Are you looking to take captivating photos of properties for your real estate business? Selecting the right camera is vital to ensure you capture the essence of each listing. In this article, we will guide you on how to choose the best camera for real estate photography.
Why Your Cell Phone Camera Isn't Enough
Using your cell phone camera may seem tempting and convenient, but it falls short in quality compared to professional cameras. Smartphone cameras lack the settings and options that higher-end cameras offer, resulting in lower-quality images. Additionally, the small sensors in cell phone cameras lead to pixelated and less impressive photos. DSLR cameras, on the other hand, have better sensors for low-light settings and offer complete control over shutter speed.
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Since the quality of your photos significantly impacts sales, it's essential to invest in a proper camera rather than relying on your cell phone. However, if you're temporarily stuck using your smartphone, we have an article on how to take real estate photos with an iPhone.
How to Choose the Best Camera for Real Estate Photography
In today's real estate market, where buyers start their search online, captivating listing photos are crucial. When selecting a camera for real estate photography, consider the following factors:
- Mirrorless and DSLR Cameras: These cameras deliver the sharpest photos.
- HDR Bracketing Capabilities: This feature saves you time and effort in post-processing.
- Video Quality: Look for cameras that offer good video quality for walk-through videos.
- Dynamic Range: Ensure the camera provides flexibility in capturing different shot options.
- Cost vs. Budget: Consider the camera's cost in relation to your budget.
Buyers rely on listing photos to decide whether to visit a property in person. Having the best camera possible is essential to make your listings stand out. Remember, while the camera plays a vital role, having the right tripod and knowing which flash to use for each shot also contribute to excellent photography.
Best Camera for Real Estate Photography - Our Top 4 Picks
Based on the above criteria, we have selected our top 4 picks for the best cameras for real estate photography.
1. Nikon Z7 II
Overview: The Nikon Z7 II is an ideal choice for real estate photography. It offers numerous bracketing settings, excellent image and video quality, and performs well in low-light conditions.
Specifications:
- Sensor: 45.7 Megapixel full-frame
- Bracketing: Up to 9 frames, 1/3, 2/3, 1, 2, and 3 EV
- Video quality: UHD 4K 60p
- Weight: 1.4 pounds (body only)
- Excellent image quality
- 4K video
- Good build and body quality
- Battery life could be better
The Nikon Z7 II is a powerhouse camera, with impressive bracketing options and a base ISO of 64 for stunning light-soaked exteriors.
2. Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Overview: The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is extremely user-friendly and offers broad capabilities, making it one of the best cameras for real estate photography.
Specifications:
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor: APS-C
- Megapixels: 24.1MP
- Lens mount: Canon
- EFISO range: 100 to 25,600 (exp. 51,200)
- Image stabilization: No (in lenses only)
- Weight: 451 g (body only, with battery and SD card)
Reasonably priced, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 provides a lightweight option with a generous ISO range and improved sensor quality compared to smartphones. It offers great value for its price.
3. Nikon D3500
Overview: The Nikon D3500 is an excellent choice for beginners, with helpful guide modes and simplified controls.
Specifications:
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor: APS-C
- Megapixels: 24.2MP
- Lens mount: Nikon
- FISO range: 100 to 25,600
- Image stabilization: No (in lenses only)
- Weighing in at 415 g (body only), it’s an easy camera to work with
Designed to help new users learn, the Nikon D3500 offers guide modes and lightweight body. It's a user-friendly option with various lens choices for beginners.
4. Nikon D850
Overview: The Nikon D850 is an all-around exceptional camera for real estate photography.
Specifications:
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor: Full frame
- Megapixels: 45.7MP
- Lens mount: Nikon
- FISO range: 64 to 25,600 (exp. 32 to 102,400)
- Image stabilization: No (in lenses only)
- At 1,005g (body only, with battery and memory card), it’s a decent camera to work with
The Nikon D850 is a favorite among real estate professionals worldwide. It delivers outstanding image quality with its full-frame sensor, fast auto-focusing, and uncropped 4K video capabilities.
Always Use a Professional Photo Editing Service
To ensure crisp and outstanding real estate photos, professional photo editing is essential. When using one of the best cameras for real estate photography, consider partnering with PhotoUp, the best real estate photo editing service.
Before: Original Photo
After: Real Estate Photo Editing by PhotoUp
PhotoUp's professional editing team can enhance your real estate photos, improving exposure, removing imperfections, and adjusting colors and tones. They offer fast turnaround times and competitive pricing, with most photo editing ranging from $1.10 to $9.00 per image, depending on complexity and subscription.
In addition to photo editing, PhotoUp provides other real estate marketing services, including virtual staging, house tours, property websites, floor plans, and more.
Sign up for a free PhotoUp account to elevate your real estate marketing images. Plus, receive 10 free edits as a bonus.
We hope this article helps you choose the best camera for real estate photography. For more valuable resources, check out our related articles on professional real estate photo editing, the best real estate photo editing companies of 2023, and more.
