sharp. The G9 offers a solid dynamic range. It allows you to push exposures a couple of stops in post-processing. And you can do so without seeing a noticeable loss in quality.

This is a fantastic camera to start with… especially when looking for a lightweight option that fits your professional needs!

8. Fujifilm X-T30 II

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Fujifilm X
Megapixels	Megapixels 26 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 425
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a cropped sensor (APS-C) camera. And it is the lowest-priced camera on our list. But it offers loads of features that work well for real estate photography.

The X-T30 II offers a resolution of 26 MP, built-in Wi-Fi, and 4K video capabilities. It has good performance in high ISO settings. And the dynamic range is impressive for its price point. But it’s not so impressive compared to other models on this list.

Also, this camera does shoot in RAW and JPEG formats. And the JPEG format has exceptional color quality. I recommend the Fujifilm X-T30 II for professional real estate photography.

9. Canon 1D X Mark III

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Megapixels	Megapixels 20.1 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 191
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 102,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 20 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

This camera is a very solid model. It will serve you for many years as you improve your skillset. The 1D X Mark III is one of the best full frame cameras with 20.1 MP resolution and 4K video capabilities. But it is a bigger investment.

One of the very impressive things about this camera? It retains high-quality images even in unfortunate lighting. When working with real estate photography, pushing the exposure is important… especially in the shadows.

It has great overall performance with all the key features. And it has a rock-solid build. It will deliver and be a reliable companion.

How to Choose the Perfect Camera for Real Estate

Cropped vs Full Frame Sensor

There are a few reasons to invest in a full frame camera versus a cropped sensor one. A larger sensor takes in more light. This is pivotal when capturing light in a space.

Full frame cameras also have a different mount than cropped sensor cameras. A full frame sensor will open up a world of higher-end lenses that you can use.

The lenses that you use have even more of an impact on your real estate photos than the camera body itself. Maybe you’re not ready to buy the best lenses. But it’s best to invest in a camera that prepares you for future needs.

Pairing the Correct Lens With Your Camera

We’ve just touched on the ability of full frame cameras to mount high-end lenses. One main feature of a real estate photography camera is to mount the best lens for real estate.

Even if you cannot invest in a full frame camera, choose a camera body that gives you the freedom to switch lenses. This is crucial in learning more about your needs when shooting real estate.

Also, real estate photography often includes architectural and interior photography. This pushes you to invest in high-quality lenses. If you can, it’s better to invest now for your long-term success. It keeps you from having to constantly upgrade and incur expenses.

Are Video Features Important for Real Estate Photography?

Not every real estate photographer will shoot videos. But it is something you may want to prepare for.

Real estate agents often look for someone who can deliver still photos and a video of the property. A camera that can capture both will serve you well as you expand your services.

Again, it’s about considering your needs now and in the future. Some cameras offer 4K video capabilities. But for real estate listing purposes, you don’t normally need high-quality video. This is a feature that I recommend seeking out but not breaking the bank for.

Conclusion

There are excellent quality cameras easily accessible for a not-so-big investment. The key is to get a camera that suits your specific needs. If your budget allows, invest in a camera that will serve you long-term.

As with any nice, you want to grow your skillset. And it all comes down to how you use the tools you have! A camera for real estate photography can guarantee great performance… no matter what house you’re shooting! We recommend buying the Canon 5D Mark IV. But we’ve listed various cameras you can choose based on your needs.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Real Estate Photography

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Canon EOS R

Nikon D850

12 Best Lenses for Real Estate Photography in 2024

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 15:00:48 +0000

Finding the best lens for real estate photography has to be the top priority for any property photographer. Real estate photography poses a unique set of challenges. And finding the best lens goes a long way in overcoming those challenges.

Our top pick is the Canon EF-S 10-18mm USM lens. It’s a fantastic wide-angle zoom lens for Canon cameras. It delivers incredible results for interior and exterior shots for real estate photography.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Lens For Real Estate Photography

Canon EF-S 10-18mm F/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 12-24mm F/4G IF-ED

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 10-24mm F/4 R OIS

Find the Perfect Lens For Real Estate Photography

This post has our recommendations for the best lens for real estate photography. We’ve included crop sensor and full frame lens options. And we have lenses for Canon, Nikon, and Sony users. We’ve also included some tilt-shift lenses for professionals.

Pick the right section below to find the lens you need:

Crop Sensor Real Estate Lenses
Full Frame Real Estate Lenses
Tilt-Shift Real Estate Lenses

Best Real Estate Lens for Crop Sensor Cameras

This section looks at the best real estate lenses for crop sensor cameras. These are also known as APS-C cameras. The sensors are smaller than those found in full frame cameras.

It’s important to use a lens designed for an APS-C camera. Some lenses are compatible with full frame and crop sensor cameras. But you get a 1.6x crop factor when you use a full frame lens on an APS-C camera. That means you can’t get the wide angle you need for real estate photography.

Wide-angle lenses are ideal for real estate photography. They allow you to capture wide shots in confined spaces. You can shoot entire rooms even when space is tight. A wide-angle zoom also gives you shot variety. You can capture different rooms of the house without having to change your lens every time.

Best Canon EF-S Lens

Canon EF-S 10-18mm F/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Fantastic 10mm focal length for wide-angle shots
Built-in optical image stabilization for sharp images
Excellent value for a wide-angle lens

Best Nikon DX Lens

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 12-24mm F/4G IF-ED

Compatible with Nikon F-mount DX cameras
Lens contains Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements
A good example of Nikon's dedication to lens quality

Best Fujifilm Lens

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 10-24mm F/4 R OIS

10mm focal length gives you fabulous wide-angle shots
Optical image stabilization keeps images sharp
Good compatibility with Fujifilm X-Series cameras

Best Third Party APS-C Lens

Tokina 12-28mm f/4.0 SD Zoom Lens for Nikon F-Mount

Fabulous build quality from Tokina
Wide focal length range for exteriors and interiors
Near-silent and fast AF system

Best Cheap Nikon DX Lens

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5G ED

Excellent value wide-angle lens
The 10mm minimum focal length is perfect for interior real estate photography
The 24cm minimum focus distance is great for close ups

1. Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 5.6
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 10-18 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 22 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points The 10mm wide-angle is perfect for tight interiors. The built-in stabilization gives you sharp images and it's an affordable real estate lens.

The EF-S 10-18mm is a good wide-angle lens for getting started with real estate photography. It is compatible with all of Canon’s APS-C DSLR cameras.

This lens has built-in optical image stabilization. It keeps your images sharp in low-light conditions. And the autofocus motor is fast and reliable for this type of photography.

The wide-angle image quality is superb. And the 22mm minimum focus distance means you can also get in close for detailed shots.

With pleasing results and a modest price tag, the Canon EF-S 10-18mm STM is an affordable way to get started with real estate photography.

2. Nikon AF-S DX 12-24mm f/4.0 IF-ED

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 12-24 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 30 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Edge-to-edge clarity for distortion-free images. It's compatible with Nikon's APS-C DSLR cameras.

The Nikon AF-S DX 12-24mm f/4 is not the cheapest option on the list. But the build quality makes it the best lens for real estate photographers with a Nikon APS-C camera.

It’s compatible with all Nikon F-mount cameras with a DX sensor. These include everything from the Nikon D3500 to the Nikon D500.

Its focal range is ideal for real estate photography. It can handle broad exteriors or open-plan interiors. And the 11.8-inch (30 cm) minimum focus distance allows for creative composition in tighter spaces.

The chromatic aberration and distortion are kept at a minimum with two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements. These special glass elements also improve the image quality further.

If you’re serious about real estate photography, then this Nikon wide-angle lens won’t disappoint. There’s no image stabilization, so you might need a tripod. But it’s a fantastic piece of equipment. And it’s one of the best lenses for real estate photography.

3. Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4

Brand	Brand Fujifilm
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 10-24 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 28 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Shoot broad shots in tight spaces with the lovely 10mm wide angle. The image stabilization and constant f/4 max aperture give you good low light performance.

Real estate photographers with a Fujifilm camera need this XF 10-24mm f/4 lens. It has a beautiful construction with excellent optical quality. And it has the perfect focal length range for interior and exterior real estate photography.

