Why Real Estate Headshots Matter
Insights from Paul Streit Photography
Key benefits: make a strong first impression, build trust, and project professionalism
Ready to book a session?
or have a question?
✉ photo@paulstreit.com
Click my email address, it will open an email on your computer / phone – click the phone # button to call me from your phone)



My guarantee – if you’re not satisfied with your headshots, I’ll reshoot your session at no charge!
In the real estate industry, first impressions go a long way in determining a realtor’s success and credibility. Clients often judge within the first few seconds of viewing your portfolio if they want you to handle their business or not. Now while many factors influence a client’s perception of you as a realtor, one factor that heavily impacts the first impression clients get of you is your real estate headshots.
Many people overlook the importance of modern real estate headshots but this isn’t your average selfie or passport photo. Your portrait is a marketing asset that communicates your professionalism and competence as a realtor. Clients want to see a friendly and confident face – Someone who looks like they know what they are doing and isn’t new to the job.
If you want to elevate your career and success story as a realtor, your portrait is a good place to start. However, there is more to taking the perfect realtor headshot than just standing in front of a plain background and smiling at the camera. This guide reveals everything you need to know about making your headshot stand out.
Mastering the Art of Professional Real Estate Headshots
According to Paul Streit, here are elements that makes real estate headshots stand out:
Dress Style
You should wear something that compliments your face and gives off a confident yet polished look. You can never go wrong with a tailored suit or jacket. Go for simple and solid colors that don’t clash and don’t overdo it with the accessories. It’s important to also wear colors that align with your company’s image and identity for quick recognition and brand recall.
Posture and Expressions
The right headshot is one that communicates your personality. You want to appear friendly and approachable. A soft smile can go a long way in convincing a potential client or business partner. I always coach my clients on the right posture and expression to go for. Think of what you’d like to see if you were looking to hire a realtor. Then go for that.
Lighting and Background
You should discuss lighting and background choices before your session. You want colors that will highlight your best features and make your portrait clearer’s. Your real estate headshots photographer should know the best angles, backgrounds, and lighting options to give you the best result.
Photographer’s Expertise
One common mistake people make when hiring a real estate photographer is neglecting the person’s specialty and portfolio. You should only hire a photographer who has relevant experience taking realtor headshots in your area because such a person will understand the requirements and trends in your industry.
Also, check reviews and recommendations from former clients to know more about the style and personality of your photographer.
READY TO book a session?
or have a question?
✉ photo@paulstreit.com
Click my email address, it will open an email on your computer / phone – click the phone # button to call me from your phone)



How Modern Real Estate Headshots Contribute to Branding
Did you know that your headshot plays a very significant role in personal branding? It can tell people a lot about your values and competence even before they meet with you.
A professional real estate headshots can also enhance a realtor’s market presence and network. It’s a great way to meet new people and broaden your reach in the industry. You’ll be surprised by how far a headshot can take you in this industry.
Quality Matters: Crafting the Perfect Real Estate Headshot
One of the common questions I get is; What defines a quality headshot?
A quality headshot captures your personality and professionalism in a way that aligns with your brand’s identity and core values. Certain elements matter when crafting the perfect one:
- Lighting: The lighting has to be even with no dark shadows or overexposed tones.
- Clear and high-resolution: A quality headshot should be clear and have high resolution with a focus on important details.
- Expression: A quality headshot portrays a warm and friendly expression.
- Background: A quality portrait must have the right background color that compliments your attire and face.
- Framing: A quality portrait should capture you from the shoulders up and the image should be centered.
- Photo retouching: A quality headshot shouldn’t have flaws, stray hairs, or wrinkles on the skin. This is the magic of professional photo retouching and editing.
Standing Out: Unique Real Estate Headshots in a Competitive Market
Do you want something different that will make you stand out from the competition?
Here are strategies for differentiating your headshot:
Unique Backgrounds: We have all seen professional real estate headshots in front of blue, green, and white backgrounds. How about taking your portrait outdoors next to a luxury home?
Dress for the occasion: Suits and blazers are all the rave these days but you can switch it up by going for something different. An outfit made from your brand’s colors can give you that edge you are looking for.
Engaging Expressions: Avoid boring and old expressions. You want something more engaging that clients will give a second look. A slight tilt of the head or an over-the-shoulder look can give you a more relaxed and engaging expression.
Alternative lighting: You can also stand out by using alternative lighting options. Work with your photographer to get alternate lighting options and angles for the shot.
The Photographer’s Touch: Elevating Real Estate Headshots
A professional headshot photographer adds value to your photo through a mix of expertise and creativity. Paul Streit’s process for creating impactful images comes down to five essential steps:
- Schedule a Meeting: This is where you and I discuss the details of your shoot. What you want to achieve, the purpose of the shoot, location scouting, preferred background colors, and lighting.
- Pre-shoot Preparation: This involves wardrobe and styling choices, grooming, and make-up.
- Location Setup: This is where I set up the lights and background in your preferred location. I consider the perfect angles and take a few shots just to be sure everything is perfect.
- Shoot Day: This is where the magic happens. Using high-end camera equipment, I take multiple shots from different angles, so you have options to choose from.
- Post-Production: This is where I edit your portrait to remove flaws and perfect the final image. This includes cropping, adjusting brightness and lighting, and color correction.
Preparing for Your Real Estate Headshot: Tips and Tricks
Here are Paul’s tips for achieving the best look:
- Groom and dress professionally.
- Choose wardrobe and background colors that match and align with your company’s identity.
- Choose a real estate headshots photographer nearby.
- Discuss details of the shoot with your photographer including the wardrobe and styling, time for the shoot, location, and delivery.
- Choose the best location for your shoot. Your office, home, or outdoor are options to consider.
Investing in Your Image with Real Estate Headshots
When it comes to the real estate market, the importance of real estate headshots is extremely vital. A high-quality headshot can make all the difference between a successful realtor who closes deals and one waiting for his or her next big break. Remember that first impressions matter, so it’s important to look your best and create an image that says; “Here’s my new realtor!”
Would you like to hire the best real estate headshot photographer to revamp your portfolio? I’m just a call away, so call or email me today to book your photography session and get ready to share your testimonial.