CAN YOU VIRTUALLY STAGE A PHOTO TAKEN WITH A SMARTPHONE?
Introduction
We all know how hard it is to make a vacant property feel inviting and lived in which is exactly why Virtual Staging is such an amazing tool for real estate agents. This innovative edit is a great way to attract more buyers and show off the potential of a property.
But the question we get asked all the time is, can you virtually stage a smartphone image? So, in this blog, we are going to test the Virtual Staging edit using three devices:
• Nikon D7200 (professional DSLR camera)
• Samsung S9 smartphone (with the Moment wide-angle lens attachment)
• iPhone 11 smartphone (with the inbuilt wide-angle lens)
For simplicity, we will be shooting all these images in single-exposure and then sending the unedited images for Image Enhancement and then Virtual Staging.
Testing The DSLR
For this comparison, we have shot this room at 12mm (18mm full-frame equivalent) in the program settings with the flash on. We have also used a tripod for all these images to limit any potential movement in the shot.
Testing The Samsung S9 With The Moment Wide-angle Lens
Smartphone lenses are increasingly quite wide so to maintain a similar aspect ratio for this comparison, we have adjusted the tripod positioning slightly. Simply click on the screen to find the correct focus and then take the shot.
Testing The iPhone 11 With Inbuilt Wide-Angle Lens
The iPhone’s inbuilt wide-angle lens is incredibly wide so you may find the need to zoom in slightly which we have done here. As we have discussed in previous blogs, we truly believe this smartphone could be a game-changer for real estate photography.
The Comparison
As you can see from the comparison images, the results are simply incredibly across all devices tested and it’s hard to tell any difference.
There’s no doubt about it, the iPhone 11’s inbuilt wide-angle lens is awesome and is such a powerful feature. Considering the Samsung S9 was released back in 2018, the image quality is extremely good and hard to tell apart from the iPhone when using the Moment wide-angle lens attachment.
It’s important to note when blowing the images up on a large screen, the DSLR still is the best quality however smartphones are definitely closing the gap and producing a fantastic result.
For more tips on shooting a property with a smartphone, you can check out our previous blog How To Take Professional Photos On Your iPhone or Android.
How To Virtually Stage Your Image
While it’s not absolutely required, it is recommended that prior to having your images virtually staged, you have them enhanced using our Image Enhancement edit. This will ensure the best possible image is being used in the staging process. Having your images virtually staged is easy and can be completed in just a few steps:
1) Go to BoxBrownie.com, login and navigate to your Dashboard
2) Select the Virtual Staging edit
3) Enter a Job Title
4) Upload the photos to be edited and select the furniture style
5) Enter any preferences you may have including disclaimer text
6) Upload any reference images that could help our editors
7) Select Checkout
It really is that simple. Once submitted, our team of editors will get started on virtually staging your image in line with your preferences and have the completed image back to you within 48 hours.
Conclusion
No longer do you require big expensive professional camera equipment to take magazine-quality real estate images. With the help of our editors and a smartphone, you really can take fantastic shots and produce top-quality results.
The iPhone 11’s wide-angle lens is a true game-changer and even if you are using a slightly older smartphone like the Samsung S9, you can still take great images. Just be sure to use quality attachments like the Moment wide-angle lens. Whether you’re a real estate agent or a homeowner, don’t be afraid of using your smartphone especially if you are looking for an affordable alternative to DSLR cameras.
Of course, we always use the DSLR as a control in tests like this and would absolutely recommend shooting a property with a DSLR if your budget allows. However, if that’s simply not possible, a good-quality smartphone is a fantastic alternative.
If you’d like to get started with having one of your own images virtually staged, visit BoxBrownie.com online today or get in touch with our friendly team, we’d love to hear from you.
RELATED ARTICLES
Michael Jordan became a great basketball player because he developed all aspects of his game. Michael LaFido became a great realtor because he has developed a marketing repertoire to suit any property. Let’s look at these two great Michaels from Chicago, and see what else we can learn.
READ MORE
Elevate your listings in our free SnapSnapSnap webinar! Learn to capture stunning property photos using your iPhone, master simple staging tips, and explore our exclusive 4-week bootcamp to boost your photography skills and transform your marketing.
READ MORE
Do you have a property that has been sitting on the market for far too long? That's exactly what happened to Brittiny Howard from EXP Realty. Brittiny's property sat cold on the market for 6 months. Find out how she made a slight change to her advertising which then helped her sell her property only 7 days later.
READ MORE
“Two offers came in today, two days after adding the virtually staged rooms. The best value for investment!” These are the ecstatic words from Carol Jacob (from Signature Realty Associates) who was thrilled with how much virtual staging accelerated the sale of her listing.
READ MORE
As a real estate marketing tool, your smartphone is more powerful than you think. As the housing market cools, these 5 hot tips explain how to get the most out of your mobile device, while saving time, money and turning heads.
READ MORE
Sales inquiries are the lifeblood of a successful real estate career. Nothing generates them like exceptional marketing. These 8 tips will ensure that your listings stand out from the crowd and that buyers keep your phone a-ringing!
READ MORE