The 10mm minimum focal length helps you capture interior shots. You can add space and air to small, poky rooms. And you can adjust it up to 24mm for larger spaces and exterior shots.

Its optical image stabilization is fantastic for real estate photographers. It keeps your image sharp, allowing you more flexibility with settings. This is helped by the constant f/4 max aperture. And it means you can travel from property to property without a tripod.

This lens is compatible with all Fujifilm X-mount cameras. These include the Fujifilm X-T30 II and the X-T4.

4. Tokina 12-28mm f/4.0 SD

Brand	Brand Tokina
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 12-28 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 25 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Excellent image quality for a third-party lens, but it's still an affordable option for Nikon and Canon users.

This Tokina 12-28mm f/4 SD lens is compatible with Nikon APS-C cameras with an F-mount. But you can also get a Tokina 12-28mm lens for Canon cameras. Whether for Nikon or Canon, it’s an excellent value real estate lens.

This is a fantastic real estate lens from Tokina. Third-party lenses have come a long way over the last few years. And companies like Tokina provide affordable and reliable alternatives.

The build quality is excellent. It has 14 glass elements in 12 groups for incredible image quality. And the SD filter helps to reduce signs of chromatic aberration.

The autofocus motor uses a silent drive model. It’s quick, responsive, and near-silent in operation. You also have a one-touch focus clutch, so you can revert to manual focus by turning the focus ring.

5. Nikon AF-S DX 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.5
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 10-24 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 24 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points It's an ultra-wide angle option for Nikon users. The fast f/3.5 aperture is helpful in low light situations.

The AF-S DX 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G is another ultra-wide-angle lens for Nikon APS-C cameras. It’s another fantastic option for real estate photography. And it’s a more affordable option than the previous Nikon lens.

The 10mm max minimum is perfect for interior shots, especially if you’re working in tight spaces. And the fast f/3.5 aperture gives you plenty of natural light to work with. You can turn those dingy dens into palatial lounges.

The autofocus is fast and reliable. And there’s a minimum focus distance of 9.4 inches (24 cm) for close-up shots around the property. The build quality is excellent, as you’d expect from Nikon. And you don’t need to worry about distortion. It’s a brilliant lens for property and real estate photography.

Best Real Estate Lenses for Full Frame Cameras

If you have a full frame camera, you’ll need a full frame lens. You can use adaptors if you want to use APS-C lenses with a full frame camera. But these can affect the quality of your images. And you need perfect quality for real estate photography.

Chromatic aberration and distortion can be a problem with wide-angle lenses. But good quality lenses keep these imperfections to a minimum. You can correct aberrations in Photoshop, but it’s a time-consuming process. Buying a good lens for real estate photography is the best solution.

Best Full Frame Nikon Lens

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR

A brilliant partner for your full frame Nikon DSLR
Superb optical quality from the 17 glass elements
Nikon's vibration reduction image stabilizer

Best Full Frame Canon Lens

Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM

Smooth optical image stabilization
Beautiful 9-blade aperture diaphragm for smooth bokeh
Excellent focal length range for interior and exterior shots

Best Full Frame Sony Lens

Sony FE 12-24mm F/4 G SEL1224G

Ultra-wide-angle for a full frame lens
Precision engineering on the 17 glass elements
Fast DDS AF motor

Best Tokina Third-Party Lens

Tokina opera 16-28mm F/2.8 FF for Nikon F

Excellent value for a full frame lens
Available for Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras
Focus clutch mechanism gives you excellent focus control

Best Full Frame Sigma Lens

Sigma 12-24mm F/4 DG HSM | A for Canon EF

Sigma's best lens for real estate photography
Incredible optical quality with no distortion
Available for Nikon and Canon cameras

1. Nikon AF-S FX 16-35mm f/4 ED

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 29 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Nikon's vibration reduction system gives you sharper images. The glass quality reduces aberration to a minimum.

The AF-S FX 16-35mm f/4 is the best real estate photography lens for full frame Nikon cameras. It has a beautiful wide angle with a minimum 16mm focal length. That’s ideal for interiors. And the 35mm focal length is perfect for exterior property photography.

The lens is quite heavy at 1.5 lb (680 g). That’s because it houses 17 glass elements. These include two ED glass elements and three aspherical elements. And they have a nano-crystal coating to reduce flare and ghosting. The extra weight is worth the additional optical quality.

This lens has the Nikon vibration reduction image stabilization system. It counteracts camera shake, keeping your images sharp. That’s a handy feature if you’re working in low light. You can also leave your tripod at home.

The Nikon AF-S FX16-35mm f/4 gives you splendid results. It’ll take your real estate photography to the next level, increasing house viewing and sales. It’s an investment worth making for Nikon users.

2. Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 28 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points You get three stops of shake compensation from the stabilizer. The 9-blade diaphragm gives you a lovely bokeh effect.

The EF 16-35mm f/4L is the best real estate lens for full frame Canon cameras. It’s from the Canon L series. And that means it’s one of their superior lenses. It also means a higher price. But it’s a price worth paying if you’re serious about real estate photography.

The 16-35mm range is ideal for real estate photography. It’s wide enough to capture even a small space in full. And the 35mm zoom is perfect for larger spaces when you want a tighter composition.

The built-in optical image stabilizer is a fantastic feature for property shooters. It gives you 3 stops of shake compensation. You won’t need a tripod and you’ll have more freedom with settings.

This Canon lens uses a 9-blade diaphragm rather than the usual 7. That gives you less flare and glare. And it helps create a smooth soft focus when using a shallow depth of field.

The EF 16-35mm f/4L is a beautiful lens from Canon. It’s the best option for real estate photographers using full frame Canon cameras.

3. Sony FE 12-24mm f/4 G

Brand	Brand Sony
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 12-24 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 28 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Wide minimum focal length for a full frame lens. Superb optical quality and one of the best AF motors for fast focusing.

The Sony FE 12-24mm f/4 G is the ultimate real estate lens for Sony users. It’s the perfect partner for your full frame Sony camera. And it’ll be a huge step forward for your real estate photography career.

The 12-24mm focal length range is ideal for real estate. You’ll be able to capture interiors and exteriors without changing lenses. 12mm is the widest angle available in the Sony EF lens series. So it’s your best option for real estate photography.

The build quality is superb. And the 17 glass elements work together to give you an image free of imperfections. There’s no flare or ghosting at any focal length. You also get a constant f/4 aperture throughout the focal length.

There’s no image stabilization in the lens. But the direct drive supersonic motor drives a fast and silent autofocus system.

The Sony FE 12-24mm f/4 G is an example of precision engineering from Sony. With its widest focal length and supreme optical quality, it’s the best real estate lens for Sony photographers.

4. Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8

Brand	Brand Tokina
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-28 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 28 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points The constant f/2.8 aperture gives you excellent low light performance. It's available for Nikon and Canon full frame DSLRs.

Don’t let the third-party name tag put you off. The Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 is excellent for real estate photography. It gives you options for interior and exterior shots. It’s available for Nikon and Canon full frame cameras. And it’s an absolute bargain.

The image quality is sharp throughout the focal length. And you can’t complain about the glass quality. It is quite a heavy lens. But that’s due to the 17 glass elements housed within. They also have a special multi-coating to help reduce flare, glare, and ghosting.

The f/2.8 aperture is fast for a wide-angle zoom lens. It gives you plenty of natural light to work with, helping brighten dark and dim rooms.

The autofocus is very reliable. And there’s a focus clutch mechanism. This allows you to switch from auto to manual focus by turning the focus ring.

The focal length range is exactly what you need for real estate photography. The 16mm focal length gives you the wide angle you need for interior photography. And you have the range for shooting every room in the house without changing the lens.

The Tokina ATX 16-28mm f/2.8 is available for Nikon FX and Canon EF cameras. It’s an affordable option for a budding real estate photographer.

5. Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art Lens

Brand	Brand Sigma
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 12-24 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 24 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Excellent zoom range for interiors and lovely optical quality. It's available for Nikon and Canon cameras.

The Sigma Art lens series has changed the way people see third-party lenses. They aren’t there to make up the numbers. Now they’re true contenders. And the Sigma 12-24mm f/4 Art lens is a contender for the best lens for real estate photography.

The lens performs beautifully throughout its focal length. The image quality is a delight. And you’ll experience practically zero distortion or aberration.

