Real Estate Photography Tips to Help Your Home Stand Out Online

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions really matter—especially online. Most buyers today start their home search on the internet, scrolling through endless listings before ever stepping foot in a house. If your property photos don't stand out, chances are buyers will just keep on scrolling.

But here's the good news: you don't need to be a professional photographer to make your home look amazing online. With a few simple tricks and the right approach, you can take beautiful, eye-catching photos that help your listing shine.

Whether you're using a smartphone or a DSLR camera, these beginner-friendly real estate photography tips will help you make your home look its absolute best.

Start with a Clean and Clutter-Free Space

Before you even touch the camera, make sure your home is photo-ready. Clean every room thoroughly and remove any clutter. Less really is more when it comes to real estate photography. Buyers want to see the space, not your stuff.

Think of it like setting the stage. You want the space to feel bright, open, and inviting. Put away personal items, excessive decor, and anything that might distract from the actual features of the home. Make beds, fluff pillows, and straighten chairs. Even small touches like neatly folded towels in the bathroom can make a big difference.

Let the Light In

Good lighting is everything in photography, and natural light is your best friend. Open all curtains and blinds to let sunlight fill the room. Try to shoot during the day—preferably in the morning or late afternoon—when the light is soft and warm. Harsh midday light can create shadows and make rooms feel flat.

If natural light isn't enough, turn on all the lights in the room (including lamps) to brighten things up. Avoid mixing different types of bulbs if you can, as mismatched lighting can throw off the color balance in your photos.

Choose the Right Camera (Yes, Your Phone Can Work)

You don't need a fancy camera setup to take great listing photos. Today's smartphones have impressive cameras that can do the job just fine—especially when paired with good lighting and basic editing.

That said, if you do have access to a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it can help you capture sharper images with better depth. More important than the device, though, is how you use it. A steady hand, proper lighting, and attention to framing go a long way.

If you want an extra boost, consider investing in a simple tripod. It helps keep your shots level and reduces blur from shaky hands.

Use Horizontal Orientation

Always shoot real estate photos in landscape (horizontal) orientation. Why? Because that's how listings are typically displayed on real estate websites. Vertical photos can look awkward or get cropped, which means you lose valuable visual space.

Horizontal shots give potential buyers a fuller view of each room and help create a sense of flow throughout the house.

Frame the Shot with Care

How you frame your photo is just as important as the subject itself. Try standing in the corner of a room to capture as much space as possible. Keep your camera level with the middle of the room—around 5 feet off the ground—to avoid skewed angles.

Shoot from a position where you can see three walls, if possible. This gives viewers a better sense of depth and layout. And avoid taking photos too close to furniture or walls, as this can make the room feel cramped.

Remember, you're not just documenting the space—you're telling a visual story that invites people in.

Highlight Key Selling Features

Don't forget to showcase the best aspects of your home. Is there a stunning fireplace in the living room? A newly renovated kitchen? A backyard perfect for entertaining?

Make sure these features are well-lit and clearly captured in your photos. Think about what makes your home special and let that shine through.

You should also include shots of the exterior, including the front of the house, the backyard, and any patios, decks, or gardens. Curb appeal counts—even in photos.

Edit Lightly, But Don't Overdo It

A little editing can go a long way in improving your real estate photos. Adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness to make the images pop. Crop out distractions or straighten the image if the angle is off.

There are plenty of free or low-cost editing apps available, like Snapseed, Lightroom, or even the editing tools on your phone.

Just don't go overboard. Avoid heavy filters or unrealistic enhancements. Buyers want to see what your home actually looks like—not a heavily retouched version that doesn't match reality.

Take More Photos Than You Need

It's always better to have too many photos than not enough. Take multiple shots of each room from different angles and lighting conditions. This gives you options to choose from when it's time to select the best ones for your listing.

You never know when a small change in perspective will result in a much better shot.

Consider Hiring a Pro if You're Unsure

If photography isn't your strong suit—or if your home has unique lighting challenges—consider hiring a professional real estate photographer. The investment can often pay off big-time in terms of attracting more buyers and potentially selling your home faster (and for more money).

Some real estate agents even offer professional photography as part of their listing services, so be sure to ask about it if you're working with one.

Final Thoughts

In today's digital-first world, real estate photos aren't just an afterthought—they're the first impression buyers have of your home. With these simple tips, you can capture clean, bright, and inviting images that grab attention and help your listing rise above the rest.

So take the time to prep your space, find the best lighting, and snap thoughtfully composed shots. Whether you're selling your first home or your fifth, good photography makes all the difference.