Aerial photography adds a dimension to property listings that ground-level shots simply can't provide. It shows the property in context — its plot size, relationship to neighbours, proximity to amenities, and the surrounding landscape.
Essential aerial shots for property photography
- Overhead (bird's eye): Directly above the property looking straight down. Shows the plot layout, garden size, and relationship to neighbours. Great for properties with large gardens or interesting layouts.
- Angled elevation (45 degrees): The most common and useful aerial shot. Shows the property, its roof, garden, and immediate surroundings. Shoot from approximately 20-30m altitude at a 45-degree angle.
- Context shot: Pull back and up to show the property in its wider setting. This is particularly valuable for rural properties, coastal homes, or properties near parks and green spaces.
- Street scene: A lower altitude shot showing the property from the front, slightly elevated. This is essentially a better version of the ground-level front elevation, showing the driveway, front garden, and street context.
Composition tips
- Centre the property: Unlike ground-level photography where off-centre compositions work well, aerial shots usually look best with the property centred or at a strong rule-of-thirds position.
- Include context: Show enough of the surroundings to give the property a sense of place.
- Watch the shadows: Aerial shots taken when the sun is low create long shadows that can dominate the image. Midday is often best for overhead shots.
- Shoot in RAW: Aerial images often need significant post-processing — RAW gives you the flexibility.
- Multiple angles: Orbit the property and shoot from all four sides. You'll choose the best angle in post.
Altitude guidelines
- 10-15m: Street-level elevated shot (front elevation alternative)
- 20-30m: The sweet spot for most property shots
- 40-60m: Context shots showing the wider area
- 80-120m: Wide area shots (village context, coastline, etc.)
When aerial shots add the most value
- Properties with large gardens or grounds
- Rural properties where the setting is a key selling point
- Coastal or waterfront properties
- Properties near parks, countryside, or notable landmarks
- New developments showing the full site
- Properties where the plot shape or size is a selling point
Key Takeaways
- The 45-degree angled elevation is the most useful aerial shot
- Shoot from multiple angles and altitudes for maximum flexibility
- 20-30m altitude is the sweet spot for most property aerial shots
- Aerial photography adds most value for rural, coastal, and large-plot properties
- Always shoot in RAW for post-processing flexibility
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