It has 16 glass elements arranged in 11 groups. That makes it a heavy lens. But it includes low-dispersion glass that reduces imperfections even more.

The Art lens uses Sigma’s Hypersonic Motor (HSM) for it’s autofocus system. It’s one of the best AF systems around. And it gives you smooth, quick, and quiet focus.

The Sigma 12-24mm f/4 Art lens is available for Nikon and Canon full frame DSLR cameras. It’s a beautiful piece of equipment. And exactly what you need if you’re serious about real estate photography.

Best Tilt-Shift Lenses for Real Estate Photography

Tilt-shift lenses are specialty lenses. They’re made primarily for shooting building exteriors or anything with strong vertical lines.

With a tilt-shift lens, you can keep your camera perfectly level. And then you can adjust the upward and downward composition of your shot by raising or lowering the optics of the lens.

The real benefit is that the tilt-shift lens keeps all the vertical lines vertical. So it solves any aspect, perspective, or distortion problems in-camera. But is a tilt-shift the best lens for real estate photography?

Tilt-shift lenses are a bit on the pricey side. And they weren’t created specifically with real estate photography in mind. But more and more real estate photographers are turning to tilt-shift lenses. And more often than not, they aren’t turning back.

In the long term, a tilt-shift camera can save time and money because so little work is needed in post-production. The lens makes the corrections before the picture is even taken.

A tilt-shift lens is an investment for your real estate photography business. They’re overkill for amateurs. But they’re an incredible tool for professional real estate photographers.

Best Canon Tilt-Shift Lens

Canon TS-E 17mm F/4L

Excellent value for a tilt-shift lens
Ideal for architectural photography
Super-wide 93-degree viewing angle

Best Nikon Tilt-Shift Lens

Nikon PC NIKKOR 19mm F/4E ED

Glass elements have Nano Crystal and Fluorine coating
Incredible perspective control with tilt and shift features
Nikon's best lens for architectural photography

1. Canon TS-E 17mm f/4 L

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 17 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 25 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Full perspective control with the tilt and shift options. You get a wide 93-degree angle of view.

Canon’s 17mm f/4 L lens is the widest-angle tilt-shift lens you can find. The build quality is fantastic. And the tilt and shift operations work like magic. It’ll transform the way you shoot real estate photography.

This lens offers an angle of view of 93 degrees, which is ideal for interiors and cramped exteriors. And the specially coated glass minimizes chromatic aberration. The result is crystal clear, glare-free images.

The lens isn’t cheap. But it’s the perfect piece of equipment for architectural photography. The optical results are incredible. And once you start using one, you won’t know how you lived without it.

2. Nikon PC 19mm f/4 E ED

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 19 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Minimum Focus Distance	Minimum Focus Distance 25 cm
Top Selling Points	Top Selling Points Full perspective control with the tilt and shift options. Incredible optical quality with no distortion or ghosting.

The Nikon PC 19mm f/4 is a masterpiece in precision lens building. It doesn’t come cheap. But for build and image quality, not much comes close.

It uses 17 glass elements. These include three ED and two aspherical glass elements. And each has a Nano Crystal or fluorine coating. You’ll find no signs of distortion or ghosting, even at the very edges of the image.

The 19mm focal length gives you the wide angle that real estate and architectural photographers need. And the tilt and shift capabilities redefine the possibilities. You have maximum perspective control.

The Nikon PC 19mm f/4 is for professional real estate and architectural photographers. The price will be a turnoff for amateurs. But professionals will see it as an investment worth making.

Our Verdict

The best real estate photographers need the best lens for real estate photography. The Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/1.8 USM is our top pick for the best real estate lens. It’s compatible with APS-C cameras. And it’s an absolute bargain wide-angle zoom lens.

The Nikon AF-S FX 16-35mm f/4 is the best real estate lens if you’re using a full frame DSLR camera. And the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4 L is perfect for full frame Canon users. You can also go for a tilt-shift lens if you’re serious about architectural photography.

Finding the best lens for real estate photography is the first step on the road to professionalism. You’ll see improved results immediately. And you’ll know that the best lens for real estate photography is money well spent.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Lens For Real Estate Photography

Canon EF-S 10-18mm F/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 12-24mm F/4G IF-ED

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 10-24mm F/4 R OIS

Standard Picture Frame Sizes for Photos and Prints

Trevor Marshall — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:36:27 +0000

Knowing something about picture frame sizes is surprisingly important. And it’s not as simple as it might seem. We might live in a digital world. But there’s nothing like having your beautiful photos printed out. And they’re even better if they are displayed in picture frames. But it’s not always easy to know what’s the best picture frame size for your beautiful prints. Don’t worry. This guide will explain everything you need to know.

Once you’ve chosen your printer paper, you’ll want to frame those photos. This isn’t always as easy as you think. It’s not always simple to get the perfect picture frame size for your wall art. This is partly because the aspect ratio of our photos is not always the same as the paper we want to use. Paper sizing can be surprisingly confusing. So here’s a quick explanation…

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Understanding Picture Frame Sizes and Paper Size: What You Need to Know

Photo printer paper is largely the same across the globe, apart from standard “office” size paper. In North America, the standard is US letter size (8.5 x 11″ / 215.9 x 279.4 mm). Almost everywhere else, it is A4 (8.27 x 11.69″ / 210 x 297 mm). They are very similar in size. Your average home printer or dedicated photo printer will happily default to this size.

But the aspect ratio of the paper is even more important than raw size. This is usually given as the ratio of one side to the other. So 6 x 4″ (15 x 10 cm) paper has an aspect ratio of 3:2. US letter has a ratio of 1:1.29 (roughly 13:10). A4 (and in fact every ‘A’ size paper) is 1:1.41 (roughly 7:5). For the math lovers out there, the ratio is actually 1:√2.

If you’ve ever even briefly looked into this, you’ll know there’s a problem. The pictures your camera produces do not neatly fit these larger paper formats. This table shows the aspect ratio of the most common camera formats and papers.

As you can see, there are some easy formats. The most popular print size, 6 x 4″, matches the aspect ratio of full frame and APS-C cameras. With other print sizes and other camera formats, you will need to crop your photos. It’s important to know this before you print. That way you can match your photos to the available picture frame sizes. You can see how the various formats relate to each other here.

Common aspect ratios © Trevor Marshall

Things to Consider When Choosing Picture Frames

You have some choices to make once you’ve chosen your photo and cropped it as necessary. It’s important to think of choosing picture frames as part of the whole creative process.

There are considerations such as the frame color. And you’ll need to decide if the picture is going on the wall or a table or shelf. If it’s on the wall, decide if it will take pride of place as a talking point. Or you might want a collection of small photos framed together.

It’s worth thinking about where you want to put your photos. Few of us have large, gallery-like spaces. So you can be creative. Use the stairs, perhaps. And don’t forget the littlest room in the house! If it’s going on the wall, make sure the fixing is safe. A picture might be worth a thousand words, but it’s not worth a burst pipe.

What Picture Frame Material do You Want?

The possibilities are almost endless. At the most basic are frameless picture frames. Personally, I think that unless you’re a student or living in the ’80s, these probably don’t work anymore.

But there are wood frames of every kind—metal of all sorts, plastic, reclaimed material, and others. Then you need to think about how wide you want the frame material to be. And how deep. Some photos look really good with a deep picture frame.

What Size do You Want?

This seems like a simple question. But the array of frame sizes can be bewildering. Probably the most popular print size is 6 x 4″ (15 x 10 cm). It’s a great size for passing around, and it fits nicely on a table or bookshelf. But on the wall, it can get a little lost.

If you have a bit more space, then 7 x 5″ (18 x 13 cm) prints make more of an impression. In a small room, they won’t look too lost on the wall. In most cases, you need a larger print for hanging on the wall. This would most likely mean US letter or A4. Although 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) is still popular for darkroom papers. Inkjet printer paper tends to be standard office paper size.

For more impact, you can go bigger. Some keen photographers might have an inkjet printer that will handle larger paper. If so, then you’re probably going to use 19 x 13″ (32.9 x 48.3 cm, also called A3). This is roughly a 3:2 ratio. Any larger than this and you will probably be using a specialist printing service.

