High-quality listing photos give buyers a powerful first impression of superior value, welcoming ambiance, and desirable amenities. In turn, they drive more clicks, saves, and shares — and often lead to multiple offers and competitive bidding.

But despite the fact that many of us carry cameras in our pockets, real estate agents don’t whip out their smartphones to take listing pictures (unless they’re nearly pros). The truth is, professional-grade photography and photo editing are sophisticated crafts that require the technical expertise of a trained expert.

Create Impact With High-Quality Listing Imagery

At a bare minimum, a home needs to be decluttered and spotless on the day of the shoot. In addition, a neutral color palette and sparse decorative elements make for the most appealing listing photos. A few well-placed floor plants, a simple wall hanging, or a clean, minimalist piece of furniture can add a polished touch to a room.

When it comes to the exterior, it’s important to choose a hero shot that captures a wide angle of a property so that potential buyers can see how large and spacious it is. The hero shot is also the main image that appears on property listings in online search results and real estate apps.

Aim for at least two wide-angle shots of each bedroom, the kitchen, and the living area. It’s also recommended to include one photo of the bathroom, unless it’s exceptionally beautiful or spacious. And don’t forget to take a few close-ups of any unique or special features of the home, such as a fireplace, outdoor grilling station, or built-in storage.