How Many Photos Do You Need For Your Real Estate Listing?

How Many Photos Do You Need For Your Real Estate Listing?

When it comes to selling or renting homes, a carefully curated real estate photography shot list is key to success. However, choosing the right number of photos for a listing can be tricky. This blog explores the ideal number of photos needed for a great real estate listing and how to pick the right ones.

Real Estate Photography Shot List: How Many Photos Do You Need For Your Real Estate Listing?

According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, 87% of buyers who used the internet during their house search found photos increasingly helpful. While pictures are important, real estate photography is about more than just taking photos – it's about storytelling. 

Woman editing photos on her desktop computer

A well-structured collection of photos can guide potential buyers through the home, helping them visualize their life in the space. Too few images may leave out details, while too many can overwhelm and confuse buyers. Striking the right balance is important for creating a compelling, visually appealing listing.

The recommended number of shots for a real estate listing often depends on the size and layout of the property. For example, a one-bedroom apartment will require fewer photos than a sprawling multi-level home. However, there are general guidelines to follow – whether you capture a cozy apartment or an expansive estate.

The Ideal Number of Shots for a Real Estate Listing

The number of listing photos one should include in real estate marketing depends on the size and complexity of the property. However, most experts believe 15 to 30 photos are the sweet spot. This range provides enough variety without overwhelming potential buyers.

Small Properties (Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments)

For small properties, around 10 to 15 photos should be enough. Make sure to cover key areas, such as:

  • The main living area
  • Kitchen
  • Bathroom(s)
  • Any additional features, such as a balcony or view

Medium-Sized Properties (2-3 Bedroom Homes)

You'll need 15 to 25 photos for a typical two or three-bedroom house or apartment. This should cover:

  • Front and back exterior shots
  • Living room
  • Dining area
  • Kitchen
  • Main bedroom
  • Additional bedrooms
  • Bathrooms
  • Special features (e.g., a deck, pool, or garden)

Large Properties (4+ Bedrooms, Luxury Homes)

Larger properties often require 25 to 30 photos or more. In addition to the basic shots, you must include images of:

Large picturesque 3-story green house

  • Multiple living spaces (family room, den, etc.)
  • Primary suite (bedroom, bathroom, and closet)
  • Additional bedrooms and bathrooms
  • Formal dining room and any unique spaces such as a home office or gym
  • Outdoor spaces (patio, pool, expansive yard)
  • Any high-end finishes or architectural features (e.g., fireplaces, vaulted ceilings)

Types of Shots You Need

To capture the full scope of your client's real estate property, it's essential to include a variety of shots that tell a compelling visual story. Here are some important shots to consider.

Wide-Angle Shots

Wide-angle shots help showcase a room's full space. These are important for giving potential buyers a sense of how large or small a space is and how rooms connect to each other. 

For most rooms, one to two wide-angle shots taken from opposite corners – giving two perspectives – are enough.

Exterior Shots

Don't forget the outside. The home's exterior is the first thing people see, and it's an important part of the listing. Make sure to take:

  • 1-2 photos of the front
  • 1-2 shots of the backyard or garden area

Include a few extra shots of special features like a deck or pool.

Detail Shots

While wide-angle shots give a general view, detail shots can highlight specific features that make the home unique, like:

  • High-end kitchen appliances
  • Crown molding
  • Custom cabinetry
  • Beautiful light fixtures

These details give potential buyers a sense of luxury and thoughtfulness in the design.

Room-Specific Shots

Make sure you cover the main rooms of the house. A typical breakdown might look like this:

  • Living room: 2 to 3 shots
  • Kitchen: 2 to 3 shots (one wide-angle, one close-up of the appliances or counters)
  • Bedrooms: 1 to 2 shots per room
  • Bathrooms: 1 shot per bathroom, two if the master bath is particularly large or luxurious
  • Dining room: 1 to 2 shots
  • Outdoor space: 2 to 4 shots, depending on the size and features

Large living room with a gray couch and faded rug

3 Tips to Get Quality Real Estate Photos

While the number of photos is important, the quality of each shot matters even more. Poor lighting, bad angles, or blurry images can make even the most beautiful home look unattractive. 

Here are some real estate photography tips to help you capture high-quality shots for your client’s real estate listing:

  • Use Natural Light: Whenever possible, use natural light to make rooms look bright and inviting. Shoot during the day, ideally in the late morning or early afternoon, when the light is soft yet abundant.
  • Stage the Space: Make sure the home is clean and clutter-free. Staging with simple, neutral furniture can help potential buyers imagine their own things in the space.
  • Edit Wisely: Basic editing, such as adjusting brightness, contrast, and cropping, can enhance your real estate photos. However, avoid over-editing or using filters that make the home look different from reality.

Related Questions

How Can Staging Impact Real Estate Photos?

Staging helps create an inviting and clutter-free space that allows potential buyers to visualize themselves living in the home. It enhances the appeal and makes photos and the home more attractive.

Why Is Natural Light Important in Real Estate Photography?

Natural light brightens rooms and makes them feel more welcoming. It helps highlight the true colors and features of the property, creating professional, high-quality, appealing images.

How Can Editing Improve Real Estate Photos?

Basic editing, like adjusting brightness and contrast, can enhance overall image quality. However, it's important to avoid over-editing so the photos reflect the property accurately.

Conclusion

Creating a real estate photography shot list is important to effectively showcase a property. Remember to include various wide-angle and detail shots that display the property's best features. This will enhance the property's value, attract more potential buyers, and increase the chances of a faster sale.