Are you looking for the best cameras for real estate photography? There’s a lot of money to be made as a real estate photographer. Whether you’re updating your portfolio or partnering with your local real estate agent, investing in quality gear will ensure stunning shots every time and really help take your photos up a notch.
In this guide, we’ll list our recommendations for the top 12 cameras for real estate photography to help you shoot stunning property photos. Let’s jump straight in!
Best Cameras for Real Estate Photography (Top 12 Picks)
To help you find a solid workhorse camera that will help you take top-notch quality pictures and video, check out our list of top 12 cameras for real estate photography. Whatever camera you choose from this list will help you produce captivating images.
1. Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Image Source: Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Overview: Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is our #1 recommendation for the best camera for real estate photography. This camera is not only user-friendly but also highly capable.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Sensor: APS-C
- Megapixels: 24.1
- Video: 4K Recording Capability
- Lens Mount: Canon EF
- ISO Range: 100 to 25,600 (exp. 51,200)
- Weight: 2.17 lbs - Lightest, Smallest EOS DSLR Camera
- Built-In Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- DIGIC 8 Image Processor to Help Produce High Image Quality
- Fast and Accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF With Eye Detection AF
With many useful features and at a reasonable price, the Canon Rebel SL3 is an excellent choice of DSLR for real estate photography. The varied-angle touchscreen allows you to get images from all sorts of different angles. Plus, the generous ISO range and APS-C sensor make a significant improvement from any smartphone. And with great lens choices available, you can create a highly effective setup for all forms of real estate photography.
Price: $749
2. Nikon D3500
Image Source: Nikon D3500
Overview: Nikon D3500 is the best real estate camera for beginners, with helpful guide modes and simplified controls.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Sensor: APS-C
- Megapixels: 24.2
- Video: 1080p
- ISO Range: 100 to 25,600
- Weight: 7.23 ounces
- Easy, Lightweight, and Portable Camera
- Built-In Bluetooth
The Nikon D3500 is designed specifically to help new users learn its functions, with helpful guide modes and simplified controls. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and with Nikon’s wide F-mount lens selection, you have plenty of compatible lenses to choose from. While the standard lens does a great job, there are other lens choices available that can further enhance your real estate images.
Price: $1,469.95
3. Nikon D850
Image Source: Nikon D850
Overview: Nikon D850 is the best professional camera for real estate photography.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Sensor: Full Frame (35mm) CMOS
- Megapixels: 45.7
- Video: 1080p
- ISO Range: 64 to 25,600 (exp. 32 to 102,400)
- Weight: 2.02 lbs
- Easy, Lightweight, and Portable Camera
- Auto Mode Delivers Amazing Results
- Nikon’s Renowned Expeed Image Processing System for Colors That Pop in Any Light
If you’re looking for outstanding, professional-quality real estate photography, then the full-frame DSLR Nikon D850 is perfect for you. This camera produces astonishing image quality thanks to its full-frame sensor and comes complete with auto-focusing speed and megapixels that meet the expectations of a top-tier device. Plus, it features uncropped 4K video, allowing you to create amazing footage for video tours of your properties.
Price: $2,796.95
4. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Image Source: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Overview: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a powerful workhorse camera producing excellent image quality.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Sensor: Full Frame (35mm) CMOS
- Megapixels: 30.4
- Video: Cinema-quality (DCI) 4K Video
- Weight: 15.16 lbs
- Quality Sensor Produces Detailed and Vibrant Images Even at High ISOs
- Dual Pixel AF With Eye Detection
- User-Friendly Touch-to-Focus Screen
- Good Battery Life - 900-Shot Battery Life
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV boasts a 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6+ image processor, making it an invaluable tool for real estate photography. Its extended ISO range and powerful AF system allow you to capture stunning still shots in any lighting situation imaginable. Additionally, it features a user-friendly touch-to-focus screen and offers good battery life to keep you shooting for longer.
Price: $3,129.95
5. Sony A7R III
Image Source: Sony A7R III
Overview: Sony A7R III is a lightweight camera with impressive image quality, battery life, face recognition, and color rendition.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: Full Frame (35mm) CMOS
- Megapixels: 42.4
- Video: FHD 1080p
- Weight: 1.40 lbs
- Quick and Accurate 693-Point AF
- Wide ISO Range With a Low 50 Setting
- Outstanding Dynamic Range and Low-Light Performance
- Records Stunning 4K Video and Has Live Stream Capabilities
- Swivel Touchscreen Display With Touchpad Mode
The Sony A7R III offers unparalleled performance and reliability. Its 24.2MP full-frame sensor allows you to capture incredible detail and brilliance in every shot. With fast AF speed and a wide ISO range, you can get detailed and impressive photos in any lighting situation. This lightweight camera is perfect for real estate photography, especially with its 4K video and live stream capabilities.
