CAPTURE STUNNING HERO SHOTS: ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR PROPERTY PHOTOGRAPHY
Taking a standout hero shot in real estate marketing involves capturing an image that showcases the property in its best light, both physically and conceptually. Here are seven essential tips to create a spectacular hero shot!
1. Timing and Lighting
Shoot during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—to capture warm, soft light that enhances the property's appeal. If you're short on time and can't wait for ideal lighting, consider using our Day to Dusk edit for a mesmerizing skyline effect.
2. Composition
Frame the shot to highlight the property's best features, whether it's the front facade of a house or a compelling view from a condo.
3. Prepping and Staging
Before shooting, ensure the property is clutter-free and well-staged. Use our Item Removal & Virtual Clean services to tidy up and enhance visual appeal if needed.
Arrange furniture and decor to invoke a welcoming atmosphere that potential buyers or renters can envision themselves in. If staging is not feasible, you can use Virtual Staging to dramatically improve your hero shot.
4. Camera Settings
Use a wide-angle lens to capture more space but be careful not to distort the perspective. Shoot at a small aperture (around f/8 to f/11) for sharpness throughout the frame. HDR bracketing can also enhance your photos by capturing a range of exposures. If you are unsure how to capture bracketed photos, you can use our photo app SnapSnapSnap – it will automatically shoot different exposures for you.
5. Angles
Experiment with different angles to find the most flattering view of the property. Shooting slightly from above ground level can often make the property appear more spacious and inviting.
6. Highlight Unique Features
Showcase standout features like pools, gardens, or architectural details that make the property unique. Incorporate natural elements to enhance its appeal.
7. Editing and Post-Processing
After capturing the shot, edit it for color balance, contrast, and clarity. Avoid over-saturating to maintain natural aesthetics. Consider using our Image Enhancement service for a polished yet realistic final touch.
Follow these tips to capture a hero shot that effectively showcases your property, attracting more potential buyers or renters. Sign up at BoxBrownie.com for four free edits—no credit card needed—to see how we can elevate your hero shot to perfection!
RELATED ARTICLES
If you’re a real estate agent, property manager, or builder using an iPhone, you’re already halfway to great listing photos. SnapSnapSnap takes you all the way — with automatic HDR, built-in framing guides, and professional editing at your fingertips. See why our app outperforms your iPhone every time for property photography.
READ MORE
Discover how technology is revolutionizing the real estate industry in our new webinar, 'Tech-Forward Real Estate: Fostering Efficiency and Client Relationships.' Join us to explore how adopting cutting-edge tools can supercharge your productivity and help you build deeper, more meaningful connections with clients.
READ MORE
Social media is great for selling real estate. But each platform takes a different kind of mastery. Here's how to use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (and others) to maximum advantage.
READ MORE
Get your team 2026-ready with our free property marketing training! We tailor each session to your team’s needs — from cost-effective photography that streamlines your marketing to creating listings that stop the scroll. Save time, boost results, and start January strong.
READ MORE
Agents across the globe swear by the power of Virtual Staging, but many don't realize they can shoot these images with their own smartphone. This post walks you through just how easy it is, so you'll never be deprived of this phenomenal marketing tool.
READ MORE
It takes a special narrative for MLS content to click on social media. Here's how to weave your Floor Plans, Images and Virtual Tours into an irresistible narrative that gets everyone gawking at your latest MLS listing.
READ MORE