When it comes to selling a house, first impressions are crucial. One of the most important ways to make a great first impression is with high-quality real estate photos. While there are plenty of cameras out there that can get the job done, when it comes to showcasing a full room, a wide angle camera is the way to go.
In this post, we’ll explore the world of real estate photography and take a deep dive into the best cameras for capturing wide angle shots. Whether you’re a real estate agent looking to sell a client’s home or a homeowner looking to showcase your property on Airbnb, we’ve got you covered.
From specialised SLR cameras to mirrorless and point-and-shoot options, we’ll help you choose the right camera to make your property stand out from the crowd.
After all, when it comes to selling your home, a picture is worth a thousand words (and maybe even a few extra dollars in your pocket).
Key Takeaways
- A larger sensor size can take in more light, resulting in higher quality images.
- Full frame sensors are necessary for using specialized lenses, such as wide angle lenses, for real estate photography.
- Being able to swap lenses is convenient and allows for more versatility in photography.
- Good lenses can significantly impact the outcome of photographs, including video quality.
- The Nikon D750 is a budget-friendly option with a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor and automatic light metering.
- The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a top-of-the-line dSLR camera with a full frame sensor, 30.4 megapixel resolution, 4K video capabilities, and WiFi syncing.
- The Sony a7 III Full-Frame is a mirrorless camera with in-body stabilization technology, making it a strong competitor to dSLR cameras.
- The Nikon D850 is a great option thanks to its advanced sensor and ability to shoot 4K video.
- The Pentax K-1 offers an excellent autofocus system and a wide ISO range.
- The Canon 6D Mark II is a budget-friendly option that can still produce high-quality images and video.
- The Canon 1D X Mark II is one of the best DSLR cameras on the market, but it comes with a hefty price tag.
- Using a tripod is highly recommended for real estate photography.
- Dynamic range and low-light performance are important factors to consider when choosing a camera for real estate photography.
- WiFi connectivity can be useful for quickly transferring photos to a computer or mobile device.
- Investing in a high-quality lens is just as important as choosing the right camera.
Best Cameras For Real Estate Photography: Buying Guide
Sensor type: full frame or cropped frame?
The sensor your camera is equipped with will make a huge difference in the kinds of photos you’ll be able to take. Generally speaking, a larger sensor can take in more light, so the image will be higher quality.
Additionally, some specialized lenses are only compatible with full frame sensors, so if you want to take proper wide angle photos, you’ll need a full frame sensor to use a wide angle lens.
The lens you use will have a direct effect on the outcome of your photographs, and using good lenses will enable to you take your photographs to the next level. You can also use specialized lenses to progress from real estate photography to landscape photography.
Landscape photography of course can add a whole new level of depth to your real estate listings!
Switchable lenses
As we mentioned at the beginning of the post, you can use point and shoot cameras, but we really advise against it. Having the ability to swap lenses is almost like getting an entirely new camera by just switching out a single component.
Whether you want a telephoto lens, a wide angle lens, or a macro lens, it’s really convenient to be able to use them all with a single camera body rather than having to carry multiple cameras.
Video
Most good SLR cameras have video capability. However, some lenses shoot better video than others. It all depends on how the lens focuses – some lenses focus in jerky motions, where you’ll be able to see and hear the jerks in your video. Other lenses focus smoothly, resulting in cleaner video.
1. Nikon D750
The number one camera on our list is the Nikon D750. It takes the number one spot because it’s budget friendly compared to other similar models, and has a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor, meaning you can easily put a wide angle lens on it.
You’re getting a lot of performance and functionality for the price. You can either use the viewfinder for taking photos or you can use the LED screen that tilts out to a variety of angles. This will help you easily set up your shots for taking photos of real estate properties.
A huge plus point is that the camera automatically meters the light depending on how lit or dark the subject already is. This makes it a lot easier to take photos of indoor areas with bright windows. In other situations, a bright window will darken the rest of the frame.
One drawback(if you’d like to call it that) is that there is no 4K video, though in all honesty, you don’t need 4K for most real estate applications.
- Full frame 243 megapixel CMOS image sensor and expeed 4 image processor
- Full HD 60/50/30/25/24p video
- Built in Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the WT 5a plus UT 1 communication unit
- Shoot up to 65 fps at full resolution frame size (pixels): 1920 x 1080
- Pro video feature set including: Simultaneously record uncompressed and compressed, manually control ISO, shutter speed and aperture while recording even use power aperture control for smooth iris transitions and auto ISO for smooth exposure transitions
2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
The Canon EOS 5D comes at number 2 only because of the higher price range. As far as features go, the EOS 5D Mark IV is a killer dSLR camera.
It sports a full frame sensor and has a resolution of 30.4 megapixels. You can also shoot 4K video.
One really interesting feature is that this camera can take Dual Pixel Raw images. This is a single image with a ridiculous amount of data in it that lets you make really small adjustments to focus after taking the photo. For regular photographs you can also utilize the 61-point autofocus system.
You can also use it to remove and correct for sun flare.
Overall, the 5D Mark IV can take really good low light photographs, too.
