By Sean Colón

In today’s competitive Arizona real estate market, where first impressions are increasingly made online, high-quality photography is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. With 90% of home buyers beginning their search online, the photographs you choose to showcase can make or break a listing. As a realtor, knowing which aspects of a home to highlight can significantly increase your chances of securing a quick sale. In this blog, we’ll dive into the most impactful parts of a home to photograph and provide you with a practical shot list that you can use to maximize your property’s appeal.

Why Photography Matters More Than Ever

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes with high-quality photos sell 32% faster than homes with poor-quality images. Furthermore, listings with professional photos can command 47% higher asking prices per square foot compared to those without. In a market like Arizona, where competition is fierce and buyers are discerning, these numbers underscore the importance of strategically capturing a home’s best features.

The Most Impactful Areas to Photograph

To create a compelling listing, it’s crucial to focus on the areas of a home that resonate most with buyers. These areas not only highlight the property’s best features but also tell a story that helps potential buyers imagine themselves living there.

1. Exterior Front Shot

The first image in your gallery should be an exterior front shot. This is the "hero shot" that sets the tone for the entire listing. Ensure that the lawn is mowed, landscaping is tidy, and the home’s exterior is free of debris. A well-lit, straight-on shot of the home’s front can greatly enhance curb appeal, which is a major factor in attracting buyers. Time of day matters here! There are apps I use like Sun Seeker App that show you the direction of light at a specific time of day so you know when to plan your shoot.

2. Living Room

The living room is often the heart of the home and one of the most important spaces for potential buyers. Capture it from multiple angles to showcase the flow of the room, natural light, and any standout features such as a fireplace, large windows, or open floor plan. This space should feel warm and inviting.

3. Kitchen

The kitchen is a major selling point, especially in Arizona where many buyers are looking for modern, updated spaces. Highlight high-end appliances, spacious countertops, and any unique features like an island or breakfast nook. Don’t forget to capture close-ups of fixtures, cabinetry, and the overall layout to give a full picture of the kitchen’s functionality.

4. Master Bedroom

The master bedroom is a sanctuary for many homebuyers, so it’s essential to photograph it in a way that emphasizes relaxation and comfort. Ensure the bed is made, and clutter is removed. Capture the room’s natural light, size, and any features like walk-in closets or en-suite bathrooms.

5. Bathrooms

Bathrooms, particularly the master bath, are key areas of interest. Showcase clean, modern designs with shots that highlight updated fixtures, double vanities, soaking tubs, and spacious showers. Make sure the space is spotless and free from personal items to appeal to buyers’ desire for a fresh, move-in-ready space.

6. Dining Room

The dining room should evoke a sense of family gatherings and entertaining. Capture the room set up with a table and chairs, ideally with some tasteful decor that isn’t too personalized. This space should feel elegant and functional.

7. Outdoor Spaces

In Arizona, outdoor living is just as important as indoor space. Highlight patios, decks, pools, and landscaped yards. Buyers are particularly interested in areas where they can entertain or relax outdoors, so emphasize any features that enhance this lifestyle, such as a built-in BBQ or a fire pit. If there are views of any kind (mountains, desert preserve, golf course) this is often the “hero shot” you may want to use to lead the marketing of this particular listing.

8. Home Office or Bonus Room

With the rise of remote work, home offices and flexible spaces have become increasingly important to buyers. Photograph any additional rooms that could be used as a home office, gym, or guest room. These spaces add value by offering versatility.

Essential Photography Tips

• Lighting: Use natural light whenever possible. Open all curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible. Avoid harsh overhead lights that can create shadows.

• Staging: Stage rooms to show them at their best. Remove clutter, arrange furniture to highlight space and flow, and add simple decor to make the home feel inviting.

• Angles: Shoot from corners to capture more of the room in a single shot. This technique also helps convey the scale of the space.

• Consistency: Maintain consistency in your photography style. Use the same lighting, angles, and color balance throughout the listing to create a cohesive presentation.

Shot List Takeaway

To help streamline your next listing, here’s a handy shot list that you can use:

1. Exterior Front Shot

2. Living Room (wide angle, multiple perspectives)

3. Kitchen (overview, close-ups of appliances and fixtures)

4. Master Bedroom (multiple angles, focus on natural light)

5. Master Bathroom (double vanities, tubs, showers)

6. Additional Bathrooms

7. Dining Room

8. Outdoor Spaces (patios, pools, landscaped yards, VIEWS!)

9. Home Office or Bonus Room

10. Garage (if it has noteworthy features, like extra storage or workspace)

Final Thoughts

In the competitive Arizona real estate market, especially in high-demand areas like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, outstanding photography can make all the difference. By focusing on the most impactful parts of a home and ensuring your photography is top-notch, you’ll not only attract more potential buyers but also sell homes faster and often for a higher price. Implement these tips and use the shot list provided to elevate your listings and set yourself apart as a realtor who understands the power of visual appeal.

For more expert real estate photography services, especially in virtual staging, don’t hesitate to reach out and explore how we can help you showcase your listings in the best possible light.

By the way, I help realtors improve their online and social media presence by providing beautiful photos of their listings. That is why I’ve created this FREE HOME PREP LIST for your clients to help your listings look their best. Feel free to share.