Real estate videography has become an invaluable tool for selling properties in the digital age. A well-produced video allows potential buyers to tour a home or commercial space virtually, getting a vivid sense of the layout, features and overall feel of the property. Investing in high-quality videography is now considered essential for realtors looking to market listings online and attract the highest number of qualified leads.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about real estate videography, from equipment to shooting tips. product videography pricing By the end, you’ll have all the information needed to produce compelling videos that showcase properties in the best possible light.
Why Invest in Real Estate Videography?
Here are some of the key benefits of working with a real estate videographer:
Increase Listing Views and Engagement
Listings with videos receive 403% more inquiries than those without, according to figures reported by the National Association of Realtors. Videos attract more attention and help listings stand out.
Allow Virtual Property Tours
High-quality videos give potential buyers a detailed tour of the property without having to visit in person. This is hugely beneficial for out of town buyers.
Expand Your Reach
Videos allow listings to be shared easily on social media and real estate sites, getting the property in front of many more potential buyers.
Speed Up The Sales Process
Properties with video walkthroughs tend to sell faster. Videography allows buyers to get a realistic sense of the property early on.
Deliver Consistent Branding
A videographer can ensure videos align with a real estate agent or agency’s overall branding for a cohesive, professional look.
What Makes a Good Real Estate Video?
Real estate videos should focus on highlighting the most impressive features of the property. The videographer needs to capture spaces in a way that appeals to viewer emotions and helps them imagine living in the space.
Here are some key elements of effective real estate videography:
- Steadicam, drone and tripod shots mixed together for visual variety. Avoid shaky handheld shots.
- Bright, natural lighting that shows rooms in the best way at different times of day.
- Slow pans and zooms over key features and architectural details.
- B-roll footage of the neighborhood, amenities, landscaping and exterior.
- Optional voiceover or music track to create an engaging, professional mood.
- Short run time between 1-3 minutes so viewers stay engaged.
- Focused on the property itself – no shots of people or furniture.
What Equipment Do You Need?
While you can shoot real estate videos with a smartphone or DSLR camera, dedicated videography equipment takes things to the next level. Here are some recommended items:
Camera
A mirrorless or DSLR camera capable of shooting 4K video ensures excellent resolution. Some popular options are the Sony A7 III, Canon EOS R and Panasonic Lumix GH5.
Lenses
Wide-angle lenses like 16-35mm let you capture the full scope of interior spaces. Macro lenses provide details on features.
Gimbal
A 3-axis gimbal stabilizer like DJI RS 2 helps achieve smooth tracking and pan shots.
Drone
Drones like the DJI Mavic Air 2 allow unique aerial perspectives of the home and neighborhood.
Tripod
A sturdy tripod enables stable locked-off shots inside and outside.
Shotgun Microphone
An external mic provides clean, directional audio to enhance production quality.
Real Estate Videography Tips
Follow these tips when planning and shooting real estate videos:
Scout Locations
Do a walkthrough of the property ahead of time to determine shooting angles, lighting, room order, etc.
Shoot Over 2-3 Sessions
Shoot exteriors at a different time than interiors to capture optimal lighting in each space.
Mix Up Shot Types
Combine wide shots, zooms, pans and details for visual interest. Vary camera angles.
Optimize Lighting
Supplement natural light with reflectors and LED lamps. Avoid overheads that create shadows.
Mind Audio
Record room tone and watch background noise near windows and vents.
Work Quickly
Shoot efficiently to avoid disruptions. Homeowners will be present.
Include B-Roll
Supplement interior footage with exterior images and neighborhood shots to break things up.
Avoid Distractions
Declutter spaces and watch for intrusive objects in the frame.
How Much Does Real Estate Videography Cost?
Real estate videography costs an average of $200-$500 per finished 1-3 minute video, depending on the videographer’s experience level and the production value. Here are some typical pricing tiers:
Starter Package: $200 – $300
- 1 videographer
- 1 camera
- 2-3 hours shooting
- Edited video up to 2 minutes
Standard Package: $300 – $400
- 2 videographers
- 2 cameras
- Half day shooting
- Edited 3-5 min video
Premium Package: $400-$500+
- 2+ videographers
- Pro equipment
- Full day shoot
- Edited 5+ minute video
Many factors like sq. footage, additional equipment and extended time increase costs. Be sure to get an itemized quote accounting for everything needed to produce the desired end product.
FAQs About Real Estate Videography
What is the best time of day to shoot real estate video?
The best time is often early morning when sunlight is soft and rooms are filled with natural light. Late afternoon can also produce a warm glow.
How do you frame shots to showcase properties?
Lead with wide establishing shots, then go tighter on rooms and details. Shoot toward windows and features. Go high and low.
Should I hire an agent’s in-house videographer or an independent?
Independent videographers often have higher end gear and more experience. In-house can be more affordable but check their portfolio first.
How many videos should you have per listing?
One highly produced video is typically sufficient. Some agents opt for an additional walkthrough or neighborhood one as well.
What software do I need to edit real estate footage?
Popular options are Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve which offer extensive video editing toolsets.