Finally, the WiFi feature lets you sync photos from the camera to your phone or computer.
- New 30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor for versatile shooting in nearly any light, with ISO range 100-32000; expandable up to 50-102400 (equivalent ISO).
- 4K Motion JPEG video (DCI cinema-type 4096 x 2160) at 30p or 24p; in- camera still frame grab of 4K 8.8-Megapixel images; multiple video options include Full HD up to 60p, and HD up to 120p.
- Superb Dual Pixel CMOS AF for responsive and smooth AF during video or live view shooting; LCD monitor has a full touchscreen interface, including selection of AF area.
- Excellent performance - up to 7.0 fps continuous shooting speed with high-performance DIGIC 6+ Image Processor for improved speed and excellent image quality.
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
3. Sony a7 III Full-Frame
Number three on the list is a mirrorless camera sporting a full-frame sensor. This camera actually competes head-on with dSLR cameras. The Sony a7 III has two versions – the a7 III and the a7 IIIR. The only difference between the two is the resolution. The a7 III has a 24MP sensor and the a7 IIIR has a 42MP sensor.
The stabilization technology is built into the camera body rather than the lens, which allows for a better result. This is useful for low light photos where the aperture is larger(learn about aperture and f/stop here) and the shutter speed is slower. In these cases, it’s easy for small shakes to be visible in the photo as well.
In-body stabilization will do a better job of minimizing the shakes.
- Advanced 24.2MP BSI full frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed
- 15 stop dynamic range, 14 bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800. Compatible with Sony E mount lenses. Can be connected via Bluetooth with smartphones featuring (as of the date of release)- Android (Android 5.0 or later, Bluetooth 4.0 or later), iOS (Bluetooth 4.0 or later)
- Up to 10fps silent or mechanical shutter with AE/AF tracking. Battery life (Still Images): Approx. 610 shots (Viewfinder) / approx. 710 shots (LCD monitor), battery life (Movie, continuous recording): Approx. 200 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 210 min (LCD monitor)
- 693 phase detection / 425 contrast AF points w/ 93 percent image coverage. Focus sensor: Exmor R CMOS sensor
- In the box: Rechargeable battery (NP FZ100), AC adapter (AC UUD12), shoulder strap, body cap, Accessory shoe cap, Eyepiece cup, Micro USB cable. Metering type: 1200 zone evaluative metering
4. Nikon D850
Sporting a full-frame sensor, the Nikon D850 is an excellent choice for great wide angle real estate photographs. Not only is the sensor full-frame, but it’s a newer iteration in which the far edges of the sensor are better suited to picking up light. This means the edges of the resulting image are much better lit.
You can shoot 4K video and the ISO range starts at just 64, which should be enough to handle even the most brightly lit situations.
WiFi is available but only using Nikon’s proprietary app.
- Nikon designed back side illuminated (BSI) full frame image sensor with no optical low pass filter
- 45.7 megapixels of extraordinary resolution, outstanding dynamic range and virtually no risk of moiré
- Up to 9 fps1 continuous shooting at full resolution with full AF performance
- 8k6 and 4k time lapse movies with new levels of sharpness and detail; file system : DCF 2.0, exif 2.31, Pict bridge
- Tilting touchscreen, focus shift shooting mode, outstanding battery performance and much more; total pixels: 46.89 million
Related:
5. Pentax K-1
For the features Pentax has managed to pack into this camera, it’s actually quite reasonably priced. You’ll get a full-frame sensor with a resolution of 36 megapixels to start.
On top of that, the Pentax K-1 has an excellent autofocus system and feels really solid in your hand. It’s a great choice for shooting real estate photos. The very wide ISO range from 100 to 204,800 will help you take better quality images in brightly lit and low light situations.
- 36 MP AA filter less shake reduction sensor with APS C crop mode for compatibility with Pentax k mount lenses
- Hand Held Pixel Shift Resolution that allows 4 images to be complied into an superior image with increased color rendition and sharpness
- Engine Accelerometer for reduced image noise, faster focusing and increased image sharpness
- Magnesium Alloy, Weather Resistant body for every demanding situation
- Astro tracer extended exposure mode with reduced star trails
6. Canon 6D Mark II
Number 6 on the list is the Canon 6D Mark II. Sporting a full-frame 26MP sensor, there is more than enough resolution for your basic real estate photography.
The reason I like this camera is because it is comparatively budget friendly especially when you consider some of the other models that we have listed here.
Since it is an entry-level camera, you won’t be able to shoot 4K video, but you can certainly shoot 1080p video which is enough for most real estate photography needs.
You’ll get the best results when you mount this camera on a tripod. Some people have noted that the dynamic range is not the best, but you’re getting what you’ve budgeted for. An amateur photographer may not be able to notice the difference, but once you get better, you may start realizing there are some places where the camera is a little lacking.
