This article is an external press release originally published on the Landlord News website, which has now been migrated to the Just Landlords blog.
Photography is a hugely important factor in selling a house. Homebuyers rated photos as the feature they use most when searching for a home on the internet, according to the National Association of Realtors.1
Online advertisements with bad photos, or no photos at all, can cause potential buyers to look past a property. This week, we showcased some of the worst estate agent photos. Here are some tips on how to avoid bad photos, and what you can do to highlight the best parts of your property:
Before taking photos
- Invest in a good quality camera:
Mobile phone cameras have progressed recently, however, they are not the best devices to use when aiming for high-quality shots. Any point-and-shoot digital camera is suitable for the job, as long as it uses five megapixels or more. If you are willing to spend a bit more, or already have one, a digital SLR is perfect for the job, as it offers more settings and lenses.
- Stage the home:
How to Take Better Estate Agent Photos
Homeowners should remember that it is the property’s space, not the furniture or ornaments that should catch the buyer’s attention. The home should be cleared of clutter before being photographed, and of course be clean.
The photos
- Natural lighting:
Rooms appear brighter and more open when natural lighting is used. The flash can sometimes create glares and shadows, so this should not be used if possible. Avoid taking interior photos on rainy or gloomy days, as this will block out the natural light. Darker days can be good for exterior photos however, as this will avoid the sun creating dark shadows over the house.
- Angles and composition
Shooting from a corner or doorway is the best way to show off the whole room, and includes as much as possible in one picture. This angle will give the room context, and make it seem bigger. Exterior photos should also be taken from an angle, instead of straight on, as the buyer will get an idea of the house’s depth.
After taking photos
- Editing
It is always best to make photos bigger and determine if they need editing. There could be distracting shadows, or outdoor obstructions that do not compliment the home. Free online editing tools, such as Picnik, or Snipshot are easy ways to crop photos, adjust the brightness and contrast, and correct colours.
- The listing
Choosing the right website to showcase your property is important, but the wording to go with the photos is also vital. Catchy descriptions can help buyers relate to the image, and will paint an attractive picture of the home.
1 http://blogs.mckissock.com/real-estate/2015/02/10/5-ways-take-better-real-estate-photos/
