Real estate photographs
Photos are often the first impression a buyer or renter has of a property. This page explains what professional property photography usually includes, how to prepare a home, and the rules worth knowing for drone images and advertising.
This is a free, non-commercial reference page. It is general information only, not professional, legal or financial advice, and it does not rank or recommend any business. Listing in the directory is not an endorsement. Check current details with the official websites linked below.
The guide
The main things to understand.
What's usually included
A typical shoot covers the main living areas, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, outdoor areas and front exterior. Many photographers also offer twilight shots, video, floor plans and virtual tours.
Preparing the home
Declutter, clear benches, open curtains, turn on lights, tidy gardens and move cars from the driveway. Small changes make a large difference.
Floor plans and virtual tours
Floor plans help buyers understand layout and size; 3D tours and video suit interstate and overseas buyers.
Drone images
Aerial photos show land, views and location. Drone flying in Australia is regulated by CASA, and there are rules about who can fly commercially and where. Ask any operator about their CASA approvals.
Image licensing
Who owns the photos and how they can be reused depends on the agreement with the photographer. Clarify usage rights, especially if the property may be re-listed or rented later.
Accurate advertising
Edited images should not mislead buyers or renters about a property. Virtual staging and heavy editing should be disclosed where appropriate.
Official and industry sources
Where to check the details.
| Name | Location | Website | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CASA: Hiring a drone operator | National | www.casa.gov.au/operations-safety-and-travel/consumer-and-passenger-advice/hiring-drone-operator | |
| Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) | National | www.reiaustralia.com.au | |
| ACCC: Consumer rights and guarantees | National | www.accc.gov.au/consumers/buying-products-and-services/consumer-rights-and-guarantees |
Inclusion in this directory is not an endorsement. Links are to official websites as published at the time of checking.
Before you decide
Questions worth asking.
- What's included in the package?
- Photos, floor plan, video, twilight and drone are often priced separately.
- Who owns the images, and for how long can they be used?
- Get usage rights in writing.
- For drone shots: is the operator CASA-approved?
- Ask before booking.
- When will the images be ready?
- Turnaround matters for listing deadlines.
About this page
This page is a plain reference on real estate photography. It does not provide photography services. Photographers and agencies wanting a correction can use the contact link below.