“Photos are crucial in real estate listings as they are often the first impression potential buyers get of a property,” says realtor Barbara Thomas. 

“Well-taken photos can make a listing stand out, attract more attention, and create a sense of urgency to schedule a viewing. According to studies, listings with high-quality images receive significantly more views and inquiries compared to those with poor or no photos. In essence, photos help potential buyers visualize themselves in the home and are essential to driving interest.”

A listing with bright and well-lit shots will attract more buyers and be sold faster than if it were dimly lit and hardly allow seeing anything. 

“Photos that are clear and well-lit give a welcoming feel to the home. Natural lighting enhances the look of spaces, making them appear larger and more inviting,” says Thomas. 

Wide-angle pictures are also more enticing to the eye. “These help showcase the full layout and size of the room, providing a better sense of space,” she further explains. 

Including high-quality exterior photos in the listing is also crucial. “A clear image of the front of the house, along with shots of any unique outdoor spaces like gardens, patios, or pools, can boost interest,” adds Thomas.

Thomas also recommends highlighting key features of the home, like modern kitchens, spacious bathrooms, or high-end finishes, which can attract buyers looking for specific qualities. 

Additionally, it might be worth staging the property a little, even virtually, as it allows potential buyers to imagine how they’ll make use of the different areas in the home. 

Of course, what’s not going to lure people into buying a property is poor lighting in the listing photos. “Dark, shadowy, or dimly lit photos make rooms feel smaller and less appealing,” Thomas says. 

Another mistake that sellers could make is taking pictures of cluttered spaces. “Rooms filled with personal items or clutter can distract buyers and make it difficult for them to imagine themselves in the space,” Thomas says. If it’s not possible to declutter the areas of the home, at least try to move unnecessary things out of the shot. 

Awkward angles are an additional no-no as they don’t reveal the room’s full potential and can mislead or frustrate potential buyers. So put down the fish eye lens, as it doesn't do anyone any favors.

Thomas also recommends against giving into the temptation of overediting. “Using too many filters or heavy photo editing to make the property look better than it is in reality can set buyers up for disappointment, leading to fewer serious inquiries.”

Lastly, make sure to provide plenty of photos for the potential buyers, stresses Thomas. “Listings with very few photos or missing shots of key rooms like the kitchen, living room, or bathrooms may cause potential buyers to skip over the listing.”