No Pro Photographer? No Problem: Top Tips for Snapping Better Real Estate Photos With Your iPhone
Hey there, fellow real estate pros!
I get it, sometimes hiring a professional photographer isn't in the cards, especially when the budget is tight or the commission is small. But that doesn't mean you can't still make your listings look fantastic. Here are some tips straight from me to you on how to level up your iPhone photography game.
1. Let There Be (Good) Light
Natural light is your best friend. Open up those blinds, shoot during the day, and avoid harsh overhead lights. The more natural and even the lighting, the better your photos will turn out.
2. Keep It Steady, Keep It Consistent
Invest in a small, affordable tripod or monopod. For around $20 on Amazon, you can keep your camera at a consistent height and angle, ensuring all your shots flow nicely together. Keeping the camera level—no tilting up or down—helps avoid distortion and keeps walls and lines looking straight.
3. Clean That Lens
Before you start, give your phone's lens a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth. If you have a case on your phone, sometimes it's worth popping it off to make sure there's no dust or smudges. A clean lens makes for a sharper shot.
4. Use HDR Mode
Many newer iPhones have a built-in HDR mode that helps balance out bright windows and darker interiors. Turn this on so you get a nice, even exposure without blown-out highlights or deep shadows. It makes your photos look more polished.
5. Declutter the Space
A tidy space is a welcoming space. Clear off counters, straighten up furniture, and remove any personal items that could distract buyers. This simple step can make a huge difference.
6. Find the Right Angles and Corners
Shoot from about chest height and aim to capture three corners of a room if possible to give a good sense of space. For larger rooms like a master bedroom, try to get at least three or four different angles so viewers get a full picture. For smaller spaces like a powder room, you might only get one good angle—just make it count and consider a vertical shot if needed.
7. Be Careful Going Too Wide
While wide angles can help, be mindful not to go too wide to avoid distortion. Stick around 17 to 20 millimeters if you have a choice. This keeps the room looking natural and avoids that stretched-out look.
8. Edit Lightly
A little editing can go a long way. Use apps to tweak brightness and color, but keep it natural. Your goal is to enhance, not overdo.
9. Keep the Composition Even
When you're using a tripod and shooting, make sure your photos have a balanced top-to-bottom ratio. Think of the frame in three sections: ceiling, mid-section of the room, and floor. You want these sections to be pretty even. If your camera is too high, you'll end up with a tiny ceiling and a big floor area, which looks less pleasing. Aim to keep your camera under chin level but above your chest to maintain that nice, balanced composition.
And there you go! With these tips, even if you can't bring me in every time, you can still put your best foot forward.
