Shooting Basics
How to Setup Your Smartphone
- Exposure Bracketing - The secret to standout real estate photos is Automatic Exposure Bracketing (AEB). Smartphone cameras don't include this feature by default - but a simple app adds AEB to any iOS or Android device.
iPhone App Android App
- Wide-Angle Indoors - For all indoor photos use wide-angle mode: Listed as 0.5x or 0.6x on most devices.
- Standard Zoom Outdoors - When shooting outdoors always use the standard 1x mode.
- No Flash - Always turn off your camera flash: Turn on every light and open all curtains to maximum natural light.
- Use a Tripod - Use of a tripod is highly recommended. Capturing 3 images with AEB can take about 2 seconds. You need to hold the camera very still or use a tripod. Smartphone tripods are available at online stores for only around $25
- Turn Your Phone - Always hold your smartphone in landscape orientation: Portrait orientation will only make your rooms appear smaller.
Shooting Basics
Area Preparation
- Clean and Declutter - Remove personal items, wall clutter, excess furniture, and other visual distractions: Potential buyers/renters would rather see a clean slate they can make their own.
- Strategic Additions - Fresh flowers, fluffed pillows, and neatly arranged table settings can be a great addition.
- Exterior Staging - Freshly mowed lawn, remove overgrowth, hang or remove garden hoses, and straighten lawn furniture. Move all vehicles, boats, campers, out of the driveway and away from the house or garage.
Shooting Basics
Composition Basics
- Height and Aim - For interior photography the camera height should always be around 4.5ft to 5ft, and always aiming perfectly level: Camera aiming level at approximate vertical center of wall height will create an even composition of floor and ceiling in each shot. (Note: maintain the same 4.5ft to 5ft height even in rooms with open vault ceilings)
Tip: Using a tripod is very helpful for maintaining consistency
- 3 Wall Rule - Each shot should include a portion of 3 walls. Even if just a small slice of the third wall. This technique adds dimensional perspective making the space feel larger. This one simple rule will significantly improve all of your interior images.Tip: You can use the front side of furniture, cabinets, or appliances as the third' wall
- Back Up - A smartphone wide-angle lens will create a slight 'fisheye' effect. Our processing will correct the distortion. During this editing process lower corners will be trimmed out. Keeping this in mind - when the view screen appears like the correct composition - move back one step if possible.
Shooting Basics
Common Angles
- Corner to Corner - Aim into the corner of a room. Adjust location to aim down the walking path and not at the back of furniture. Always continue to follow the 3-wall rule.
- Straight-On Wall - Aim camera exactly perpendicular to a wall. Center on wall when possible, or center on focal point. Always continue to follow the 3-wall rule.
- Split View Composition - Choose an angle that captures two narrow spaces side-by-side. A great option for small bathrooms, hallways, mudrooms, stairways, and closets. Never use portrait orientation. Whenever tempted - Split View can be a great alternative.
- Special Features - Capturing special features like balconies, fireplaces, farmhouse sinks, barn doors, custom fixtures, or high-end appliances is the one time you can violate the Composition Basics. Camera height, level aim, and wide-angle mode can all be adjusted for one special feature image.
Shooting Basics
Outdoor Angles
- Hero Shot - Aiming straight-on the front entrance. Back far enough to include the entire structure. Try to capture even amounts of the sky and yard.
- Corner Angle - Centering one corner of the house at a 45° angle to include the front plus one additional side. A good way to feature yard space.
- Height Variations - Try different heights from knee high up to as far as your arm will reach.Tip: Shoot many outdoor images from different perspectives and choose the best later.
