Beginners Guide

3 Situations To Utilize Bokeh In Real Estate Photography

3 Situations To Utilize Bokeh In Real Estate Photography

Although the bokeh technique that is so popular in many genres of photography can be very beautiful, it’s not the best technique to use for real estate photography. However, there are some situations where it can work.

In this article I’ll discuss 3 situations to utilize bokeh in real estate photography and give a brief explanation of how to go about incorporating it into your business.

Table of Contents

Understanding Bokeh in Photography

Bokeh occurs when a camera lens is at a very wide aperture to you can see out-of-focus points of light. The effect can range from soft and subtle to very dramatic, depending on the lens aperture and the distance from the subject.

Bokeh is often used in portrait and macro photography, but it can also add a creative and emotive element to real estate photos if used properly.

Here are 3 situations to use bokeh in real estate photography.

3 Situations To Use Bokeh In Real Estate Photography

1. Detail Photos: Highlighting Features with Focus

One of the ideal scenarios for using bokeh in real estate photography is when capturing detail shots. It can really work for 2 things specifically:

  • Accentuating Features: Use bokeh to highlight specific architectural or design elements like custom door handles, intricate light fixtures, or unique tile work. A shallow depth of field will blur the background, drawing the viewer’s eye to these details.
  • Creating Interest: Detail shots with bokeh can break up the monotony of wide-angle shots in a listing and add an artistic flair that captures attention.

2. Exterior Images: Adding Depth and Context

While the primary goal of exterior shots is to show the entirety of a property, bokeh can be used strategically to add depth and context.

  • Foreground Interest: If an exterior shot includes foreground elements like foliage or outdoor decor, a slight bokeh effect can create a sense of depth, making the property appear more nestled and inviting.
  • Selective Focus: In urban settings, using bokeh to slightly blur out neighboring properties or distractions can help keep the focus on the property itself.

3. Garden and Landscape Photography: Creating an Oasis

Gardens and landscaped areas are often selling points for a property. Bokeh can enhance these areas by creating a dreamy, serene atmosphere.

  • Softening Backgrounds: Use bokeh to soften backgrounds in garden shots, which can make the space feel like a tranquil retreat.
  • Highlighting Garden Features: Whether it’s a water feature, a unique plant, or a cozy garden bench, bokeh can isolate these features, making them stand out as key elements of the garden.

Factors To Consider When Using Bokeh In Real Estate Photography

  • Aperture Settings: To achieve the bokeh look, you need to use a wider aperture (lower f-stop number). Experiment with different settings to see how they affect the depth of field and the extent of the bokeh.
  • Lens Choice: Fast lenses (those with wider maximum apertures) are better suited for creating pronounced bokeh. Lenses with apertures of f2.8 or lower are great choices.
  • Composition: Pay attention to both the subject and the background. The distance between the subject, the camera, and the background will impact the bokeh effect.
  • Lighting: Bokeh is particularly beautiful when there are points of light in the background, such as sunlight filtering through trees, the glimmer of light on water, or lightbulbs like you see in the lead image.

When To Avoid Bokeh In Real Estate Photography

In general, bokeh should be used very rarely in real estate photography. Classic and excellent real estate photography shows off full spaces with everything sharp and in full focus.

You really should only be capturing bokeh images when the perfect situation presents itself. Trying to force bokeh shots into real estate photography can lead to awkward looking photos and disappointed clients.

Additional Resources

If you’re just getting started in real estate photography, check out our Beginners Guide. It’s full of helpful articles and tips that will guide you in the right direction as you begin your real estate photography journey.

You can check out our Gear section as well to see reviews and recommendations on the latest real estate photography gear.

If you’re more interested in other resources that can help your real estate photography business, check out our Business Resources page.

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About author
Matthew Digati is a professional Real Estate and Architectural Photographer. Matthew has worked as a Real Estate and Architectural Photographer since 2015 and has photographed properties and projects all over the United States.
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