As a realtor in this digital age, you must leverage video content to set yourself apart from the competition. Static images and text descriptions are no longer enough to attract and hold the attention of buyers. Potential home buyers want to be transported into properties via immersive video experiences delivered through the comfort of their devices.
To create high-quality real estate videos that convert, you can hire a professional video production company or get the necessary real estate videography equipment and do it yourself.
Content creation can be quite challenging. But having the right tools and equipment can make your work much easier. This article explores the tools and equipment you need for unrivaled real estate video production. It will cover everything from the basics to some optional items that will take your videos to the next level.
What to Include in Your Real Estate Video Equipment List
Start your video production journey by securing the equipment and mastering the real estate videography tips below.
Cameras
You can use your phone camera to create exciting real estate videos. When you are getting started, a smartphone might be all you need. Today’s advanced devices have all the features you need to capture high-quality footage. Stand-out features include slow-motion modes, low-light features, and wide-angle lenses. You can boost the quality of your smartphone videos by adding the right accessories to your recording setup.
However, if you want to create high-quality content regularly, get a better camera.
When looking for the right camera, consider important factors like versatility, stabilization, low-light performance, resolution, and ease of use. Some of the main options to consider here include:
- Camcorders: While they may not seem like the most advanced cameras, camcorders are used by many real estate agents to record quality videos. One of the main advantages of using camcorders is that they are easy to use. The latest versions can capture top-quality 4K video and come with a stabilization feature.
- Mirrorless Cameras: Another great option for beginners, mirrorless cameras are light, compact, and easy to use. In addition to having a display screen, these cameras make it easier for users to capture selfie shots thanks to their reversible display screen. Mirrorless cameras have a compact design that makes them easier to use with accessories like gimbals.
- DSLRs: If you want a powerful camera with advanced video recording features, consider getting a DSLR. Most DLSLRs can shoot HD and 4K video. Top-tier versions even come with premium features like a touchscreen.
DSLR cameras are a great option for users ready to invest time in mastering how to use them. Be careful when choosing to use a DSLR as the quality of your video content will suffer if you don’t know how to use the camera.
Microphones
Most people automatically think about image clarity when they hear the word video. However, when it comes to real estate videos, audio quality is just as important as the visuals. These videos normally have a lot of narration — making sound one of the most important features. In most cases, people won’t want to continue watching your video if they cannot hear what is said.
As such, you should use an external microphone to capture professional-level audio without background interference. Internal microphones just won’t cut it.
Accessories
In addition to a good camera and microphone, you will need several accessories to produce great real estate videos. Necessary accessories include:
- Memory Cards: Video footage can take up a lot of storage space. Make your work easier by getting the largest memory card you can afford. You should also think about buying an external hard disk to back up all your recorded video files. Cloud storage is also a good option to back up your files. However, you will need a good internet connection to access files in the cloud.
- Tripod: A tripod can be quite useful when getting started with video content creation. Tripods are meant to ensure that your videos are not shaky. These accessories are available at different prices, and even the cheapest ones can do a decent job of keeping your camera stable when recording.
- Gimbal: If you want to record silky smooth house tour videos, consider investing in a gimbal. While they tend to be considerably more expensive than tripods, gimbals are essential for quality video production. These accessories correct any shakiness in your videos with the help of battery-powered sensors and motors.
Gimbals come in different shapes and prices. The best fit for you depends on the camera in use — a small one can comfortably hold your smartphone but might struggle with the weight of a top-of-the-range camera.
- Lenses: If you intend to use a DSLR camera to film your real estate videos, you may need to experiment with different lenses. While they may not be necessary, these accessories add a significant level of sophistication to your videos. Wide-angle lenses can be useful when filming neighborhoods and properties.
- Lighting: As a rule of thumb, you should always rely on natural lighting when recording real estate videos. However, given the unpredictability of the weather, it pays to have a backup lighting alternative. For effortless recording, you can attach square LED lights or small ring lights to your gimbal or camera.
A single (overhead) light can be enough for beginners. You can choose between a fluorescent and tungsten light. The former gives off a bluish-colored light while the latter is known for its warm yellow-like glow. Focus on using something that properly illuminates the space instead of the color of the light produced as you can correct this using your camera’s white-balance.
Start Creating High-Quality Real Estate Videos Today!
The first step to creating top-tier real estate videos involves getting the right equipment and tools. Afterward, you can learn the ins and outs of top-quality video production.
If you don’t have time to record your videos, consider hiring a reputable real estate videography company.
Our Orlando Video Production Company, NG Production Films, can communicate effectively and efficiently to produce high-quality video production. We have over a decade of experience to produce the next video production project for your organization. Call NG Production Films today for a free no obligation consultation at 407-233-3236 or fill out our contact form for a prompt reply.