Learn how to find real estate photography jobs, attract clients, and succeed in the competitive field with expert tips and strategies.
If ever it clicked in your mind that it might just be great to combine a love for photography with one for real estate, then you are not alone. Real estate photography is one of the most active niches where creative professionals shoot the most awesome homes, commercial spaces, and breathtaking interior shots. But how does one secure real estate photography jobs, and what does it take to successfully shoot for the real estate photography industry?
Below, I will guide you through everything, from finding jobs to building a career, and will pepper in personal stories and tips from my journey so it is relatable and actionable.
Table of Contents
Why Real Estate Photography?
Let me begin with: real estate photography wasn’t considered at first. Like many up-and-coming photographers, I immediately thought of weddings, portraits, or even fashion photography. But one day, a friend involved in real estate approached me to shoot a listing for them, and the idea sounded harmless enough: photograph homes and interiors, simple, straightforward. I would very quickly learn that this is an art unto itself and is quickly becoming a sought-after specialism.
Real estate agents and property managers want their listings to stand out with high-quality images. Competition has grown more intense with the likes of Zillow, Redfin, and Airbnb to catch a buyer’s attention. And that is where you can come in, the skilled photographer-to help them sell or rent out faster.
Step 1: Create Your Portfolio
If you’re just starting, the first step in landing real estate photography jobs is to create a portfolio showcasing your skills. A portfolio is your visual resume; it’s how you prove to prospective clients that you’re up for the job.
What to include in a portfolio?
How to Build It If You’re Starting
What I did, sans any real estate portfolio to my name, was to offer to shoot properties for free. Yep, free. I reached out to Realtors in my area and said something like, “Hey, I’m building my portfolio, and I’d love to photograph one of your listings in exchange for using the images.” Most were more than happy to get free photos, and it gave me the experience that I needed. In just a few months, I had a good solid portfolio to show future clients.
Step 2: Acquire Proper Equipment
I get it, it can be intimidating, especially for a starter who wants to invest in such gear. Well, been there! But having the right tools really does make a difference in the photos, if you ask me.
Real Estate Photography: Essential Equipment
Pro Tip: Start Small
I couldn’t afford the best equipment when I first started. I did the best with what I had and upgraded as I made more money. The thing is, your skills are what matters; the gear helps, but talent and technique are more important.
Step 3: Learn to shoot the best real estate photos
Real estate photography involves more than just pointing a camera and clicking. Shooting real estate takes a bit more, keeping in mind that there is art, a technique involved, which, if you want to stand out, you really have to master.
Key Techniques to Learn
I remember when I started off doing hours of YouTube tutorials, and then practicing in my home. I would photograph my living room from every different angle, play around with lighting setups, and edit them to perfection. That is a great way to hone your craft before you actually start working with clients.
Step 4: Get Jobs in Real Estate Photography
Now the big question comes in where to find work. Fortunately, there are a couple of ways in which you can get yourself going.
1. Networking with Real Estate Agents
This is how I got my first paying gigs. Real estate agents are your best clients, as they will always want great photos for their listings. Reach out to agents in your area and offer them your services. Go out to local networking events, or join local Facebook groups for real estate professionals.
2. Freelancing on freelancing platforms
Websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and Thumbtack are just some of the best places to find freelance opportunities for photographers. Create your account, showcase your portfolio of work, and get to bidding your way through your real estate photography jobs.
3. Check out job boards
Jobs regarding being a real estate photographer do pop up now and again on websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Terms to consider using when searching would include “real estate photographer,” “real estate photography jobs,” or even “property photographer.”.
4. Partner with Real Estate Photography Companies
Some firms offer real estate photography services and sub-contract the works to freelance professionals. Among such:
5. Leverage Social Media
Social media, your secret weapon, right? I have picked up at least a fair number of gigs through posting my work on Instagram and tagging agents in them, or hell, even just using the #realestatephotography tag. Even TikTok is one avenue for showing your stuff.
Step 5: Set Your Rates
It might get a little tricky if you are new because you will not want to undersell, but at the same time, it needs to be competitive enough. This is how I kind of tackled it:
Things to Consider
General Pricing Guidelines
Don’t be afraid to raise your rates as you gain experience. Your time and expertise are worth it!
Step 6: Learn and Grow
The world of real estate photography is constantly changing. Virtual tours, drone photography, and 3D imaging are also becoming quite popular. You may want to consider expanding your skill set to stay competitive.
Learn Drone Photography
The way that real estate photography could be approached has really shifted with the arrival of drones-be it over vast tracts of property or single-family homes with scenic views. So, invest in a decent drone-for instance, a DJI Mini 3 Pro-and also get licensed. If in the United States, grab your FAA Part 107 license.
Offer Virtual Tours
Virtual tours are in high demand, especially after the pandemic. With platforms such as Matterport, it is pretty simple to make 3D walkthroughs of a property.
My Real Estate Photography Journey
Let me wrap this up with a quick story: One of my favorite gigs was photographing a luxury home perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The agent wanted aerial shots, interior photos, and a twilight exterior shot with the sunset in the background. It was challenging but exhilarating. The images turned out beautifully, and the home sold within days.
The agent was overjoyed, and I won, besides an exceptional testimonial, the confidence in taking up bigger projects.
That’s the beauty with real estate photography; it is not just about shooting homes, per se, but telling a story, showcasing the best features a home may have to offer, and helping people find their dream spaces.
FAQs
1. What qualifications or skills do I need to become a real estate photographer?
Formal qualifications are not required, but rather very strong skills in photography, post-processing, and software such as Lightroom or Photoshop. Compositions, lighting, and usage of wide-angle lenses must be included. Build a strong portfolio to showcase your work.
2. How much can I earn as a real estate photographer?
Rates will depend on experience and location. Beginners will take in $100-$200 per property, whereas established photographers get from $200-$500 and the high-end shoot is way above $500. Annual pay for a starting photographer will range from $ 30,000 while an established pro can rake in over $ 70,000 per annum.
3. Where can I find real estate photography jobs?
Real estate photography jobs can be found through various channels:
4. What equipment do I need for real estate photography?
To get started in real estate photography, you’ll need the following equipment:
Practice technique and invest in better equipment as you become more confident.
Final Thoughts
Landing real estate photography jobs takes time, effort, and persistence, but the rewards are worth it. Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your career to the next level, focus on building your skills, creating a standout portfolio, and networking like crazy.
Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. When I first started, I had no idea I’d be photographing luxury homes and working with top agents. But with hard work and a genuine passion for what I do, I’ve built a career I love—and you can too. So grab your camera, start shooting, and go after those opportunities. You’ve got this!
Additional Resources
If you’re serious about pursuing real estate photography jobs, here are some resources to help you on your journey:
