If you’re a fan of reality real estate shows, you’ll find that you not only have the chance to dream about the beautiful properties they showcase, but you can also learn numerous tips and tricks.

One point that’s often reiterated by real estate agents, whether they’re on “Selling Sunset” or working in a brokerage in your hometown, is the importance of your online listing.

It’s been shown that 98% of home buyers begin their home search online, and the majority prefer to see photos of the home rather than simply a property description.

And according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), properties with high-quality photos sell faster than those that don’t, and properties with good images sell for more money than properties of equivalent value without photos.

Since military families often move on short notice, we’re sharing some quick and easy tips for photographing your home, whether it’s for sale or for rent, and whether you’re taking photos yourself or hiring a photographer. 

1) Prepare the space.

This rule applies for all aspects of the renting and selling experience. Whether you use the term stage, declutter, or depersonalize, they all mean the same thing—clean up your home! Remove items from tables, countertops, and bookshelves to eliminate distracting items in your photos.

2) Photograph areas of interest.

Select areas of the room that have architectural design elements or depth, as these photos will highlight the style of your home and draw interest from those viewing the photos.

3) Stand in a corner. 

No, not because you have been bad, but rather because taking a photo from the corner of the room will provide dimension as opposed to photographing a room from a straight-on perspective.

4) Keep it straight. 

Rooms are made up of a variety of angles, so take care to be a straight shooter. Crooked lines can make for a distorted and confusing perspective. Photo editing tools can prove to be useful for straightening out a crooked photo.

5) Apply the rule of thirds.

One of the cornerstones of photographic composition, utilizing the “rule of thirds” will ensure that your photo includes not only the subject, but also other important elements. Visually divide your photo into nine equal parts between two equally spaced vertical and horizontal lines, and then place the important elements of the photo along those lines or at their intersection to provide depth and visual interest.

6) Use available light. 

Shooting both indoors and out can be quite challenging due to the changing light source. Choose a time of day when you don’t have direct sunlight shining through the windows or creating outdoor shadows. Avoid shooting directly into windows from the inside, as incoming light can cause exposure issues, creating a washed-out effect.

7) Use a wide-angle lens. 

A wide-angle lens is a great tool for real estate photography as it allows you to shoot a more inclusive photo. Standard lenses will cut off a good portion of the area you are attempting to capture, leaving the viewer feeling constricted. Even smart phones have wide angle lenses these days!

8) Grab a ladder. 

This may sound like a strange idea, but for those that are vertically challenged, utilizing a step stool or ladder can increase the ability to capture the essence of a room. Shooting photos from a higher perspective can help with image composure.

9) Use a tripod.

A tripod will stabilize your phone or camera, reduce any possible blurriness, help you set your lines straight, and allow you to use a slower shutter speed if the lighting is not ideal. This is an inexpensive but very useful tool.

10) Make use of photo editing tools. 

With the plethora of free photo editing tools, this is a great way to put the finishing touches on your photos. Just don’t go overboard with saturation or touch ups, but cropping, straightening lines, and enhancing can kick your photos up a notch.

The bottom line: take the time to prepare for your photo shoot in the preparation of the home, the timing of the shoot, and the equipment that you use. You only get one chance to make a good first impression! Make sure your photos speak to the true beauty and warmth of your home so that it appeals to those who are looking for a home just like yours. 

*From MilitaryByOwner Advertising, Inc. 

*To read more tips from MBO, visit our Mission:Milspouse Expert Blogger Page.