How Property Size Affects the Price of Real Estate Photography
If you’ve ever wondered why one shoot costs $250 and another jumps to $500, chances are—property size is a big part of that equation.
While there are other variables (like location, number of photos, or drone work), the square footage and layout of a property directly impact shoot time, editing hours, and pricing.
Why Bigger Homes = More Work
Photographing a 4,500 sq. ft. property isn’t just “more rooms.” It’s:
More staging adjustments
More angles to cover per room
More lighting and gear repositioning
Longer post-production time
A small condo might take 30–45 minutes to shoot. A large, multi-level home? Easily 2+ hours, not counting editing.
Visual Consistency Takes Time
It’s not about snapping more photos. It’s about making sure:
Each room feels cohesive and inviting
Wide angles aren’t distorted
Exposure and color balance match from space to space
That kind of consistency across a large property is where real pros separate themselves from budget amateurs.
Why Flat Rates Can Be Misleading
Some budget photographers advertise a flat rate—until you mention that the home is over 3,000 square feet. Suddenly, you’re hit with:
Extra charges for additional images
Surprise editing fees
Limited licensing or watermarked files
A transparent quote based on property size saves everyone time—and trust.
So, How Should It Be Priced?
In general:
Small homes/condos (under 1,500 sq. ft.): $200–$300
Mid-size homes (1,500–3,500 sq. ft.): $300–$450
Large properties (3,500+ sq. ft.): $450–$650+
These vary based on market and deliverables, but that range reflects the time, effort, and editing needed for proper coverage.
Final Thought: You’re Not Just Buying Photos—You’re Buying Time
Your photographer isn’t charging for just images—they’re charging for their time, their gear, and the responsibility of making your listing look like it’s worth what you’re asking.
If the home’s big—and your commission is big—your photography should rise to that level.