Look for inspiration in magazines or on the internet. If you have a striking photo that you can enlarge, make it the focal point of a wall. If you have a number of pictures you want to display, then consider a collection of smaller picture frames.

Do You Want a Mat?

(Depositphotos.com)

A mat (or mount in the UK) is a frame within a frame. It can add style and class to the framed photo. A dark mat can bring out a light photo. It can also contrast nicely with the picture frame. Many off-the-shelf picture frames will come with a mat. This often means that one frame size offers you two possible photo sizes. A 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) frame can display a print that size. Or it will often come with a mat for a 7 x 5″ (18 x 13 cm) photo.

In general, I’d say a mat is essential to setting off your photo. My wife, an artist, thinks everything should be triple-mounted. The frame and mat count as 2. Triple-mounting certainly makes an impact, but is probably unnecessary for everyday needs.

Finally, there are some mats available for displaying multiple photos in one picture frame. This can be a great choice for the right subject.

What About Glass?

Glass is great for protecting your prints. It’s also great at reflecting light, which can be a problem. If you can stretch to it, buy a picture frame with non-reflective glass. The same problem of reflections should influence your choice of paper.

This choice also depends on where the frame will be. If it is in direct sunlight for some of the day, you will need to think about that. Or if it’s a dark corner, then think about some accent lighting. Again, magazines or Pinterest can be useful sources of inspiration and ideas.

What are the Best Picture Frame Sizes for Your Photos?

(Depositphotos.com)

Let’s start with some common picture frame sizes. Nothing is more common than the 6 x 4″ (15 x 10 cm) photo. If space is tight, then pick simple photo frames that fit the photos exactly. An 8 x 6″ (20 x 15 cm) photo frame with a mat will display a 6 x 4″ photo perfectly. Don’t be afraid to go big with the frame and mat. A stylish frame and an eccentric mat can have a great impact.

It’s curious, given its 5:4 aspect ratio but 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) size, that photographic paper was always very popular with photographers. And it remains a very popular frame size for graduation photos, wedding shots, and other causes for celebration.

A picture frame size that allows a decent mat for a 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) photo would be something like a 17 x 15″ (43.5 x 38.5 cm). This would be a great size picture frame to show off your work.

(Depositphotos.com)

A medium-sized picture frame will fit the bill for the most common size for US letter (27.9 x 21.6 cm) size photos. And an 11 x 14″ (28 x 35.5 cm) frame gives plenty of room for a tasteful mat. For A4, you’ll need something like 14 x 11″ (35.6 x 27.9 cm) to allow enough room for a mat.

For a bolder statement, there are some A3 (18 x 12″ / 29.7 x 42 cm) frame sizes with a mat for an A4 photo. This gives a very generous surrounding to the photo.

Likewise, you can find A2 (24 x 18″ / 60 x 42 cm) picture frames with an A3 mat if you really want to show off your A3 prints. If you’re using North American frame sizes, then something like 17 x 22″ (43 x 56 cm) photo frames should work well.

(Depositphotos.com)

Remember, you don’t have to stick to rectangular or square picture frames. Circles or ovals also make a great choice. A final option, whatever size your photo, would be having a custom frame made.

Custom frames allow you to choose from a wide range of mats and frames. And it means you definitely have the optimum choice of picture frame sizes. This is especially attractive if you’re investing money into a big statement photo. Get it printed on gallery paper, and give it the gallery treatment in the frame.

Conclusion

It’s a pity that so many great photos never make it off the hard drive or out of the cloud. I have never had better camera equipment, and I have never printed so few photos.

Printing and framing your pictures isn’t cheap. But well-chosen, beautifully-framed photos can be a real feature in your home. Knowing what picture frame sizes are available to you locally before you print your photos is a handy tip.

10 Twilight Real Estate Photography Tips for Moody Scenes

ExpertPhotography — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 15:26:21 +0000

One of the most loved aspects of real estate photography is shooting stunning images at twilight. These images have a charming feel to them and can also make a real estate listing more attractive. Twilight photos also add great value to any portfolio but they are different from regular architecture photography.
In this article, we present the following tips to help you to master the enchanting technique of twilight real estate photography.

What is Twilight Real Estate Photography?

A twilight photo is an external image of buildings taken at dusk that is very common in architecture and real estate photography. It’s shoot in a particular moment when the sky’s light is perfectly balanced with the property’s lights.
Shooting extraordinary twilight real estate photography requires a camera, tripod, and perfect timing. After the sunset, turns on all the property’s lights and Shoot when the dusk light is perfectly balanced with it.

10. Plan and Prepare for Twilight Photos

The first step is accurate planning.
Since interior photos are usually taken during the day, you can set a different date for the twilight shot. Most such photoshoots are done during summer when days are longer.
Good weather is also essential. While a few clouds can add a colorful touch, it is not easy to predict a magic sunset. Consider arriving at least one hour before sunset so you have the time to set the framing in every detail. You will only have a few minutes to shoot twilight photos. If you arrive late, you will lose the photo.

9. Turn on the Lights

What makes sunset photography so fascinating is the richness and vividity of the colors. The blue of the sky and yellow of the lighting are at the opposites of the color wheel. For this reason, the combination adds a distinctive character to the photo.
The bright azure of the swimming pool can give a sense of peace, like the calmness of its still waters. Plants and hedges appear from the darkness, enlighten by outdoor fixtures.
Except for the sunset that is not always under your control, the final results will depend on artificial lighting. The first step is to turn on every light. Both interior and external lights have to be on before the sunset. The interiors light up doors and windows. You can also close the curtains if they make the light pass through to avoid an excess of details. The exteriors light up the walls, the plants, the pool, and the passages. As the sunset goes on, the lights appear more and more present until they reach a perfect balance.

8. Use a Tripod

As a real estate photographer, you do not need expansive or sophisticated equipment. But there is one accessory that you cannot miss. It is the tripod.
In real estate and architecture, you should take every photo slowly. Everything in the framing is still, and the tripod allows you to look at every detail.
And if interior daylight photography is slow, shoot twilight is even slower. You can choose the best point of view and prepare an accurate composition before the moment of the shot.
When shooting in low light, you need to use high ISO or slow shutter speed. Moreover, you avoid micro shakes and can capture a crisp, sharp image.
Finally, you can shoot multi exposures that are perfectly overlapping and merge them in post-production.

7. Wait Patiently for the Perfect Moment

Twilight real estate photography is never about quantity. Shooting at twilight is completely different from a standard daylight shooting. During the day, you move through spaces to describe the property in every corner. Most of the time you have to do it quickly, to fulfill the client’s needs. In the evening, you can only shoot a few images in two or three hours.
If you want to get the best result, patience will be your best ally. It’s easy to be carried away shooting a lot of pictures but you risk only get mediocre images.
The timing is decisive in the success of a great photo. The best way is to recognise the best point of view and wait until the light is perfectly balanced. Once you decide on the best framing, you do not have to move your camera until you get the perfect shot.

6. Capture One Hero Shot and a Couple Secondary Shots

You waited with patience to get an amazing hero shot, and you already did most of the work. Now there are only a few minutes left before the sky becomes too dark, and, in this time, you can still capture a few more useful images.
Unlike your hero shot, you need to move quickly, and you could not have time for accuracy. Depending on the season and the latitude, dusk can long less than half-hour, and you already spent most of the time for the hero shot. A few minutes are enough to shot some more great images. You can take an alternative exterior shot, an exciting view from an interior, or a breathtaking drone shot.
The best thing is to plan these secondary shots, so you can go straight to the selected point and shot without hesitation.

5. Use Flash

Sometimes exterior lighting does not light up an important feature as you would like it to. In this case, you can use a flash to compensate. This technique is particularly effective in twilight real estate photography.
Since you are using your tripod, you can illuminate a whole manor with a single flash. You need to take several pictures and move the flash at every shot. You can light up a dark wall, a beautiful plant, or even strengthen existing lights. All these images should be perfectly overlapping in composition.
The only limit to this technique is the power of your flash. Especially for outdoors, a Speedlite could not be enough to light up a large wall. For this purpose, battery-powered studio flashes are the best solution.

