Frequently Asked Questions Affordable Real Estate Photography

Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Real Estate Photography

1. How much does a real estate photographer cost?

Prices vary based on location, experience, and services included. Generally:

• Basic shoot (interior/exterior): AED200 – AED300

• Basic Videography (1 minute): AED300 – AED400
  

• Basic Villa & Townhouse Photography: AED400 – AED600

• Virtual Tour: AED400 – AED500

Tip: Far flung areas tend to be more expensive than rural locations.

2. Can I take real estate photos myself?

Yes, but professional photos typically perform better. If you DIY:
✔ Use a DSLR or high-end smartphone (iPhone Pro, Google Pixel)
✔ Shoot in natural light (avoid harsh shadows)
✔ Edit with Lightroom or free apps (Snapseed, Canva)

For best results, consider hiring a pro for key listings.

3. How do I find a cheap but good real estate photographer?

• Freelance platforms: Fiverr, Upwork, Thumbtack

• Local Facebook groups: Ask for recommendations

• Real estate networks: Agents often share affordable contacts

• Photography students: They may charge less for experience

4. What’s the difference between basic and premium photography?

Choose based on your property’s value and marketing needs.

5. Is virtual staging worth it?

Yes, if:

• The property is empty or outdated

• You want to showcase potential (e.g., “This room could be an office”)

• Staging physically would be too expensive

No, if:

• The home is already well-furnished

• Your market prefers “as-is” listings

Cost: AED100–AED150 per image vs. thousands for physical staging.

6. How many photos do I need for a listing?

Most listings use 20–40 photos, including:

• 5–10 exterior shots

• 2–3 photos per room

• 1–2 aerial/drone images (if applicable)

Tip: More photos = higher engagement, but avoid redundancy.

7. How quickly can I get my photos?

• Standard turnaround: 24–48 hours

• Rush editing: Same day (may cost extra)

• Virtual staging: 1–3 days

Always confirm deadlines before booking.

8. What if I’m not happy with the photos?

• Check the photographer’s revision policy (many offer 1–2 free edits)

• Provide specific feedback (e.g., “The bedroom looks too dark”)

• If quality is poor, ask for a reshoot or partial refund

9. Should I hire a photographer for rental properties?

Yes! High-quality photos:

• Attract better tenants

• Reduce vacancy time

• Justify higher rent prices

Budget tip: Use the same photographer for multiple units to negotiate a discount.

10. Can I reuse photos for future listings?

• Yes, if the property looks the same.

• No, if renovations or seasonal changes (e.g., snow vs. summer grass) affect accuracy.

Some photographers charge extra for unlimited usage rights—check before hiring.

Final Advice

Prioritize quality—cheap photos can cost you in slower sales or lower offers.
Compare portfolios before hiring.
Ask for discounts on bulk shoots or repeat business.