Price: $3,498
6. Sony α7R IV
Image Source: Sony α7R IV
Overview: The Sony A7 IV is the perfect choice for capturing everything from stunning stills to breathtaking videos.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: Full Frame (35mm) CMOS
- Megapixels: 26.2
- Video: AVCHD 1080p
- Lens: Auto Focus
- Decent Battery, Capable of Lasting Up to 670 Shots
- Environmentally Sealed Body, Offering the Highest Levels of Weather Protection
- Dual SD Card Slot to Keep Memory Issues Out
- And Amazing Color Rendering
The Sony A7 IV offers exceptional performance and reliability with its powerful 33MP sensor and Bionz XR processor. It delivers top-level performance with an AF system that’s second to none. With its 4K video capability and live streaming features, this camera is perfect for hybrid photographers who want professional-level results on every project.
Price: $2,198.00
7. Fujifilm X-T3
Image Source: Fujifilm X-T3
Overview: The Fujifilm X-T3 is turning heads with its unbeatable build quality and vivid color rendition, particularly in low-light conditions.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS
- Video: MPEG-4 2160p
- Megapixels: 26.1
- Weight: 2.16m-Point Phase-Detection Autofocus
- Perfect Weather Protection
- Excellent Build Quality
- Built-In RAW File Processing
- Impressive Video Recording
- Dual SD Card Slots
The Fujifilm X-T3 offers exceptional build quality and vivid color rendition, making it a great choice for real estate photography. Its 26.1MP sensor and autofocus capabilities ensure stunning image quality, while the dual SD card slots and weather protection provide added convenience and durability.
Price: $2,198.00
8. Canon EOS 250D
Image Source: Canon EOS 250D
Overview: Whether you’re a passionate hobbyist or an aspiring real estate photographer, the Canon EOS 250D is worth considering, especially if you're on a budget.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Sensor: APS-C CMOS
- Megapixels: 24.1
- Video: 4K UHD 1080p
- Weight: 15.8 lbs
- Optical Zoom
- Awesome Live View Shooting
- User-Friendly Camera
- Fully Articulating, Touch Screen
- Tons of Accessories Available
The Canon EOS 250D is a lightweight and easy-to-hold camera that captures perfect exterior shots or detailed interior photos. It offers automated scene modes and great picture quality, making it suitable for outdoor portrait shoots. With its user-friendly features and compatibility with a wide range of accessories, this DSLR holds up well against other models on the market.
Price: $879
9. Canon EOS R
Image Source: Canon EOS R
Overview: The Canon EOS R is the ultimate lightweight real estate photography companion with built-in Wi-Fi.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: Full Frame (35mm) CMOS
- Megapixels: 30.3
- Video: 2160p
- Optical Zoom
- Weight: 1.46 lbs
- Built-In Wi-Fi
- Decent Battery Life
- Exceptional Flip-Out LCD
- Great Control Personalization
- Fast RAW Image Processing
The Canon EOS R is a lightweight and compact mirrorless camera that offers exceptional performance. Its full-frame sensor and advanced features allow you to capture beautiful images with incredible precision. Additionally, the built-in Wi-Fi and customizable controls make it a versatile and user-friendly option for real estate photography.
Price: $1699
10. Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Image Source: Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Overview: If you’re a semi-pro or an enthusiastic hobbyist looking to capture beautiful real estate scenes, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is your go-to camera.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Sensor: Full-Frame (35mm)
- Megapixels: 26.2
- Video: 2160p
- Weight: 6.86 lbs
- Standard SD Card Slot
- Wide Range of Shutter Speed Controllers
- Optical Viewfinder to Shoot With Perfection
- Excellent Battery Life
- A Decent Connectivity Suite
- An Adequate Set of On-Device Controllers
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a great choice for capturing beautiful real estate scenes. Its 26.2MP full-frame sensor and powerful DIGIC 7 processor allow you to capture amazing low light photos with ease. The camera's LCD panel ensures that no detail is left out of the shot, and the wide range of shutter speed controllers gives you full control over your images. With excellent battery life and a decent connectivity suite, this camera is perfect for both amateur and professional photographers.