4. Use HDR or Layers to Recover Details

To reveal details from highlights and shadows, you can use different techniques.
You need to start from a bracketed series of at least three photos: one correctly exposed, one exposed for the highlights (underexposed), and one for the shadows (overexposed). You can use AEB (Automatic Exposure Bracketing) for a quick shoot.
You can merge the shots in a single HDR photo. In this case, I recommend a moderate use of the highlights and shadows sliders in Lightroom because they affect the whole image. To reveal more detail, you can continue with a local adjustment brush or radial gradient. With this method, you avoid the exaggerated look of HDR and get a more pleasing result.
For a more realistic look, you should instead process the images in Photoshop. Once you stack the images as layers, you can use a mask to reveal or recover details. Tweaking with the blur and transparency of the layer mask will allow you a seamless transition.
Do not exaggerate with filling the shadows because they add three-dimensionality to the image. In some cases, you may want to emphasise silhouettes. Then you should do the opposite, making the shadows even darker.

3. search the Sky for a More Dramatic Look

One thing that any photographer wants to avoid is to postpone the shooting for bad weather. If it’s not raining, you can still deliver great-looking pictures by replacing the sky. Unlike daylight exterior shootings, you do not have to worry about sun exposure and shadows.
First, you need a good experience with Photoshop and sky replacements. A twilight image will likely be used as a hero shot, and it would be useless if the sky is roughly stitched and looks unnatural.
Second, you need a good collection of skies to make every shooting unique. At the same time, all the twilight images from a shooting should be coherent. You should replace the same sky in all images, trying to change the angle of view to create a variation.
Third, you can use the new sky to add a stunning sunset. In this way, you can create impressive pictures even if you start from a clean blue sky. The only thing to pay attention to is that the direction of the sun. search the sky with a new sunset coming from the side, from behind, or in front of the viewer, in the same way as the real sunset.

2. Color Correct Lights

The ideal comes from the contrast of the blue of the sky and the yellow of the fixtures. In real circumstances, you will find lights with different temperatures.
Some will look yellow, and some others will look white, but you can make them uniform with quick editing.
You can do most of the work using the Local Adjustment Brush in Lightroom. For the most accurate selection, you can use a Luminance or Color Range Mask.
For a sequence of windows that differs in color, you can use the Clone Stamp or select and replace the window’s interior in Photoshop.
For the garden and exteriors, you can also remove the color cast in some cases. Especially for plants, a neutral light can look better.

1. Do Not Overprocess

With a twilight image, it can be easy to be carried away with processing to give a more artistic look. But the aesthetic approach is not always useful, and you should look from the market’s point of view. There are positive and negative to this.
The good is that the images can be more eye-catching, and the listing of the properties will attract more clients.
The bad is that the image does not correspond to reality, and clients will not find what they expect. The risk is that a bad first impression can minimise or cancel any effort made to attract clients.

Conclusion

Twilight real estate photography can be an art that makes your clients happier and helps you to attract new ones. By following these tens steps, you will do it in the right way will allow you to reach a higher level in your profession.
Learn more tricks to capture real estate photos that rent and sell properties at higher prices with our Picture Perfect Properties!

8 Tips for Better Lighting for Real Estate Photography

ExpertPhotography — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 18:49:23 +0000

Good lighting is essential for any type of photography, but it’s especially important when shooting real estate. The right light can make a room look warm and inviting, while the wrong light can make it look cold and uninviting. Here are eight tips for improving your lighting for real estate photography.

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1. Master Natural Lighting For Real Estate Photography For Magazine-Worthy Shots

If you look through an interior design magazine, you can notice most of the shots use natural light.

Natural light is the best source of lighting for interiors. Just open the windows and curtains and let the sun in.

There are some tips for shooting with natural light:

Choose the best hour of the day. It’s usually around midday, but some properties get the most light in the morning or afternoon. Be sure to have enough time to shoot with constant light. Avoid shooting interiors at sunset, when the light quickly changes color.
Open all the blinds. Make the sunlight fill the room as best as possible. You can use net curtains to mitigate the contrast from the windows.
Turn off every light in the room. One of the most significant advantages of turning the lights off is that you avoid color casts. You can also get uniform white walls with simple editing.

2. Use a Bounced Flash to Reveal Details in the Shadows

One of the downsides of natural light is that it can produce strong shadows that require extensive processing.

The solution comes from a single flash. This can be cleverly used in combination with the largest reflectors available: the walls and ceiling.

The flash must never be pointed forward, or it will produce hard shadows. You can keep it on the camera, tilting the bulb toward the ceiling and slightly backwards. Or use it with a radio trigger for more accurate positioning.

When you use a flash, you should be able to produce an image that doesn’t have the “flash look”.

First, you need to adjust camera settings to get the correct exposure. Next, you can adjust the flash power so that only the shadows are affected. In this way, the main light will be the one coming from the window, and the image will look natural.

You can learn how to take stunning interior images with our ebook – Picture Perfect Properties!

3. Use a Flash to Mimic Natural Light

As a real estate photographer, your purpose is to enhance the natural beauty of any space, without altering the real perception.

Sometimes the light in a room can be dull and flat. You can improve this by mimicking natural light.

The principle is to imitate natural light that comes from a definite direction. If the room has a window that is not bright enough, point the flash on the same wall to get a soft large diffused light coming from that direction.

Make sure that the flash and the bright spot on the wall are not in your framing. If you can’t avoid it, make a second identical shot without the flash and mask the unwanted elements in photoshop.

4. Turn on the Lights if They Add Value and Character to the Room

Sometimes light fixtures can be a feature of the property. You need to turn on the lights in order to appreciate them.

In these cases, a simple shot will not be enough to capture all the details in the shadows and highlights. There are two ways to get the right exposure, which one to follow is a matter of personal taste and style.

The first is to use natural light and a bounced flash to fill the shadows in the room. The hardest part is to balance three sources of light: the light fixtures, the light coming from the windows and the flash.

You can close the curtains if the light from the window is too strong. Then you can set the exposure looking at the histogram on the camera. The highlights should just touch the right side to avoid a complete blowout of the area around the lamps.

You can add a flashlight to fill the shadows and reduce the overall dynamic range of the scene.

The second method is to shoot multiple exposures and merge them in a single HDR image that maintains all the details from the highlights and shadows. You can recover all the details in Lightroom or Photoshop.

Photo by Vecislavas Popa from Pexels

5. Use HDR While Maintaining a Natural Look

It is good practice to capture every image with bracketing. It is more and more common since the latest updates in Lightroom that allow you to automatically batch-process all the bracketed shots in a folder.

But why is HDR so useful? When we are in a room, our eyes continuously adapt to the environment to sense the highlights and shadows. Even the most advanced camera sensor is not capable of capturing this wide range in a single shot. Therefore, a photographer needs to capture different exposures and combine them in post-production.

But there is a pitfall that seduces most photographers. It is the exaggeration of post-processing that produces unnatural images.

When you open a HDR image in Lightroom, you can notice how easy it is to pull the highlights and shadows sliders all the way. By doing this, you ruin the middle part of the histogram, losing details and beautiful colors.

The best method is to use local adjustments to recover highlights and shadows only where needed, leaving the correctly exposed parts of the image untouched.

6. Show the View From the Window in a Natural Way

Here is one of the most common challenges for real estate photographers: showing both the interior and exterior as we would see with our eyes. This means a perfectly exposed exterior and a bright interior.

The first step is exposure bracketing, paying attention that the fastest shot is correctly exposed for the exterior. Then merge the shots in a single HDR image and use the local adjustment tools to recover the highlights from the window.

The results are not always clean; in most cases, you may lose some details from the exterior view. The transition from the window frame to the exterior may look smudged. At this point, you may add a further step.

In Photoshop, you can open two images as layers; the edited HDR and the single shot with the correct exposure on the window. You can now easily mask the window and replace the view. A little blend at the end helps to achieve a perfectly seamless union of the two images.

7. Avoid Mixed Lighting to Eliminate Color Casts

The perfect lighting should always appear neutral in color.

Some light sources have different temperatures. The light from a window is different depending on the hour and the direction of the building. The light fixtures can be cold or warm, and the flash is daylight.

When these light sources don’t match, you’ll obtain a red and blue cast on your photo. This needs to be fixed in post-production.

The first method to avoid a color cast is to turn off every light. This way, you can be sure to have beautiful, uniform light in your photos.

