How to Photograph Homes for the Best Results and the Smoothest Editing

Photographing homes is about so much more than just pressing the shutter. A truly great real estate photo inspires and sells – and the better your source material, the easier the editing and the stronger the final result. Here are a few tips to capture the home in a way that truly enhances it!

Helgalunden shot by YtaCreative for Erik Olsson Fastighetsförmedling

1. Keep lines straight and angles balanced

Nothing makes a room look more distorted than tilted horizons and crooked lines. Use the camera’s grid and a tripod with a bubble level to ensure straight lines while shooting. We always correct perspective during editing, but the more precise the original shot, the better the final result.

Tips:

• Place the camera at midpoint between the floor and ceiling (think doorknob height for normal ceiling height).

• Adjust height depending on the ceiling or floor details.

• Don’t shoot kitchens too low – it exposes undersides of cabinets and lighting in an unflattering way.

Stora Gungans väg shot by Robert Bratsberg Karlsson for Lars Berg

2. Use the light – three exposures are enough!

Light makes all the difference. Cloudy days often yield the best, softest results. But when shooting in bright sunlight, managing the light is key to a balanced image.

Suggested exposures:

• Base exposure (natural light, no lamps) – the main foundation for our editing.

• Flash exposure – for better color and sharpness.

• Dark exposure – to preserve the window view.

Bonus tips:

• Bounce flash off ceiling or white wall.

• Avoid direct flash to reduce harsh shadows.

• Watch for mirror/window reflections.

• Use your hand to block flares.

• Add a bright exposure (EV+4) for dark back rooms.

• Add a blind-down exposure on harsh sunny days.

If you don’t use flash: 3 brackets (bright, base, dark) work well too.

3. Think like a buyer – plan your shots

Help potential buyers understand the home’s layout and flow. Show room connections (like doors between kitchen/living room or sightlines to a balcony).

Shoot in logical order to create a natural image sequence.

4. Highlight the details – the home’s personality

A home is more than just walls and floors – details complete the picture! Close-ups of materials, special joinery, or stylish finishes enhance the overall feel.

Tips:

• Shoot handheld for flexibility.

• Focus on:

  • Unique design details

  • Material choices that show the home’s character

  • Harmonious color palettes

5. Create compositional balance

Direct attention to light, space, and furnishings – not distractions. Thoughtful styling and clean compositions make for an inviting series of images.

Quick checklist:

• Hide cords

• Fluff pillows

• Check for reflections

• Angle furniture toward the camera

• Avoid distracting elements that steal focus

6. Smart delivery – smoother editing

Help us help you deliver the best results:

📷 Shoot in RAW

📁 Organize clearly – use folders with address/client/your name

Efficiency is key

The goal: a fast, effective workflow with strong, clean images – without overworking every step. Shoot smart, and you’ll get better results, faster selections, and smoother editing.

Have questions or need more tips? Get in touch – we’re happy to help.And feel free to share your own tips in the comments!

Långholmsgatan shot by YtaCreative for Erik Olsson Fastighetsförmedling