When it comes to selling a home, presentation is everything. Real estate agents and homeowners understand the importance of showcasing their properties in the best possible light. And to achieve this, they rely on the expertise of real estate photographers. While real estate photography may not be as glamorous as other photography specializations, it is a booming business. In fact, becoming a real estate photographer is an excellent way to make a living. And the best part? You don't need any special training or degrees to get started. To help you embark on your real estate photography career, here's a comprehensive guide to real estate photography pricing.
Real Estate Photography Equipment
Your gear is undeniably the most important investment for your business. Unlike other photography genres that involve capturing people or animals, real estate photography primarily focuses on interior and exterior shots of properties. This means you don't necessarily need elaborate equipment like high-fps rates or advanced autofocus capabilities. Many beginner camera models can get the job done efficiently without breaking the bank. For instance, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an excellent budget DSLR camera priced at under $500.
Since you'll be capturing various shots, from sprawling front yards to cramped half-baths, it's essential to have lenses of different lengths in your arsenal. Professional lenses can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, but there are also great budget options available. The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8, for example, is an excellent wide-angle lens perfect for exterior shots or spacious rooms. Priced at just over $300, it's a great choice for beginners. Additionally, investing in a sturdy tripod and a reliable flash is essential. The SLIK Pro 700 DX or the Manfrotto 190X tripods (around $200) and the Yongnuo YN560 IV flash (under $100) are popular options.
As your business grows, you can gradually upgrade your gear to more expensive options. Higher-quality equipment will ultimately translate to higher-quality photos, allowing you to raise your rates!
Factors That Affect Real Estate Photography Pricing
There's no one-size-fits-all fee when it comes to real estate photography. Various factors come into play when determining your pricing. Just like the homes you photograph, location is a significant influencer. If you're based in a major city like Portland or NYC, you'll likely be able to charge higher rates compared to smaller towns. Additionally, if you have to travel a considerable distance to reach a property in a different neighborhood, it's important to factor in your gas expenses as a business cost.
The size of the house is another crucial consideration. Capturing a 10,000-square-foot mansion will undoubtedly take more time than shooting a 650-square-foot studio apartment. Many real estate photographers offer pricing packages based on the square footage of the homes they photograph. Moreover, the number of photos you'll provide to the client is also a significant factor. The more images you deliver, the higher your fee should be.
Add-ons and extra services will also impact your real estate photography pricing. Some photographers offer advanced packages that include drone overviews or 3D walkthroughs. If your clients request edited photos, such as sky replacements or dusk-to-dawn shots, you'll need to factor in the time spent editing in Lightroom and Photoshop. It's crucial to carefully consider all the services you'll offer before setting your official rates. You can even offer a sliding scale, depending on your clients' specific needs.
By considering these factors and providing exceptional service, you can establish yourself as a trusted and sought-after real estate photographer. Remember, as you gain experience and improve your skills, you can adjust your pricing accordingly. So get out there, capture stunning images, and pave your way to a successful career in real estate photography!
Note: The images used in this article are sourced from the original article.