How to take great rental property photographs

Excellent photography can catch a potential tenant’s eye and set your property apart from competitors. It is an essential part of marketing your property and ensuring that you attract the perfect tenants. So, grab your camera and pay attention to our tips on how to take great rental property photographs!

Why you should take great rental property photographs

First of all, let’s take a look at why taking the perfect set of photographs for your rental property is important and how this will benefit your property portfolio. The first time potential tenants will see your property will most likely be through images on a property portal. 

Good photographs not only grab attention but can also significantly influence a prospective tenant’s decision-making process. Here’s why you should invest in the perfect photographs of your rental property. 

First impressions matter

In the competitive rental market, you have just a few seconds to capture the interest of potential tenants as they scroll through listings. Well-composed, bright, and attractive photos can make your property stand out, prompting more inquiries and viewings. 

So, make sure that you are happy with how potential tenants will first see your rental property – you may need to redecorate your property before taking photographs. 

This initial attraction can be the deciding factor between a prospective tenant choosing to explore your listing further or moving on to another.

Highlight the best features

Quality photographs allow you to showcase the best aspects of your property. Whether it’s spacious rooms, modern amenities, or a beautiful location, good photographs highlight these features in the most flattering way. 

This visual appeal is often what sells the lifestyle your property offers, not just the building itself.

Speeds up the rental process

Properties with compelling photographs tend to attract more interest, which can lead to quicker rentals. By drawing in a larger pool of potential tenants, you increase the likelihood of renting out your property swiftly, reducing the time it sits empty and maximising your rental income.

Builds credibility and trust 

Professional-looking photographs reflect a professional management approach. High-quality images suggest that you take care of your property and are likely to be responsive and thorough as a landlord. This can build trust with potential renters, so they may feel more confident in entering into a lease agreement with you.

Effective online and offline marketing

While online listings are a primary tool for attracting renters, high-quality photographs are also essential for other marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and social media posts. These photographs serve as a versatile marketing asset that enhances your property’s appeal across various platforms.

Realistic expectations

Good photographs provide a realistic and accurate view of what potential tenants can expect. This transparency helps in attracting genuinely interested parties and can reduce the rate of no-shows and last-minute cancellations. When tenants know what to expect before they see the property in person, they’re more likely to be pleased rather than disappointed during viewings.

In essence, investing in quality photography for your rental property is investing in your property’s marketability and appeal. It’s not just about making the space look good in pictures but also about conveying a sense of professionalism and pride in ownership that resonates with potential tenants.

Tips on how to take great rental property photographs

So, how do you make sure that the photographs you take attract more viewings and potential tenants? We have compiled a list of steps to take when creating a portfolio of photographs to attract the right tenants for you.  

Gear up

You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take great images, but using the right equipment can help. 

A decent camera is a good start – DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are great, but many smartphones now come equipped with advanced camera features that can also do the trick. Consider a tripod for stability, especially in low light conditions, to avoid blurry images.

Lighting

Good lighting is everything in photography. Aim to take your photographs during the day when natural light is best. 

Open all curtains and blinds to brighten up the space. Turn on all interior lights to eliminate shadows and ensure the rooms are evenly lit. The best times are usually in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and most flattering.

Declutter and clean

Before you start snapping pictures, make sure the property is tidy and attractive. Clear away any personal items, clutter, or unnecessary furniture. A clean and decluttered space not only looks bigger but is also more inviting. Don’t forget to remove any distracting items like fridge magnets or too many personal photographs. Less is more. 

Plan your shots and pick the right angle

Walk through the property and plan out the best angles and compositions for each room. Try to capture the essence of the space. A top tip for this is to take the picture from waist level as this will capture the most accurate angle of each room. 

Use wide-angle shots to show off the size of the rooms but avoid going too wide – distortion can make the spaces look unnatural. Ensure each photograph has a clear focus, whether it’s the cosy bedroom or the spacious kitchen.

Focus on the best features

Does your property have a stunning fireplace, a lush garden, or perhaps a charming vintage bathroom? Make sure these features are prominently featured in your photographs. Highlighting unique attributes can attract more attention and help your listing stand out.

Keep it natural

While it’s important to show your property in its best light, keep the editing natural. Avoid over-saturating colours or using too much contrast. Photos should be bright, clear, and true to what the property actually looks like. This honesty will build trust with potential tenants at first glance.

Consistency is key

Ensure your photographs have a consistent look and feel. This includes using the same filters or settings if you’re editing them. Consistency in how you present your property will give your listing a professional appearance and make it more appealing.

Don’t forget the exterior

The outside of your property is just as important as the inside. Take photographs of the building’s façade, the garden, or any communal areas. If you have parking facilities or a garage, include those too. This will help potential renters gauge the neighbourhood and the home’s curb appeal.

Upload high-quality images

When it’s time to upload your photographs to a listing site, make sure they are high-resolution. Low-quality, pixelated images can turn off potential tenants. Most platforms specify ideal dimensions and file sizes, so check these before you upload.

Review and adjust

Finally, take a moment to review your photographs. Check if they accurately represent the property and if they could be improved. Sometimes, a small reshoot can make a big difference.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to showcase your rental property in the best possible light, making it a hot contender in the bustling rental market. Happy photographing, and here’s to a swift and successful rental process!

If you need more information on buy-to-let insurance, make sure to get in touch with our team of experts at CIA Landlords!