Why Professional Real Estate Photography Matters
According to the National Association of Realtors, 97% of home buyers use the internet to search for properties. Your listing photos are the first impression – and often the deciding factor in whether buyers schedule a showing.
Studies show that listings with high-quality photos receive 118% more online views than those with standard photos. In competitive markets, professional imagery isn't optional – it's essential.
Real Estate Photo Optimization Tips
- Correct White Balance: Indoor photos often look yellow. Use our color correction to achieve natural, bright tones.
- Brighten Dark Rooms: Underexposed rooms feel small. Increase brightness to make spaces feel open and inviting.
- Consistent Sizing: All images in a listing should be the same dimensions for professional presentation.
- Optimize File Size: Large files slow down listing pages. Compress without losing quality for fast loading.
Platform Image Requirements
MLS (Standard)
2048x1536px
Ratio: 4:3
Zillow
2048x1536px
Ratio: 4:3
Realtor.com
1920x1080px
Ratio: 16:9
Redfin
2048x1536px
Ratio: 4:3
Real Estate Photo FAQ
What image size do MLS listings require?
Most MLS systems require images between 1024x768 and 2048x1536 pixels. The standard aspect ratio is 4:3. File sizes are typically limited to 5-10MB per image. Check your specific MLS for exact requirements.
How do I make property photos look more appealing?
Focus on three things: proper white balance (avoid yellow indoor lighting), increased brightness for dark rooms, and enhanced contrast to make spaces feel vibrant. Our enhancement tools can handle all of these automatically.
What's the best time to photograph properties?
The 'golden hours' – 1-2 hours after sunrise or before sunset – provide the best natural light. For interior shots, midday provides consistent lighting through windows. Overcast days work well for avoiding harsh shadows.
How many photos should a real estate listing have?
Research shows listings with 20+ photos get 2x more views than those with fewer images. Include exterior, every room, key features (kitchen, bathrooms), backyard, and neighborhood amenities.
Can I use ImageWand for virtual staging?
ImageWand can prepare images for virtual staging by enhancing lighting and removing backgrounds. For full virtual staging (adding furniture), you'd need specialized software, but we help with the image prep work.