SHOOTING REAL ESTATE: OPEN OR CLOSED DOORS?
For many real estate photographers, it’s a burning question: to open the doors or not to open the doors? Some may think it’s a futile conundrum, but whether or not you open the doors in a home can actually make all the difference in the outcome of the photos.
The Short Answer...
Yes, you should open the doors.
Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. Doors that hide clutter, personal belongings, or toilets are best kept closed, but otherwise, the simple act of opening a door can enhance the look and feel of a photo in a huge way.
Keep reading to find out why you should open those doors nice and wide at your next photo shoot.
Give a Sense of the Layout
Real estate photography should always aim to showcase the home to its full potential, but it can also provide useful context for potential buyers. Shooting a property with open doors can give the viewer a sense of how the rooms connect with each other. Closing them cuts off the important stuff.

Create an Open and Spacious Feel
Take any room from feeling closed off and stagnant to spacious and enticing by simply opening the doors. Doors to outdoor entertainment areas and backyards should be opened to add depth and give the impression of that desirable indoor-outdoor living flow.

Make it Warm and Inviting
In both real life and real estate photography, an open door is essentially an invitation to look further. Opening doors works wonders to extend a warm welcome, particularly for external shots of the home where you can see the front door. With the front door wide open, viewers can envision themselves entering the home after a day at work.
Level Up Your Photos
Opening doors is a simple action that is sometimes so easily overlooked while on a busy photo shoot, but it can make a lasting impression on potential buyers. It’s one of the first steps you can take to make your images go from run-of-the-mill to unforgettable.
For more tips on taking your own listing photos, learn how to shoot a property for under $20 and the 9 items that are hurting your listing.
New to BoxBrownie.com? Sign up now and receive 4 edits free. No credit card is needed.
RELATED ARTICLES
Ready to stand out and get more leads? Explore five free BoxBrownie.com resources designed to help you capture better photos, streamline your workflow, and create standout listings that drive faster results.
READ MORELooking for a fresh way to make your property stand out? Our revamped Aerial Drop Pin edits are here! With sleek new pin designs and customizable options to match your branding, you can create stunning, on-brand visuals that grab attention.
READ MOREWant to learn how to shoot real estate like a pro? What about learning how to shoot a property in under 7 minutes? In this article, world class real estate photographer Brad Filliponi shares some of his tips on how to help shoot and sell property faster!
READ MOREWant more Airbnb bookings without breaking the bank? Our latest video reveals how to capture stunning listing photos using just your phone and create professional floor plans. With expert tips from Brad, marketing your Airbnb is now easier than ever.
READ MOREBrad Filliponi hit the jackpot when he studied under Greg Gardner. In this fascinating post, the two industry leaders reflect upon those days gone by.
READ MOREThink phone photos can't compete? Think again. In this photo review, Brad breaks down real images taken by agents using only their phones — and shows how simple tweaks with SnapSnapSnap can turn average into amazing.
READ MORE