Real Estate Photography Tips and Best Practices
Whether you're taking photos yourself or hiring a professional, keep these best practices in mind to ensure your property looks its best:
1. Prepare Your Space: The first step in any successful photoshoot is preparation. Clean and declutter your property thoroughly. Pay attention to details like straightening wall hangings, fluffing pillows, and making sure all surfaces shine.
- Interior: Ensure that the living room, bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms are spotless. Highlight key features such as large windows, spacious rooms, and unique decor elements.
- Exterior: Don't forget the outdoor spaces. Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and clean any outdoor furniture. If your property has a pool, make sure it's sparkling clean.
2. Staging Matters: Staging your property can significantly enhance the appeal of your photos. Simple touches like fresh flowers, a set dining table, or a cozy blanket draped over a chair can make your space feel more inviting.
- Pro Tip: Use items that are available to the guest during their stay. This helps them envision their experience at your property.
3. Timing is Everything: The time of day can drastically affect the outcome of your photos. Shoot during the day when natural light is at its best. For outdoor shots, consider capturing the property at dusk to showcase any outdoor lighting and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
4. Include Unique Selling Points: Highlight the unique aspects of your property. Whether it's a stunning view, proximity to local attractions, or a beautifully designed interior, make sure these features are prominently displayed in your photos.
- Pro Tip: Include photos of nearby amenities like parks, restaurants, or beaches to create a connection between your property and the surrounding area.
5. Avoid Clutter in Photos: Ensure your images are clean and free of distractions. This means avoiding personal items, excessive furniture, or anything that might detract from the appeal of the space. Simplicity and cleanliness are key to making your property look inviting.
6. Use the Right Resolution: To ensure your photos look sharp and professional, follow Hosteeva’s guidelines and aim for a minimum resolution of 3000 x 1536 pixels. This will help your images maintain high quality across various platforms.
Hosteeva Photo Guidelines
Hosteeva recommends a minimum of 30 high-quality photos, with specific requirements for different areas of your property:
1. Living Room: 3-5 photos from different angles
2. Dining Area: 2-3 photos
3. Bedrooms: 2-3 photos per room, including full views and closet shots if available
4. Bathrooms: 2-3 photos capturing all essential features
5. Kitchen: Full view plus pictures of all appliances
6. Outdoor Spaces: Include images of balconies, terraces, patios, and any recreational areas
For more detailed instructions, check the Hosteeva Photo Guide to ensure your listing meets all requirements.
Professional photography is a powerful tool that can significantly impact your property’s performance in the short-term rental market. By investing in high-quality photos, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your listing but also increase your chances of attracting more bookings and boosting your revenue. Follow these tips and best practices to ensure your property stands out from the competition and captures the attention of potential guests.