- 26.2 Megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
- Optical viewfinder with a 45 point all cross type AF system. Compatible lenses: Canon EF lenses (excluding EF S and EF M lenses)
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with phase detection & Full HD 60p
- DIGIC 7 Image Processor, ISO 100 40000. GPS, Wi Fi, NFC and Bluetooth low energy
- Vary angle touch screen, 3.0 inch LCD
7. Canon 1D X Mark II
In an ideal world, the Canon 1D X Mark II would be at the very top of our list. But considering it costs as much as a commission on a house, we’ve stuck it in between other cameras!
The Canon 1D X Mark II is one of the best dSLR cameras, period. Even though it is quite expensive, it will last a long time and continue to deliver results consistently and without fail.
It sports a 20MP full frame sensor and you can shoot 4K video. One of the biggest advantages of this camera is the ability to take really good photographs even with low exposure.
The body is really solid and well built, and you can feel the value in your hands and in the photographs you take.
- Fastest shooting EOS-1D, capable of up to 14 fps full-resolution RAW or JPEG, and up to 16 fps in Live View mode with new Dual DIGIC 6Plus Image Processors
- Achieves a maximum burst rate of up to 170 raws in continuous shooting at up to 16 fps, and 4K movies using CFast cards in the new CFast 2.0 slot
- Improved AF performance through 61-point, wide area AF system with 41 cross-type points, improved center point focusing sensitivity to -3 EV and compatibility down to f 8
- Turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam Learn more: Canon.us livestream
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
Wide angle lenses
- Ultra-wide-angle view that surpasses any Kit Lens and lets you get creative with Composition
- Compact, lightweight, durable design that's great for travel and outings.Angle of view:109 degree to 70 degree
- Outstanding Optics deliver beautiful photos and videos, even in challenging situations. Minimum focus distance - 0.22 meter ( 0.8 feet) from focal plane at all zoom positions
- Near-silent autofocus stepping motor is ideal for recording video. Compatible format(s) DX
- Vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization keeps handheld photos and videos sharp and helps with Low-light shooting.Accepts Filter Type:Screw-on
- Includes all original accessories
- Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR Lens (20067)
- Compact, lightweight, durable design that's great for travel and outings, Outstanding optics deliver beautiful photos and videos, even in challenging situations, Near-silent autofocus stepping motor is ideal for recording video
- Package Quantity - 1
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished it shows limited or no wear
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90 day warranty
- Fast, f/1.8 prime lens is perfect for low-light conditions, travel, environmental portrait and general photography, Engineered for Nikon DX-format D-SLRS, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens renders a picture angle approximating the classic normal angle of view of a 50mm lens on a Nikon FXformat digital SLR or 35mm film camera
- Aspherical lens element minimizes coma and other types of lens aberrations, further improving image integrity, Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) enhances light transmission efficiency and offers color consistency and reduced flare, Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM) enables fast, accurate and quiet autofocus
- Close focusing to 1 foot for creative perspectives and versatility, Rounded 7-blade diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural, Accepts 52mm filter attachments
- EF-S ultra wide zoom lens. Drive System-Lead screw and rack system driven by stepping motor
- Focal Length & Maximum Aperture: 10-18mm,1:4.5 - 5.6
- Closest Focusing Distance: 0.72 ft. / 0.22m
- Stepping motor for noise-free video shooting
- Optical image stabilizer
- Wide angle lens for Canon APS C cameras (equivalent to 38 millimeter on a full frame camera)
- Focal length & maximum aperture: 24 millimeter 1:2.8, maximum magnification of x0.27
- Slimmest and lightest lens of the EF S series
- Circular aperture (7 blades) delivers beautiful, soft backgrounds
- Full time manual focus allows manual focus adjustment while in One Shot AF mode
- LENS ATTACHMENT: Easily screws on to the front of your lens, and instantly expands the field of view for breathtaking wide-angle photography. Features a detachable macro lens for extremely high-resolution close-ups of small objects.
- LENS COMPATIBILITIES: Popular 58MM Lens models including Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III USM, Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G, Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4-5.6 R, Panasonic Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm f/2.8 II, Fujifilm XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II
- CAMERA MODELS: Canon EOS Rebel T7 T7i T6i T6 T6s T5i T5 T4i T3i T100 SL3 SL2 SL1 90D 80D 77D 70D 1100D 700D 650D 600D 550D 7D Mark II 6D Mark II 5DS 5D Mark II 1D Mark II M3 M5 M6 M10 M50 M100 M200 R RP
- NOTE: PLEASE VERIFY YOUR CAMERA'S LENS THREAD SIZE BEFORE ORDERING. This Wide-Angle is compatible with 58MM lenses only. Lens sizes vary regardless of camera brand or model. Your camera's lens thread size will be marked somewhere on the lens barrel or printed underneath your lens cap. This number is always preceded by a ''Ø'' (diameter) symbol. For example: Ø58 = 58mm lens thread size.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: Backed by Our 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right camera for real estate photography can make a big difference in selling your property faster. With the wide angle lenses and excellent low light performance of the cameras we have listed here, you’ll be able to capture the beauty and uniqueness of your home in stunning detail.
Whether you’re selling or showcasing your property on Airbnb or rentals, investing in a good camera is definitely worth it. So, what are you waiting for? Get your camera and start capturing those breathtaking shots that will make your property stand out from the crowd!