If your flash doesn’t match with the light fixtures or with the window light, you should use gel filters to match the color temperature. Is preferable to match the flash with the interior lights, since fixing the blue cast from a window is usually easier in post-production.

8. Always Use the Same Lighting for Consistent Results

This last tip is one of the most important. It will make all the difference.

Be consistent in your shoot from the beginning to the end of every property. You can learn a lot of techniques and tricks to get the best lighting, but you should use the same approach for every room in the property.

If you start with natural light, then you capture another room with flash, and another with light fixtures turned on, you’ll obtain an irregular gallery. This will not be as pleasing as if you would have shot everything in natural light.

A good practice is to take a tour of the property before the shoot and decide which lighting technique will be more appropriate.

This rule can also apply to a short series of works, like a small group of homes for an agency that will go to a website.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Flash for Real Estate Photography?

A real estate photographer needs a simple manual flash, with a guide number of 58 or higher. Basic Neewer or Godox flashes will do the job perfectly. Some also come with a built-in wireless trigger. If you need more power, the Godox AD200 is an excellent option.

Conclusion

You should always look for the chance to apply new techniques and improve your style. Remember to keep your images consistent, though!

In this way, you’ll become a master in lighting for real estate photography in no time.

Real Estate Photography Contract (Step by Step)

ExpertPhotography — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 18:41:21 +0000

At the beginning of my career as a professional real estate photographer, I thought that writing a contract was too difficult and unnecessary. Soon I discovered that a word agreement was inadequate to cover every need or circumstance.
Now don’t worry, you don’t need to hire a lawyer. A simple real estate photography contract will do the job most of the time.

Real Estate Photography Contract: Main Terms to Include

The first step is to know the following main terms that you should include:

Information of both parties;
Scope of the agreement;
Payment;
Requirements;
Extra fees;
Delivery;
Rights/Licensing;
Property release;
Signature.

Let’s look at these points in detail.

1. Information of Both Parties

It is an obvious point, but sometimes overlooked.
Can you always be sure that the person you are talking with is legally responsible for the shoot or the property? Do you have all the contact information in case you need them?
This section contains the full names and contact information of the client (the real estate agent or property owner) and the real estate photographer. Contact information should include the phone number, email and physical address.

2. Scope of the Agreement

This is the most important part of the photography contract. It is where you determine your client’s expectations. Describe your service in as much detail as possible to avoid any misunderstanding.

The address of the property is needed to state the object of the shoot clearly. Also, include the name or the code of the property if applicable.
The scheduled date and duration of the service; it helps the client to prepare for the shoot.
The number of images to produce.
The extra services included, like drone shooting, twilight shooting, or staging.
Any particular requests of the client.

3. Payment Terms

Here’s another crucial part of any basic photography contract.
It is probably the first things that your client will ask. But the final price isn’t the only thing that is important to you. Your client must agree to any terms about the payment that are described in detail in this section.
It is good practice to ask for a deposit on confirmation of the shoot. Many photographers are worried that this could scare the client, but it guarantees that you have a partial refund in case the client changes their idea or doesn’t meet some of your requirements.
One thing you want to avoid is to send the final images and chase the client for the payment.
Some photographers ask for full payment at the end of the shoot. This also can be a risky request if there is not a foundation of trust.
You can resolve this by sending low resolution watermarked images. The client can’t use them but will be reassured to see the final images before payment. You can consider allowing them to make a limited number of requests. Only after the payment is completed should you deliver the full images.

4. Requirements

The success of the property shoot depends not only on your skills but also on perfect styling. The owner is responsible for the preparation of the property to make it look fresh and appealing. For optimal preparation, the client should follow these basic tips:

Make sure that all rooms are clean, and every furniture is in its place;
Remove any personal items;
Prepare the beds as it would welcome an important guest;
Set the table with dishes and glasses or a beautiful vase;
Clean up the exterior and cut the lawn. If the property has a luxurious garden it’s best to hire a gardener before the shoot;
Clean the swimming pool.

You should be able to start shooting as soon as you arrive on location. If the property still needs a lot of work, you should hold the deposit and reschedule.
When I started my job, it wasn’t unusual to waste a lot of time waiting for the preparation, and that was indeed a cause of stress. But once I wrote this requirement in the contract, every property was well prepared at my arrival, allowing me to make better pictures.
Another requirement is the weather condition. I always allow changing the scheduled date if the weather is not adequate or turns suddenly. It’s the photographer’s responsibility to check the weather in advance and suggest the best option.

5. Extra Fees

The client must be aware of any extra costs that could be involved in the service. These costs are not always necessary, but they can be added to the final price under some circumstances or for specific requests. They can include:

Travel expenses, both as a flat fee or as a kilometric refund.
Cost for additional photos, in case the client asks for more photos during the shoot.
Cost for extra post-production, if requested. For example, sky replacement or advanced object removal.
Cost for full size, print quality, images if you usually deliver web size images.

It’s crucial that your client knows that every additional request comes at a cost. It can be an excellent practice to overdeliver the number of photos by a small percentage (5-10% more than agreed). This way, you guarantee a high satisfaction of your clients.

6. Delivery

You must specify all the details about the nature, the time, and the method of delivery.

The kind of file (Jpg, Tiff, Png) you deliver and the resolution.
How you transfer the files, for example using services as Wetransfer.
The expected delivery time after you complete the shoot.
If you deliver low-resolution photos for revision before the final delivery.
The time within which the client can ask for a revision.

I always send images with a file transfer service. A few times the client was disappointed because they expected some prints. If it is made clear in the contract then you can avoid dispute. You can consider selling full-size images at an extra cost, so it’s important to be precise about file resolution.

7. Rights

One of the most common misinterpretations is that the client thinks that they have full property of the paid images.
Since the photographer provides a digital copy of their work, they remain the only owner of the images, while the client only buys a license to use.
A common copyright infringement is when real estate agents transfer the images to other parties without the photographer’s permission.
Writing an explicit license agreement helps you to avoid seeing your pictures published by someone else or for different purposes.
With a license agreement, the photographer defines the circumstances and the time in which the client can use the images.
It is common to allow all web usages without time limits, while limiting printed advertising and the transfer of rights.

8. Property release

Another overlooked aspect is that the photographer can’t use images of a property without the permission of its owner.
Even if tacit consent is common, if you want to use the images for your portfolio, I still recommend to include a property release form in the contract.
A property release is required if you want to use the images to sell stock photography or publish to a magazine. However, I suggest giving your client a guarantee that you’ll only use them to promote your own business.

9. Signature

The last step of your contract is to finish it with full, legible signatures of you and your client, along with the date. The document will only be legally valid with these.

Conclusion

After I started using a real estate photography contract, not only did I gain a higher reputation as a professional, but my work was better protected. And I could easily charge more for any additional request.
If you are serious about your real estate photography business, then you must use a contract.
You can use our free real estate photography template as a starting point. Be sure to read through it and edit it to your needs!

A Guide to Property Photography (Interior & Exterior)

Dora Jokkel — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 16:38:15 +0000

Real estate photography is one of the best ways to make money as a photographer. There will always be people selling and buying properties. So there will always be a demand for real estate photographers.
But how can you become a real estate photographer? And how do you take property photography for clients with high standards?
There is a lot to consider if you decide to get into the real estate photography business. In this article, we give you the complete guide for real estate photos.

Property Photography: Getting Started

Getting Started With Interior Photography

There is a high demand for interior photography. It is the best way to provide first impressions about a property. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. Real estate agents want to make sure to show the most beautiful photos of the house they sell.
If you are new to real estate photography, it is a good idea to start with taking a few shots of interiors. You don’t need to put yourself under a huge pressure to serve a real estate agent with high standards.
Start with getting the grasp of shooting interiors, even if it’s not for selling purposes.
Read this article about how to get started with photographing interiors.

10 Tips For Better Indoor Photography – From Lighting to Settings

When you are confident with the basics of interior photography, you can start to improve your indoor photography skills. It’s a very good way to learn to tell a story about each room in a property.
When you know the tricks of indoor photography, you get confident around any interior. You won’t be afraid of shooting in various indoors conditions.
Get comfortable with shooting indoors, learn everything from lighting to settings. Understand when to use natural light and when to apply artificial ones.
Master your indoor photography skills. You will look confident and your client will trust you.

