If your Memphis listing hits the market without scroll‑stopping photos, you are leaving money and momentum on the table. Buyers start online, and the images you share do the heavy lifting before anyone books a showing. In this guide, you will learn exactly what to photograph, how to present it, when to schedule shoots in our climate, and the simple legal rules to keep you protected. Let’s dive in.
Why great photos sell in Memphis
High‑quality listing photos consistently rank among the most useful features for buyers who search online. The National Association of Realtors reports that photos are at or near the top of what buyers rely on when evaluating homes. You can see that emphasis in the latest Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. Review the NAR findings on buyer behavior.
Industry studies also show a clear performance edge for professional photography. Analyses commonly report faster sales and modest price premiums for listings shot by pros, with faster time to contract often cited around the 30 percent range. Results vary by price point and market conditions, but the direction is consistent. See a summary of the research on pro photography performance.
Memphis has a wide range of architecture and price points, from Midtown’s historic streets to newer homes in East Memphis and the suburbs. Many buyers are relocating or previewing from out of town, which means your photos must help them pre‑qualify the property before they ever step inside. Highlighting curb appeal, floor plan flow, and unique character is key in neighborhoods like Midtown and Cooper‑Young. Learn more about the Midtown context and character and Cooper‑Young’s historic fabric.
Must‑have listing shots
- One clean, front exterior curb photo featured early in the gallery
- Kitchen, main living area, dining or open‑plan flow
- Primary bedroom and bath
- Additional bedrooms and baths
- Backyard, patio, pool, or outdoor living areas
- Special features like a finished basement, detached garage, or flex space
MLS feeds often expect a front exterior among the first images, so align your thumbnail with the home’s best curb impression. See an MLS rules summary on media order and expectations.
Value‑add media that boosts interest
- Floor plan in 2D so buyers understand flow
- 3D tour or virtual walkthrough for remote shoppers
- Drone aerial to show lot context and proximity to parks or the river
- Twilight exterior for premium curb appeal
- Short walkthrough video to capture movement and light
Floor plans and 3D tours keep buyers engaged longer and help reduce no‑shows. Learn why these media types improve conversion.
How many photos to include
- Condos and smaller homes: 12 to 20 images
- Typical single‑family: 20 to 35 images
- Larger or luxury estates: 40 or more
Order the gallery to tell a clean story: curb, main living, kitchen and dining, bedrooms and baths, special features, then exterior and aerial. These ranges mirror common packages in the market. See an example of package ranges.
Composition and lighting basics
Great photos are simple, honest, and bright. Ask your photographer to:
- Use a rectilinear wide lens, keep verticals straight, and avoid extreme distortion
- Bracket exposures to balance bright windows and interior detail
- Shoot at a height around 4 to 5 feet for natural room proportions
- Turn on all lights, declutter surfaces, and keep colors consistent in post
These best practices are standard among professional real estate photographers. Get a quick overview of techniques and equipment.
Drone photos: when and how
Aerials shine when the lot is large, the location near parks or the river matters, or the driveway, rooftop, or parking is a selling point. Any drone use for marketing is commercial. Hire a Part 107‑certified pilot, confirm registration and insurance, and check airspace near Memphis International and local parks. Review FAA Part 107 requirements.
Virtual staging and AI edits
Virtual staging helps empty rooms feel livable, but disclosure rules apply. Label virtually staged images in captions and, when required by the MLS, include at least one unstaged photo of the same view. Do not add or remove permanent features or hide defects. See virtual staging best practices and MLS disclosure guidance.
Memphis timing and seasonality
Memphis weather can swing from bright spring days to humid summer afternoons. Plan exteriors in early morning or late afternoon, especially in summer, and target spring or fall for the best landscaping and softer light. Fall color often peaks by November. For twilight exteriors, check sunset times and avoid storm windows. Get a quick overview of Memphis climate patterns.
In historic districts like Midtown, Central Gardens, Speedway Terrace, and Greenlaw, showcase period details such as wraparound porches, millwork, and original wood floors. In shotgun or narrow‑lot homes, use angles that emphasize flow and outdoor space without distortion.
A Memphis‑ready media package
For most single‑family homes, a smart package includes:
- 20 to 30 edited photos, a twilight exterior, and one drone aerial when useful
- A 2D floor plan plus a simple 3D tour or a 60 to 90 second walkthrough video
- Delivery in MLS‑ready, watermark‑free JPEGs within 24 to 72 hours
Package details vary by provider, but these are common and effective inclusions. See an example of typical offerings. For delivery formats and licensing expectations, confirm what you will receive in writing. Review a local studio’s deliverables overview.
Protect your media rights and compliance
- MLS rules: Many MLSs require a front exterior photo, discourage or prohibit logos and watermarks, and set virtual staging disclosure standards. Confirm Memphis Area MLS policies before shooting. Review an MLS rules roundup on media. Also see a policy summary on required images and watermarks. Check this MLS guidance.
- Copyright and licensing: Photographers typically retain copyright unless transferred. Get usage rights in writing for the MLS, broker site, and syndication. Ask for MLS‑clean files and clarify post‑closing reuse. Learn who owns real estate images.
- Drone operations: Verify Part 107 certification, registration, and insurance. Check local park or municipal restrictions. Confirm rules directly from the FAA.
Simple prep checklist for sellers
- Declutter counters, bath surfaces, and nightstands
- Remove small personal items and secure valuables
- Replace bulbs so all fixtures match in color and brightness
- Mow, edge, and sweep the front walk and driveway
- Hide bins, hoses, and pet bowls; tidy porch and patio seating
- Open blinds and curtains to bring in natural light
Bottom line
Great listing media helps you win buyer attention, drive more showings, and support stronger offers. In Memphis, where charm, character, and outdoor living often seal the deal, thoughtful photos, floor plans, and tours make your home easy to love online and in person.
If you want a data‑driven plan for presenting your home at its best, connect with Carrie Benitone for a tailored strategy and premium marketing that fits your property.
FAQs
Do professional photos increase Memphis sale prices?
- Studies show professionally photographed listings often sell faster and may achieve modest price premiums, though results vary by price point and market conditions. See a roundup of the research here: professional photos and sale performance and NAR’s emphasis on photos in buyer search behavior: NAR buyer profile.
Are drone photos legal in Tennessee real estate marketing?
- Yes if flown under FAA Part 107 rules by a certified remote pilot with a registered drone, proper airspace authorizations, and insurance. Review FAA Part 107.
Is virtual staging allowed in Memphis MLS listings?
- Usually yes, but you must disclose it per MLS rules, avoid altering permanent features, and include an unstaged version of the same view when required. See disclosure best practices.
How many photos should my Memphis listing include?
- Aim for 20 to 35 images for most single‑family homes, fewer for small condos and more for large or luxury properties, ordered to tell a clear story from curb to backyard. See example package ranges.
When is the best season to shoot exteriors in Memphis?
- Spring and fall offer softer light and stronger curb appeal, while summer heat and humidity favor early morning or late afternoon shoots. Review Memphis climate basics.
