Module 3
Shooting Method
The technical core: gear, camera settings, the shot list, composition, bracketing and how a shoot actually runs.
13 lessons · 128 minutes
These lessons were recorded in 2023 and reviewed in 2026. The method holds up; specific gear, prices and software menus have moved on since. Where a lesson names a camera body or a price, treat it as an example rather than a current recommendation.
- Introduction — Shooting MethodAn overview of everything you'll learn about shooting real estate photos professionally.1 min
Read the transcript
Transcript of the recorded lesson. Recorded 2023, reviewed 2026.
Guys, welcome to the shooting methods section of the ultimate photographer formula. In this section we're going to go over everything you need to know in order to successfully shoot real estate photography. We're going to go over the equipment, the settings, composition tips, the shot list, and how to prep a home. We'll also take you on some job shadows so that you can experience first hand what it's like to be a real estate photographer. We're going to be focusing on HDR photography in this section, which is what we recommend for beginner real estate photographers. Now even as a seasoned real estate photographer, I still shoot HDR photography for many of the
homes that we shoot. So don't think HDR photography is for beginners only. I'm excited to share our shooting method with you. Let's get started.
- The EquipmentExactly what gear you need (and don't need) to start shooting RE photos professionally.3 min
- Aperture, ISO & Shutter SpeedUnderstanding the exposure triangle and how it applies to real estate photography.6 min
- Camera SettingsThe exact camera settings we use for every real estate photo shoot.6 min
- 5 Composition Tips for Real Estate PhotographyComposition techniques that make listings look their absolute best.3 min
- Shot ListThe standard shot list we follow for every property to ensure consistent, complete coverage.5 min
- 6 Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid ThemThe most common mistakes new RE photographers make — and how to avoid every one of them.3 min
- How to Prep a HomeWhat to do when you arrive at a property — preparing rooms for the best possible photos.2 min
Read the transcript
Transcript of the recorded lesson. Recorded 2023, reviewed 2026.
In this video we're going to go over how to prepare a home for real estate photography. When you first arrive at the property, be sure to introduce yourself to the homeowner or agent. During this time you can leave your camera in your vehicle and focus on getting the home photo ready by doing a quick walkthrough of the home. Getting the home ready before you start shooting will allow you to focus on capturing excellent photos instead of having to stop the creative process to fix up a room. Make sure all the lights are turned on, all ceiling fans are turned off, all blinds are open and all toilet seats are down.
These small things can really spice up the photos and showcase the home better. Minor things like kitchen trash cans or dog bowls should be hidden away as well. Now let's move to the backyard. If there is a pool in the backyard be sure to ask the homeowner or agent if they can turn on any features it may have. This can be anything from water fountains, pool lights, fire pits and any other features that will help sell the home. Now if the home is a complete mess don't worry about moving things or preparing the home. Sometimes you will run into these types of homes especially when tenant occupied and
it is best just to shoot the property as is. In most cases the home should be ready for photos before you even arrive at the property. You can send out an email including a detailed checklist and short video to your clients beforehand. This not only makes you seem more professional but also helps agents and homeowners know how to prepare the home and what to expect during the photoshoot. Our clients appreciate this and we encourage you to create a video explaining how to get the home photo ready as well. If you guys have any additional questions feel free to reach out. We'll see you guys on the next one.
- What Makes a Photogenic ListingUnderstanding what makes a property photograph well and how to work with what you've got.3 min
- Photo Shoot 1 — Two-Story Renovated HomeWatch a complete real estate photo shoot from start to finish at a renovated two-story property.39 min
- Photo Shoot 2 — Large Vacant HomeWatch a complete shoot at a large vacant property and learn how to handle empty rooms.31 min
- Photo Shoot 3 — Beautiful Inside, Ugly OutsideShooting a property with a great interior but challenging exterior — techniques for making the best of it.25 min
- Summary — Shooting MethodKey takeaways and action items from the shooting method module.1 min
Read the transcript
Transcript of the recorded lesson. Recorded 2023, reviewed 2026.
Guys so in this section we went over all the aspects of the shooting method for HDR real estate photography Shooting with the method that I shared in this section is highly recommended, especially if you're just starting out I don't recommend adding additional variables like lighting until you master the basics of real estate photography Now your homework for this section of the course is to shoot your own home or a friend or family members home to practice Once you do that upload your photos to a cloud service and email the link to us at Feedback at realestatemediacourses.com and we'll give you some feedback on your photos
Now before you start charging for real estate photography services We recommend getting some practice on three to five properties So that you can get a real good handle on real estate photography That's gonna do it for this one reach out if you have any questions. We'll see you guys on the next one