12 Tips to Create Magazine-Worthy Interior Photography

After experimenting with interior photography, you may find this genre very appealing. You might want to take your skills to the next level. To create images that look like they could be featured in interior magazines.
Keep in mind that real estate and interior photography are different niches! They have lots of common aspects. But the latter one is more collaborative and detail-oriented. You need to work together with interior designers or architects.
There are many real estate photographers who started with interior photography. Then they moved to real estates later on. It is a good way to learn to serve clients who have high expectations. Read our post if you want to know how to take magazine-worthy photos of interiors.

How to Get Started With Real Estate Photography

Once you are confident with interiors, you can dive into real estate photography.
The purpose of real estate photos is to sell or rent out the property. You need to take photos of the interiors and the exteriors. There are more factors to keep in mind when shooting real estates. Follow the photography tips about how to get started with real estate photography.

10 Simple Tips for Impressive Real Estate Photography

After the basics, it’s time to leave your comfort zone and improve the quality of your real estate photos.
Did you know that professional real estate photographers have a standard shot list? Following it helps them to become more efficient. Read the rest of the 9 photo tips for taking impressive pictures of the properties!

10 Common Mistakes in Real Estate Photography and How to Avoid Them

When you start doing something new in photography, you are going to make mistakes. It’s fine because this is the way you learn and get better with time.
There are a few common mistakes that real estate photographers make in the beginning. For example, you forget to give clear instructions to the client about preparing the space for the photoshoot. When you arrive, the place is a mess and you have to declutter yourself. Or take photos in the untidy environment and getting unimpressive results.
Work smarter, not harder! We collected the 10 common mistakes in real estate photography. Read them, so that you can avoid and save your precious time

Gear and Equipment

Best Camera for Real Estate Photography

When you become a professional real estate photographer, you want to have the best equipment. It is a way to make sure your final results stand out from the crowd and are better than your competitors’ offer.
What is the best camera for real estate photography? Should you choose full frame or a cropped sensor device? And which cameras are appropriate for taking real estate videos?
Read our post to learn about the best cameras for real estate photographers.

Best Lens for Real Estate Photography

When you have your camera, the next tool you want to invest in is a camera lens. A lens has a huge impact on how your real estate images turn out.
The best lens should allow you to cover all different kinds of spaces. You want to make sure you shoot from the right angle and with perfect sharpness.
Choosing the ideal lens will get you great images and make your client happy. We introduce you the best wide-angle, zoom and tilt-shift lenses you can get for real estate photography.

What Is a Tilt-Shift Lens and How to Use One

In general, a wide-angle lens will keep you going when it comes to real estate photography. But you might want to experiment with more architecture photos. Or you want to make sure your exterior perspectives are on point.
Tilt-shift lenses help you get correct perspectives, even if you photograph tall buildings. The optics in the lens can be tilted and shifted. Some newer lenses even rotate.
The biggest advantage of a tilt-shift lens is that it allows you to photograph from impossible angles. This lets you get the perspective rights. It will help you keep the vertical lines in the right position.
If you want to know how you can use these lenses in real estate photography, read our post on the topic.

Best Tripods for Real Estate

A tripod is also an essential tool for real estate photography. You need to keep your camera steady in various lighting conditions. The only way to do so is by using a tripod.
The right tripod will allow you to get sharp images that make your client satisfied. It also lets you shoot from different angles to get the best possible perspective. You can leave your camera set up on the tripod while you go around and arrange the scene in the room.
Check out these tripods to make sure your real estate images are outstanding.

Real Estate Photography Lighting

Once you have your essential gear and equipment, the next thing you need to think about is lighting. When you photograph real estates, you want to make sure you highlight the property’s realistic features.
Use natural light when you can to provide a realist impression. If you use a flash, you might trick the viewer into thinking that the room is brighter than it is in reality. To avoid this, make sure you choose the right time for your photoshoot.
Natural light is the best around sunset or sunrise. Using the conditions of the Golden Hour can get you the best real estate images.
Besides using natural light, you might need to set up flashes or use fill light in the room. Check out the best advice on real estate photography lighting in the article.

Using an iPhone For Real Estate Photography

The idea of using an iPhone for professional real estate photography may sound weird. But if you have a newer iPhone, why wouldn’t you take advantage of its capacities?
For example, an iPhone 11 has two lenses: an ultra-wide-angle and a wide-angle lens. These will allow you to photograph a property with perspectives similar to using a DSLR camera.
Even if you are shooting with a smartphone, you should remember the essential real estate photography tips. Use a tripod and natural light. Pay attention to the composition rules. Make sure that vertical lines stay vertical in your images.

Niches

How to Take Professional Airbnb Photography

When you start your real estate photography business, you might want to find a market niche that is not oversaturated. Why not become a professional Airbnb photographer? The company offers a professional photography service in several regions. You can become a freelancer photographer for them.
All you need is an online portfolio and a real estate photography gear. Airbnb has guidelines you have to follow when you take photos for a client. They recommend you using landscape orientation only. This is how they upload the photos on the website. The company doesn’t allow you to use ultra-wide-angle or fisheye lenses.
Their pricing depends on the region you live in. Check out our post to learn more about Airbnb photography.

Hotel Photography

Do you have a passion for traveling? Then you should consider getting into the hotel photography business!
When you take photos of a hotel, you have to follow the key guidelines of real estate photography. But you have to involve the client more. Hotels have a detailed marketing strategy they follow. They also have a consistent brand image. Hotels want to create an aspirational story through the images.
Hotel photos are not selling the rooms. They are selling the experience of staying at that specific property.

Office Photography

Many people consider office photography a sub-genre of interior photography. But often you also need to photograph the exteriors to show the surroundings of the building.
Office photography is a very specific and small niche. Few real estate photographers choose to pursue it.
When it comes to composition in the office, the less is more rule applies. You want to make sure that every object and furniture in the image has a purpose. You need creativity for office photography too. But you have to highlight a different aspect of the property.

How To Shoot Real Estate Drone Photography

You can also decide to be different and take real estate photography to a new level. When shooting with a drone, you can create photos from new angles.
You can also get a great view of the property in its environment. You can create virtual tours of the house and provide videos to your client.
Real estate drone photography is a new niche. It can be more lucrative than the traditional method. Read our article to learn about the gear, the license and about the conditions you need for using drones in real estate photography.

Post-processing

How to Use HDR for Interior Photography

When it comes to interior or real-estate photography, HDR plays a key role in shooting and editing. HDR makes your photos look more realistic and detailed. Using it can help to balance the exterior and interior conditions in the same image.

How to Edit Real Estate Images in Lightroom or Photoshop

If you are a real estate photographer, you have to make sure to provide excellent images to your client. Photo editing is the final and unavoidable step of real estate photography.
You don’t need to create unrealistic effects. But cropping the image and adjusting some basic features are necessary. You can correct exposure, highlights, white balance or even angles.
To make your photo editing easier, shoot in RAW. It allows you to correct problems that JPG format wouldn’t let you do. Your images will be of higher quality.
For photo editing, you can use Lightroom, Photoshop or any other editing software.

How to search the Sky With Photoshop

Despite all the preparation and planning, mother nature could trick you and ruin your real estate photography. A property looks more impressive with blue sky than with storm clouds forming in the background.
You don’t have to redo your whole photoshoot. You can learn a few tricks in Photoshop and enhance your images. Read this article to learn how to replace the sky with Photoshop.
Although changing the sky is not cheating, never replace the views of a property. When you edit your images, make sure you only enhance them. You don’t want to create false impressions.

How to Make the Grass Greener in Photoshop

“The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence”, and in real estate photography.
Changing the greenness of the grass is not cheating. The image will look more inviting with a fresh-looking lawn than with some dry grass patches. You are not tricking the new owner by changing the hues of the current grass. Anybody can achieve the same results with some basic gardening skills. It’s only to make the property look more impressive.
If you were to photoshop an ocean view that the real estate doesn’t have, that would be wrong. But adjusting the color of the grass is like spraying vanilla scent around the house before potential buyers arrive. It adds a familiar aspect they can relate to.

