The exterior photograph is often the first image a potential buyer sees. A stunning exterior photo can be the difference between a click and a scroll. Use these tips to ensure your listing makes the best possible first impression.
Staging and Preparation
Before you or your photographer arrive, proper staging is essential. This sets the scene and eliminates distractions.
- Tidy the Yard: Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove any dead foliage.
- Declutter: Remove garbage cans, garden hoses, tools, and any toys or personal items from the immediate vicinity.
- Curb Appeal Check: Ensure the front door, windows, and any visible outdoor furniture are clean. Power-wash the driveway or walkways if needed.
- Vehicles: The photographer should ask the homeowners to remove all vehicles from the driveway and the immediate street in front of the house.
- Repairs: Fix any obvious maintenance issues like peeling paint, broken gutters, or non-functioning exterior lights.
The time of day directly impacts the quality and mood of the photo.
Timing Strategy | Description | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
Golden Hour (Sunrise/Sunset) | Soft, warm light that creates long shadows and a welcoming atmosphere. | Luxury listings, homes with great views, and creating a dramatic effect. |
Mid-Morning/Mid-Afternoon | Bright, even light that shows true color and architectural detail. | Homes facing East or West to minimize harsh shadows. |
Twilight/Dusk | "Money Shot" - Interior and exterior lights are on, creating a glow that highlights windows and warmth. | All listings for a primary photo. |
Composition and Technical Details
High-quality equipment and thoughtful composition are non-negotiable for professional-grade photos.
Key Composition Rules- Straight Lines: Ensure vertical lines in the image (walls, door frames) are perfectly straight. Use a tripod and adjust the camera to avoid converging lines.
- Rule of Thirds: Position the house and the main focal points along the intersecting points or lines to create a more engaging image.
- Context: Include some of the surrounding environment, such as trees or a neighboring yard, to give the property a sense of place.
Element | Action |
|---|---|
Exterior Lights | Turn on all porch, landscape, and security lights, even during the day. |
Interior Lights | Turn on every light inside the house to add warmth and depth to the windows. |
Weather | Postpone the shoot if there is heavy rain or a very overcast sky. Bright but diffused clouds often work well. |
Post-Processing
Even the best photograph benefits from professional editing.
- Color Correction: Adjust white balance to ensure colors are true (no blue tint from shadows or yellow tint from interior lights).
- Lawn Enhancement: Subtle greening of the lawn and darkening of the sky can make the photo pop, but avoid an artificial look.
- Lens Distortion: Correct any wide-angle distortion that may warp the building's appearance.