In today’s digital‑first real estate market, the first showing rarely happens in person—it happens online. When potential buyers scroll through listings, photos and videos are the deciding factor in whether they stop and learn more or swipe past. Professional photography, videography, drone aerials and 3‑D virtual tours give sellers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) a competitive edge, helping properties stand out and sell faster.
The impact of high‑quality photos
Research shows that professional imagery can dramatically improve both time‑on‑market and final sale price:
- Homes with high‑quality photos sell 32 % faster: PhotoUp reports that properties photographed by professionals spend 89 days on market versus 123 days for homes with standard or low‑quality images. High‑quality photos allow buyers to visualize the space and motivate them to book viewings.
- Listings with professional photos close for more money: The same study notes that listings with professional images close for between $934 and $116,076 more than comparable listings with inferior photography.
- Professional images attract more views: Professional photography increases a listing’s visibility—listings with high‑quality photos receive 61 % more views and up to 118 % more online views compared with amateur photos.
- Buyers rely on photos to make decisions: A National Association of Realtors (NAR) report cited by PhotoUp found that 85 % of buyers judge a home based on listing photos and 83 % consider photos the most useful resource when researching homes. In fact, photos are the #1 factor in buyers’ first impressions.
- Aerial photos speed up sales: Properties that include drone or aerial photography sell 68 % faster than those without, demonstrating the appeal of elevated perspectives.
- High‑quality gear matters: Using a DSLR or mirrorless camera can add $3,000 – $11,000 to the sale price of a home listed at $300,000 or above.
These statistics make clear that investing in professional photography isn’t a luxury—it’s an effective way to increase buyer interest, shorten time on market and achieve higher sale prices.
Video, drone and 3‑D tours
While still photos remain the foundation of listing marketing, video walkthroughs, drone aerials and 3‑D virtual tours add depth:
- Videos: A video tour gives buyers a sense of flow and scale. Smooth, stabilized footage allows viewers to picture themselves in the home and can highlight special features such as open‑concept kitchens or spa‑like bathrooms.
- Drone aerials: Aerial photos and videos provide context—showing the property’s lot, landscaping and proximity to parks, schools and neighbourhood amenities. Homes with aerial images sell significantly faster.
- 3‑D virtual tours: Interactive virtual tours let buyers explore each room at their own pace. These tours can filter unqualified buyers by allowing them to preview the home before booking a showing, saving time for both sellers and agents.
How SF Photography / Toronto Real Estate Photography can help
SF Photography and Toronto Real Estate Photography specialize in creating high‑impact visuals for listings across Oakville, Milton, Mississauga, Brampton, Burlington and the wider GTA. Our services include:
- Professional real estate photography using full‑frame cameras and expert composition techniques.
- 4K video walkthroughs and cinematic drone footage.
- 3‑D virtual tours and floor plans that allow buyers to explore each space virtually.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a real‑estate agent, partnering with a professional photographer can significantly boost your marketing results. Reach out today to learn how we can help your listing stand out.