Price: $2054.95
11. Leica TL2
Image Source: Leica TL2
Overview: The Leica TL2 is the perfect partner in crime to help you take amazing real estate photos.
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: Digital APS-C System
- Sensor: 24MP APS-C CMOS
- Megapixels: 24
- Video: 1080p, 4K Max Video Resolution
- Weight: 6.15 lbs
- Image Stabilization
- Expanded ISO Range of 100-50,000
- Convenient Touch Screen
- Face Detection Focusing
- 49 Focus Points
The Leica TL2 offers advanced features and exceptional image quality. It excels in low-light conditions and provides a wide ISO range to capture stunning photos in any lighting situation. With its convenient touch screen and face detection focusing, this camera is perfect for capturing every detail of your real estate listings.
Price: $2,444.95
12. Nikon Z7
Image Source: Nikon Z7
Overview: The Nikon Z7 model is described as a photographer’s dream come true!
SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: Full Frame APS-C
- Megapixels: 45.7
- Video: 2160p
- Optical Zoom: 1x
- Weight: 6.66 lbs
- Great Weather Protection
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
- Excellent Image Quality at High ISO
- Top-Notch Electronic Viewfinder
The Nikon Z7 boasts an impressive 45.7 MP CMOS backlit sensor and ISO range that allow you to capture beautiful images with incredible performance. With its customizable functions and responsive shooting touch screen, you can capture every shot exactly as you imagine it. This full-frame mirrorless camera is perfect for real estate photography.
Price: $3,484.95
How to Choose the Right Camera (4 Main Tips)
If you’re looking to make your property shine, the right real estate camera and lens can help get you there. Whether it’s for selling your own home or generating professional listing images for real estate agents, having a dedicated device will let you capture shots with better accuracy and more flattering angles than what smartphones are capable of.
In today’s real estate sales market, the quality of the photos matters more than ever. More than 90% of buyers begin their home search online, and high-quality listing photographs give them the confidence to take a deeper, longer look at the property. Therefore, having the right camera — one that produces stunning results — is a necessity for real estate photography.
In general, DSLR cameras are the favored choice for real estate photography. These cameras allow the photographer the greatest flexibility, ease of use, and settings options. DSLR cameras produce accurate shots that help potential buyers see the full layout of a home, thereby getting a better feel and sense of the property.
Mirrorless cameras are also good options and offer several advantages like smaller sizes, faster shooting speed, and better video capabilities. However, they also have some disadvantages, such as shorter battery life, limited lens selection, and higher price points.
Whether you choose a DSLR or mirrorless, you’ll want the camera that helps your property look its best and allows you to capture images of the property in a way that’s flattering and enticing.
1. Know the Difference Between DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
DSLR and mirrorless cameras are considered to be the most universal, as they have both low-cost and professional models. Recent studies have shown that 63% of professional photographers use a mirrorless camera, while 36% of them use a DSLR camera. This is largely because the mirrorless camera is more lightweight and easier to carry around.
However, when it comes to real estate photography, professional photographers tend to choose DSLR cameras for their superior lens selection. But what’s the difference between the two?
If you’re wondering what sets DSLR and mirrorless cameras apart, DSLR uses a traditional mirror-and-prism system that sends light from the lens directly into an optical viewfinder. A modern mirrorless camera, on the other hand, uses digital sensors to capture light as well as sends live previews of each image straight onto its electronic viewfinder or rear LCD screen - perfect for quickly previewing shots without delay.
2. Avoid Using Your Smartphone
Many newbie real estate photographers and agents will almost instinctively use their smartphone cameras to capture their real estate images. In a way, this makes sense because it’s the camera they carry with them most often.
But we urge you to think twice before using your cell phone camera for your real estate photography. Why? Consider this:
- While it’s true that many modern smartphones are equipped with fantastic camera arrays, they still don’t capture the crisp, captivating photos a DSLR camera can.
- Most cell phone cameras lack the filters and settings the higher-end cameras have — and these matter for the quality of the photos.
However, if you are set on using a smartphone, try to add dedicated lens enhancers and motorized mounts that allow smartphones to capture better images and 3D virtual tours.
