You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take great photos. A few simple steps can elevate your pictures.

  1. Tidy up. Start by making your home look its best. Clean up. Remove any clutter from the room you’re photographing. Organize the space neatly. Make it look inviting to guests.
  2. See the light. Sunshine can present your room in the best light for photos. Open the curtains! Buyers want to know how much light a room receives. If the room does not receive much natural light, make sure the room is well lit to showcase the room’s features. Avoid harsh lighting if possible; consider changing light bulbs or using lamps. The same idea goes for outdoor shots. Choose a sunny day to take exterior pictures.
  3. Show off. Choose a point of view that shows off as much of the room as possible. Taking a photo in a corner may take in the full view of the room. Doorways are often a good option.
  4. Tell a story. If you want to show that the dining room is right next to the kitchen, take a photo with the dining room in the foreground and the kitchen in the background (or vice versa). If a window has a great view, make sure you can see the view in your photo. If a fireplace is the centerpiece of a room, place it in the middle of your photo.
  5. No filter. Make sure your photos are clear and in focus. Don’t add any filters or embellishments—they won’t impress buyers.
  6. Don’t forget! Buyers want to see your entire home. Take photos of bathrooms, attics, and garages. Include any outside features as well: front and back yards, patios, and pools.

You can find more real estate photos tips from HGTV and realtor.com. For help showcasing and marketing your property, talk to a REALTOR®.