Take Pro-level Real Estate Photos with Your Phone

As a real estate agent, you know the importance of high-quality photos when it comes to showcasing your listings. But let's be real - not everyone has the budget for a professional photographer. That's where your trusty cell phone comes in.

With a little bit of know-how, you can take stunning real estate photos with just your phone. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Use the right camera settings: Most smartphones have a "Pro" or "Manual" mode that lets you adjust settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. Experiment with these settings to get the best results for your specific lighting conditions. And if all else fails, just turn on the "Interiors" setting and hope for the best. Or, hire a professional photographer.
2. Keep your lens clean: It sounds simple, but a dirty lens can ruin even the most perfectly composed shot. Make sure to wipe your lens clean before each use (or at least pretend like you did). Or, hire a professional photographer.
3. Pay attention to lighting: Good lighting is key when it comes to taking great photos. Try to take photos during the "golden hours" (the first and last hours of sunlight) for softer, more natural light. If you have to shoot during the day, try to avoid harsh shadows by positioning yourself in a way that takes advantage of available light (or just use the flash and hope for the best). Or, hire a professional photographer.
4. Use a tripod: A tripod will help you keep your phone steady and eliminate blurry photos. You can find inexpensive options at most electronics stores or online (or just use a stack of books and pray it doesn't topple over). Or, hire a professional photographer.
5. Experiment with angles: Don't be afraid to try out different angles and perspectives to add interest to your photos. Get down low for a dramatic shot of a grand entrance, or go up high for a bird's-eye view of the property (just watch out for low-hanging branches). Or, hire a professional photographer.
6. Edit your photos: Even the best photos can benefit from a little editing. Most smartphones come with basic editing tools, or you can use a free app that are available online to touch up your photos. Just be careful not to overdo it - you want your photos to look natural, not overly processed (or like you Photoshopped in a unicorn). Or, hire a professional photographer.
7. Show off the best features of the property: Think about what makes the property unique and highlight those features in your photos. Is there a beautiful fireplace in the living room? A sprawling backyard? Make sure to showcase those elements in your photos (just don't forget to include the creepy basement). Or, hire a professional photographer.
8. Avoid clutter: Cluttered rooms can be distracting and make it hard for potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Try to remove any unnecessary items from the frame before taking your photo (like that embarrassing collection of beanie babies). Or, hire a professional photographer.
9. Take a lot of photos: The more photos you take, the more options you'll have to choose from. Don't be afraid to snap several photos of each room to ensure you get the best shot (just make sure to delete the ones where you made a weird face). Or, hire a professional photographer.
10. Have fun: Taking real estate photos with your cell phone can be a fun and creative process. Don't stress too much and remember to have fun with it (even if it means making silly faces in every photo). Hiring a professional photographer can be fun too!

By following these tips, you can take professional-quality real estate photos with just your cell phone. Happy shooting!

 Here are a few more tips to help you take stunning real estate photos with your phone:

1. Get the right apps: There are plenty of apps out there that can help you take better photos with your phone. Consider downloading a camera app that gives you more control over settings like exposure and white balance.
2. Use a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens can help you capture more of a room in a single shot, which is especially helpful in smaller spaces. You can find clip-on wide-angle lenses for most smartphones online or at electronics stores.
3. Create a sense of space: When taking photos of a property, try to show off the layout and flow of the space. This can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the home.
4. Use natural light: Natural light is always the best choice when it comes to taking photos. If you can, try to take photos during the day and take advantage of windows to let in as much natural light as possible.

Of course, I'm a little biased. But I think you'd be way better off to hire a professional real estate photographer.

But if you're all gung-ho to take photos yourself and would like some personal help, I love showing people how to take pictures! Hit me up and we can schedule a photo training session absolutely free.