3. Understand the Importance of Matrix Size
If you’re looking for the best camera to capture stunning real estate photography, then having a larger sensor is key. It ensures greater sensitivity and less noise in your images. Typically, you can find 3 main lenses, including:
- 1 inch (or smaller): Generally used in inexpensive compact cameras
- APS-C: Highly-developed mirrorless and DSLRs contain this type
- Full Frame: Also used in both mirrorless and DSLRs
Overall, full-frame cameras or APS-C sensors are a top pick for professional photographers due to their advanced APS-C sensors. But these cameras don’t come cheap, and you’ll need to spend quite a lot on the lens. On the other hand, if budget isn’t an issue, then this is your go-to choice!
4. Consider the Ergonomics
Taking the perfect shot requires more than just setting up your tripod and pressing the shutter. It starts with finding the right camera that is lightweight and easy enough to bring with you to each shoot.
For example, large weight and awkward grip may cause more problems than you bargained for. Make sure to get a hands-on feel by testing out multiple models and seeing which one fits best in yours.
You’re likely looking for something lightweight that won’t drag you down while you hike, bike, or explore your subjects, so keep an eye on portability. We also recommend considering how easy-to-find main functions are. Everything should be simple and straightforward.
Finally, touchscreens can be tricky if their menus aren’t user-friendly, so give different ones a try before committing to any purchase decisions.
FAQ - Best Cameras for Real Estate Photography
Q: Do you need a full-frame camera for real estate photography?
A: You should use a full-frame camera if you typically need to print images at large sizes to ensure the highest resolution even when you crop. It’s also best to use a full frame if you’re generally shooting in low-light environments and broad spaces, including landscape, nature, and real estate photography.
Q: Mirrorless vs DSLR - which is better?
A: Mirrorless cameras offer a lot of great features - they’re sleek, fast, and take stunning quality video. The downside is a poor choice of lenses and accessories for these cameras. DSLRs come out ahead in terms of their optical viewfinders, larger lens options, and extended battery life, giving them an edge when it comes to real estate photography.
Q: Are mirrorless cameras suitable for professional needs?
A: Yes. Mirrorless models are very popular among many professional photographers, including real estate, travel, and landscape photographers.
Q: Is buying a DSLR camera for real estate photography a good decision?
A: Yes. DSLR cameras are suitable for real estate photography because they have a superior lens selection. These cameras also allow the photographer the greatest flexibility, ease of use, and settings options. However, you should consider other options if photographing is just a hobby.
Q: What’s more important: the camera or the lens?
A: Choosing a lens over a camera can make all the difference when it comes to real estate photography. Even if you opt for an entry-level DSLR, using quality lenses will help ensure your shots turn out just right!
Q: What speed and performance should a camera have?
A: Opt for a camera with a minimum speed of 5 fps (frames per second). Ten or more frames per second might be nice but can often come at an unnecessary cost. Always consider your needs first when shopping around for the perfect camera.
Q: Do megapixels matter for real estate photography?
A: Yes! Your camera needs to have a minimum of 18 megapixels. Anything less will not produce high enough quality for your print marketing.
Q: Why should you avoid taking real estate photos with your smartphone?
A: Smartphones are getting better and better, but they still don’t capture the crisp, captivating photos a DSLR or mirrorless camera can. Their “zooms” are also cropping photos, making them grainy and pixelated.
Q: What focal length is best for real estate photography?
A: As a general rule for focal length, anything between 12mm and 35mm will provide good photos. If you can, opt for a lens in the 22-24mm range, which provides an even balance of foreground and background in your photos.
Q: How high should the camera be for real estate photography?
A: The ideal height for real estate photography is about 5 feet. Each home is different, but this height looks most natural and feels most balanced.
Leverage Professional Real Estate Photo Editing!
Whether you shoot real estate using a DSLR, mirrorless, or smartphone camera, your photos need to be professionally edited to capture potential buyers’ attention. In a competitive market, your photography must be of top-notch quality to stand out from the competition.
PhotoUp offers expert photo editing services for real estate photographers. Our skilled photo editors can enhance your photos to ensure they look their best. From improper exposure levels to harsh shadows, we can make the necessary edits to transform your photos. We can also offer additional services like virtual staging, home walk-through videos, and custom websites.
With PhotoUp's user-friendly photo management system, you can easily upload and receive photos, send instructions and feedback, track and manage team members and clients, and store final images. Plus, for a limited time, when you sign up for a PhotoUp account, you'll receive 10 free edits.
Sign up for a free PhotoUp account today and let our expert editors enhance your real estate photos to perfection!
