Adelaide Real Estate Photography Prep Guide

Spacious open-plan living and dining area captured during a real estate photoshoot in Adelaide

🏡 Why bother preparing for a real estate photoshoot?

Good photos don’t just happen because someone showed up with a camera. Whether you’re selling a city apartment, a Barossa vineyard, or a weatherboard in Whyalla, real estate photography works best when the space looks ready to sell.

Agents already know the numbers — listings with strong visuals stop the scroll and book more inspections. But if you’re not prepping your shoot like it matters, you’re leaving money on the table.

🌅 When’s the best time of day to shoot in Adelaide?

  • Standard homes: Late morning or early afternoon for most interior shots.

  • Twilight shots: Around 20–30 minutes after sunset. Ideal for moodier, high-end listings or Airbnbs.

  • Drone work: Weather and wind matter. Mid-morning tends to be reliable.

  • Golden hour: Properties with strong west-facing yards or views benefit from sunset lighting.

☀️ Bonus Tip: Avoid scheduling shoots on trash collection days. Nothing ruins a hero shot faster than a green bin in full sun.

Bright, neutral-toned real estate interior photo with hallway depth and modern styling

📋 Room-by-room prep checklist

Kitchen:

  • Clear benchtops completely.

  • Remove dish racks, tea towels, bins.

  • Leave just one or two items: maybe a fruit bowl or a plant.

Living area:

  • Straighten cushions, rugs, and artwork.

  • Hide remotes and cables.

  • Declutter shelves — less is more.

Bedrooms:

  • Make beds neatly.

  • Tuck away clothes, chargers, books.

  • Clear under the bed (yep, photographers notice).

Bathrooms:

  • Close toilet lids.

  • Remove personal hygiene products and half-empty shampoo bottles.

  • Hang clean towels or leave towel rails bare.

Garage / shed:
Only photograph these if they add value (e.g. large workspace, storage, wine room).

Need a printable version of this? Ask and it’ll be sent out as a prep sheet.

Need a Real Estate Photographer in Adelaide or Regional SA?

From city apartments to rural lifestyle blocks — book real estate photos that actually help your listing stand out. Quick turnarounds, no surprises, no BS.

When you’re ready to book, head to real estate photography in Adelaide for pricing and turnaround, or explore holiday rental photography for short-stay listings.

Real estate photography of an open-plan kitchen and dining area with timber finishes and natural lighting – Adelaide property shoot

🏡 Outdoor photography tips (front, back, and drone)

  • Mow the lawn and sweep hard surfaces the night before.

  • Hide bins, hoses, and any loose tools or kids’ toys.

  • Open up outdoor blinds, umbrellas, and pool covers if they help the look.

  • Pool dirty? Don’t include it — or clean it before the shoot.

✅ Want aerial views? Drone property photography in South Australia gives buyers a better feel for block size, layout, and local features. Also helps rural or unique lifestyle listings stand out.

Open-plan living space inside a small Australian apartment with modern décor and natural light

🚙 Regional notes for rural and lifestyle properties

If you’re selling in areas like the Barossa, Flinders Ranges, or Kangaroo Island, extra care goes a long way:

  • Driveways and entryways are key — clean up access roads and entry signs.

  • Livestock and gear should be out of frame unless they’re the selling point.

  • Long views are a huge asset — time your shoot for soft lighting.

📸 Rural South Australia property photography isn’t just about wide-angle lenses. It’s about storytelling — space, lifestyle, and atmosphere.

Open plan kitchen and dining area with AI staging at a Murray Bridge SDA home

🎥 Extra photography options to consider

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do to prepare my house for real estate photography?

Declutter every room, open blinds, turn on lights, and clear benchtops. Hide personal items and straighten furniture. The goal is a clean, open look — not perfection.

What is the cost of real estate photography in Adelaide?

Most property shoots start from $180. Larger homes or jobs needing drone work, twilight, or video will be quoted individually.

Is it worth getting a professional real estate photographer?

Yes — listings with pro photography attract more views, inspections, and buyer interest. It’s one of the simplest ways to improve your campaign results.

How long does a real estate shoot take?

Standard shoots take 30–60 minutes. Add time if you’re including twilight, video walkthroughs, or AI staging.

What’s the best time of day for real estate photos in Adelaide?

Late morning or early afternoon for interiors. Twilight shoots are best around 20–30 minutes after sunset for exterior shots with mood.

Do I need to be at the property during the shoot?

No — as long as access is arranged and clear instructions are provided. Just make sure all rooms are prepped and blinds/lights are sorted beforehand.

Can you digitally stage or enhance the property photos?

Yes — services like AI staging are available to fill empty rooms or refresh tired ones without real furniture.

Should I include the garage, shed, or laundry?

Only if they add value — like oversized storage, clean renovations, or unique utility. If they’re cluttered or unused, it’s better to leave them out.

Do you shoot rural properties and farms?

Absolutely — rural listings across SA (Barossa, Flinders Ranges, etc.) are welcome. Just flag anything worth highlighting and prep outdoor areas properly.

Warmly lit bedroom in a stylish Australian Airbnb with textured bedding and modern interior design
Twilight wide-angle photo of a luxury Australian coastal home with architectural lighting and ocean backdrop

💰 How much does real estate photography cost in Adelaide?

Most standard shoots start from $180 — including interior, exterior, and basic editing.

Add-ons like video, twilight sessions, or drone work may increase the quote. Get in touch for a custom price based on location and needs.

Want to see examples first? Check out this real estate photography shoot in Murray Bridge or the holiday rental photography portfolio.

Book Your Shoot or Get a Quick Quote

Drop your details below to line up a real estate shoot anywhere across Adelaide or South Australia. No-obligation chat — just the info you need to make a call.

About the Photographer & What Shameless Visuals Does

This article was written by Corey M — the bloke behind Shameless Visuals, based right here in Adelaide. Whether it’s chasing the Southern Lights through a frosty paddock or setting up lights in a boardroom, the job’s the same: find the shot that actually means something.

When Corey’s not editing until his eyeballs hurt, he’s out shooting everything from commercial campaigns to birthday chaos to full-scale conference coverage. No fluff, no gimmicks — just real work that makes people take notice.

If you’re here reading this, chances are you’re after more than just a pretty picture. Here’s what Shameless Visuals actually does:

Explore the full range at the Shameless Visuals homepage or get in touch here to book something real.

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Your project is unique, let’s make sure it’s given the attention it deserves. Hit the button below to head over to our contact page. I’d love to know more about what you’re wanting to achieve and how I can help you make that dream a reality!

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