Real estate photography is like the art of storytelling—it draws people in, captures attention, and invites viewers to imagine life in a new home. But even minor mistakes can detract from a property’s appeal, making it harder for potential buyers to connect. Here are 10 common photography pitfalls to avoid, along with practical solutions to help each property you capture look its best!

1. Poor Lighting

• The Issue: Dark or overly shadowed photos can make even the brightest rooms seem dull and uninviting.
• Quick Fix: Harness natural light whenever possible. Aim for photos during the day, open all curtains, and turn on indoor lights. And if you want an extra touch of brightness, editing software can help brighten areas without overexposing details.

2. Off Angles and Awkward Perspectives

• The Issue: Low or inconsistent angles often make rooms feel distorted or cramped, confusing the viewer’s sense of space.
• Quick Fix: Capture from chest height for balanced shots, and test a few different angles for each room. This ensures that every shot shows off a room’s true dimensions and flow. A tripod can make a world of difference for stability, too!

3. Cluttered Rooms

• The Issue: Messy countertops, visible cords, and other distractions can draw attention away from the space itself.
• Quick Fix: Take a few minutes to tidy up before each shot. Removing personal items and simplifying the space creates a clean, inviting look that helps buyers envision their own belongings in the room.

4. Overlooking Curb Appeal

• The Issue: Focusing on interiors and skipping exterior shots can overlook what is often a home’s biggest selling point—the first impression.
• Quick Fix: Take a couple of shots of the entrance, front yard, and any other unique exterior features. This brings out the home’s character, and enhancements like sky replacement can even help brighten a cloudy day!

5. Blurry or Out-of-Focus Photos

• The Issue: Blurry photos can make even the best listing seem unprofessional, causing viewers to quickly lose interest.
• Quick Fix: Keep your camera steady with a tripod, and set it to high resolution. This way, every detail shines through, creating images that feel sharp, polished, and inviting.

6. Not Using a Wide-Angle Lens

• The Issue: Small rooms or tight spaces can feel confined and less appealing.
• Quick Fix: A wide-angle lens is a real estate photographer’s best friend, helping open up even the coziest of spaces to feel airy and welcoming. It’s a worthwhile investment for capturing the property’s true size.

7. Inconsistent Lighting Between Shots

• The Issue: Different lighting can make a home feel disjointed or jarring as viewers scroll through the photos.
• Quick Fix: Aim to shoot at a consistent time of day and, when needed, edit to create a similar brightness and tone across all photos. This adds a seamless look to the listing and gives potential buyers a clear view of the space.

8. Reflective Surfaces Revealing Unwanted Details

• The Issue: Mirrors, glass, and shiny objects can unintentionally capture the photographer or other distracting elements.
• Quick Fix: Pay attention to angles and reflections, or be ready to adjust in post-production. Removing these can help the photo feel more professional and polished.

9. Heavy Use of Filters and HDR

• The Issue: While tempting, too much HDR or heavy filtering can create an overly processed, artificial look.
• Quick Fix: Keep enhancements light and natural. A gentle touch-up for brightness or contrast works wonders without making the home look too far from reality. You want viewers to feel they’re stepping into the property, not a digitally enhanced version of it.

10. Skipping Virtual Staging in Empty Rooms

• The Issue: Unfurnished rooms often lack warmth and character, making it hard for buyers to envision the space’s potential.
• Quick Fix: Virtual staging can bring these rooms to life, offering a sense of scale and lifestyle that sparks imagination. It’s a simple addition that can make a big difference!

By following these tips, you can ensure every property photo you take helps buyers fall in love at first sight. After all, a well-presented home is the first step in making the dream of homeownership feel possible!