Business and Marketing

How To Make Money in Real Estate or Interior Photography

Once you are ready for shooting real estates, it’s time to build your business. You don’t need a degree in economics to get clients. You only have to follow a few strategic steps.
It’s handy to complete thorough research on the market and on your competitors. You have to know your proposition and your place in the niche to be able to position your business. What does make you stand out from the rest of the photographers?
Based on your research, you can move onto planning your marketing tools and your pricing. You can start networking and ask your first clients to recommend you to their friends.

10 Marketing Tips for Beginner Real Estate Photography

When you decided on your business strategy, you can start promoting yourself. Real estate photography is about business and a big part of it is using the right marketing tools. Follow our tips to attract your customers.
Find something that differentiates you from your competitors. It can be your style, your extra services or the niche you specialised in. You can start highlighting your unique qualities when you promote your business.
Get to know your potential clients! Use every opportunity to network and to get new contacts. Set up a website and use social media channels to establish a presence and show your portfolio.

Real Estate Photography Pricing: Knowing How Much to Ask For

Knowing your worth and how much to ask for your work is crucial in any business. You are not the only real estate photographer who struggles with deciding on the price.
There are a couple of tips you can follow to make your pricing method easier. Study your competition and their rates. Ask real estate agents about their expectations and needs.
Taking photos is only a part of your work. You have to spend time setting up your equipment and editing photos afterwards. Communicating with the clients and getting to the property also takes a fair amount of time. Consider every extra factor when you set your price.
Read more about how to price your real estate photography in the post above.

Legal

10 Things Your Contract Must Include

When you make money from your photography, you should have a proper contract. This is to protect you, your business and establish boundaries.
A contract isn’t about not trusting your clients. It’s about securing your legal position. Making sure what both sides will deliver is essential for your business. You don’t want to lose profit only because you didn’t have the proper documentation.
You should always have a fixed cancellation and payment policy to avoid losing money. There are contract templates available for download. But when you can afford a lawyer’s review, we recommend you to do so. This will turn your contract into a legally binding document.

Real Estate Photography Contract

A real estate photography contract may need some extra parts and clarifications. Some realtors may only want to finalise your payment when they sell the property.
Others might want you to shoot only for them in a specific zone. If your client wants to involve drone photography, you need to add a special form too.
Knowing what you should include in your contract can save you from future headaches.

What Is a Property Release Form and When Do You Need One? (+Free Template)

A property release form is a type of written contract between the photographer and the client. As the name suggests, a property is in the focus of this release form.
Every release form has different conditions. Some of them include financial details and time periods. They also regulate whether you can use your images for advertising or in magazines.

Copyright Law Information for Architectural Photography

The legal background of photographing buildings can be tricky and confusing. You don’t want to get into trouble only because you didn’t know what the copyright protection for architecture was. Learn more about it in this post to make sure you know when to use it.

How to Start a Real Estate Photography Business

If you need a complete step-by-step guide on how to start a real estate photography business, check out this detailed article. It will also help you figure out whether this is the right niche for you.

How to Start a Real Estate Photography Business in 2024

Dora Jokkel — Sat, 15 Aug 2020 14:00:04 +0000

Starting a photography business is a big step and needs careful planning. Finding the right niche and genre is the first step.
There are certain general steps when starting a photography business, but every niche has its special requirements.
Read our article to learn how to start a real estate photography business.

8. Create a Business Plan to Start a Real Estate Photography Business

Having a business plan is the key to success. Create a vision and determine your short- and longterm goals.
Decide on the real estate photography niche you want to enter.
Do you want to specialise in high-end properties? Those may pay better. But the expectations are also higher. Or do you want to dive into hotel photography? Maybe you want to focus on Airbnb photography?
You can cover several niches. But it is better to be an expert in one field. It will be easier to stand out from your competition.
Do thorough market research before starting your business. Check if the local market is saturated and get to know your competitors.
Decide on your target audience. Are you going to photograph for owners or agents? Or both?
Choose a name for your real estate photography business. It should reflect your business but also catch people’s attention. And it should be easy to remember.

7. Estimate Your Costs and Incomes

Plan your costs and sources of income. You will have a higher starting cost and then ongoing costs as well.
You need to invest in equipment, editing software, a website domain and insurance. During your business operation, you will have to spend on the website maintenance, taxes and marketing materials too.
Decide on your rates. Researching your competitors’ prices helps you understand where the price level stands.
Ask your target audience about how much they are willing to pay for the services. This will help you find the price range you can consider.
Even if you dislike numbers, you need to estimate how much you will spend and how much you plan to earn. Otherwise, you won’t make any profit
Decide on the services and extras you offer. Do you want to offer virtual tours or aerial photography? Do you offer an express service and be ready in 24 hours? You can ask for a higher price for the extra services.
You can also consider if you want to teach real estate photography workshops. Many professional photographers offer courses and they rely on them as extra income.

6. Get the Paperwork Done

Once your business plan is ready, you need to form a legal entity. The best business structure depends on your location and your preferences.
You also need to register for taxes and you might need permits and licenses. This again varies with state and country. I recommend checking the local regulations.
It’s a smart idea to get a business bank account and get a business credit card. It can come handy to see your business’ credit history if you think about investors in the future.
The only way to see your expenses and incomes is to set up business accounting. This also makes tax filing easier.
Get a contract ready for your services. It should include your and your client’s rights and expectations. Make sure to involve a part on intellectual property ownership too.
I recommend getting the contract ready with a lawyer. Even if it means investment, this is not the part where you want to spare money.

5. Have a Website With Your Portfolio

Having a website showcasing your real estate photography portfolio is a must. People want to see your style and image quality.
If you have done a few real estate photography jobs, this is the time to show your best results. But make sure you don’t have any legal consequences by showing the photos on your website.
What if you don’t have any real estate photos yet? How do you build your portfolio to attract clients?
You can start by asking real estate agencies if you could take photos for free. This way, they get professional real estate photos. And you get your very first pictures to showcase in your portfolio.
You can do the same with hotels or venues. This is a win-win situation for every party.
You might want to look at real estate advertisements and approach those who have bad quality photos. Offer them a photoshoot if they let you use the pictures on your website.
When it comes to your portfolio, choose quality over quantity. Show only your best 10-15 pictures. The best professional photographers only upload a few images on their website. But those are top quality.

4. Reach out to Get Clients

Getting your first clients might be slow and difficult. You need to reach out and meet as many potential customers as possible.
Go to networking events and chat to people. Talk about your portfolio and hand out your real estate photography business cards.
Call real estate agents and talk about your services. You need to contact at least 200 real estate agencies or hotels. It sounds daunting, but trust me, you cannot give up after ten calls.
Break it up to fewer phone calls, start with 50. See how many of those calls end in a meeting and then a sell. This will help you determine how many people you have to contact to get the business going.
Don’t panic, this isn’t how it’s going to be for the rest of your photography business! Once you get your clients, they can spread the world and people will look for your services.
But to get started, you need to reach out.

3. Be Active on Social Media Platforms

Get social media presence for your real estate photography business. I recommend Instagram, Pinterest or Facebook. These are the ones that have users looking at the photos.
Try to get more and more followers. More followers mean more potential clients.
If you have a large audience, there might be big hotel brands or famous real estate agencies approaching you. They can offer you deals that make your work more famous and help their business as well.
Being active on social media is also a good way to get to know your target audience. They can give you feedback, even if it comes in the form of likes and comments.
Consider uploading a few behind the scene shots. These can show your professional setup and preparation.
Having a lot of followers means that you might get a chance to go expand into other types of photography. I know real estate photographers who transitioned into the hotel and then interior photography.

2. Ask Clients for Reviews

After the work is done, ask your clients to give you good reviews. You can showcase them on your website. Or post about them on your social media platform.
There is no better form of advertisement than word-of-mouth. People tend to trust other people’s opinion on a business.

1. Keep Your Clients Coming Back

You can build up a stable client base for your real estate photography business. There might be hotels or real estate agents who only want to work with you.
Keeping a customer is always cheaper than gaining a new one. Treat your existing clients well. You can offer discounts every now and then. Or establish a loyalty program.
Make sure you always follow up with your clients. Thank them for choosing you and make sure they are satisfied.

Conclusion

Starting a real estate photography business requires preparation and planning. You need to invest money and time to get it started.
Your efforts will lead to success. Keep improving and learning new things to deliver fantastic results. These will let you score more and more real estate photography jobs.