YouTube Video Production Tips for Real Estate Agents: Simple Setup, Big Impact
Ever wondered if your viewers can really tell the difference between a video shot on a cell phone versus one recorded with a fancy DSLR camera? Does it really matter what you use when your goal is to reach more potential clients and grow your real estate business?
Well, I’ve filmed hundreds of videos using everything from my iPhone to my DSLR, and today, we’re about to uncover the truth!
In this blog, you’ll learn practical YouTube video production tips that’ll have you filming like a pro – without needing to take out a second mortgage for expensive equipment. I’ll guide you through what gear you actually need, how to make the most of your setup, and a few tricks that’ll help your videos stand out to potential clients.
Spoiler alert: You’re probably already holding the most powerful tool in your pocket. So, let’s dive in!
DSLR vs. Smartphone Filming: Is There Really a Difference?
Here’s the big YouTube video production question:
Can the average viewer tell whether a video was filmed on a smartphone or a professional DSLR camera? And even more importantly, does it really matter when your goal is to connect with clients and grow your real estate business?
I’ve recorded videos through my iPhone 13 Pro. Do you think your clients would care if I filmed them on a DSLR?
Here’s one of the realest YouTube video production tips– most viewers wouldn’t know or care. What matters is the content, not the camera. I mean, buying a pair of Air Jordans won’t make me an NBA star, right? Similarly, having a $3,000 camera won’t magically make your video Oscar-worthy.
Want to see the visual comparisons or prefer to watch the video for YouTube video production tips? Watch this!
The Truth About YouTube Video Production: Content is King – Gear is Just a Pawn
I firmly believe the content of your video is far more important than the gear you use to make it. Sure, I love my iPhone 13 Pro with its cinematic mode (which, by the way, creates that nice background blur that makes it look a little more “fancy camera” than “cell phone video”).
But before I had this beauty, I used an iPhone 11, iPhone 8 Plus, and even an iPhone 6 Plus – and guess what? They worked just fine!
Essential Gear for Real Estate Agents: YouTube Video Production Tips
Let’s talk gear. You don’t need to break the bank to create videos that attract clients. Here’s what I recommend for the minimum viable setup:
1. A Solid Tripod
You don’t want your phone falling off the counter mid-recording, do you? Get yourself a good tripod with a cell phone adapter. Not all tripods come with one, so grab an adapter if needed (I’ll save you a rabbit hole of Amazon scrolling by linking a reliable one here).
2. External Microphone
Nobody wants to strain their ears trying to hear you. I highly recommend using an external mic. It doesn’t have to be expensive – just something that brings your voice front and center.
Options? You can go for a lavalier mic (the kind you clip to your shirt), a shotgun mic, or even Bluetooth earbuds. As long as the mic is close to your mouth, you’re golden.
3. Lighting – Let There Be Light!
Here’s some solid YouTube video production advice. If you can, face a window for some glorious natural light. But if your home office setup isn’t blessed with perfect lighting, two lights strategically placed can work wonders.
Instead of placing one directly in front of you (which, let’s be honest, can make you look like you’re reading a spooky campfire story), split them up. One light should be the main source on your face, and the other a bit softer, creating a bit of shadow for that artsy, professional look.
Pro tip: Avoid the dreaded harsh Walmart lighting effect! Get some diffusers on those lights. Your skin (and your clients) will thank you.
YouTube Video Production Tip: Keep Your Filming Space Tidy and Controlled
You’re selling more than just houses – you’re selling yourself. That means your filming space should reflect your professionalism.
Tidy up: If your desk or background is cluttered, clean it up before hitting record. You don’t want viewers distracted by the chaos behind you.
Avoid the wide-angle lens: The fishbowl effect (where everything looks curved and distorted) screams amateur. Keep your lines straight and your camera level.
Position matters: Make sure you aren’t covering up any cool artwork or decor with your head. Give yourself at least 6 feet between you and the wall to add depth to your shot. Oh, and try to avoid the “mugshot effect” – nobody likes that flat-against-the-wall look!
YouTube Video Production Tip: Create a Visually Interesting, On-Brand Background
Your background should be more than just “not messy.” If you’re an author, showcase your books. If your brand has specific colors, integrate them into your set. (By the way, my wall color is called Salty Dog – feel free to steal the idea if you’ve got silver hair and want to pop against a dark backdrop like me!)
And if you’re dying to use your phone’s wide-angle lens to make the room look bigger? Don’t. Just trust me on this one.
Quick Recap: Key YouTube Video Production Tips
Here’s a quick breakdown of what we’ve covered:
Tripod: Keep your phone steady.
Microphone: Get close to your mic for better audio.
Lighting: Use soft, diffused lighting to look your best.
Filming Space: Tidy up, maintain depth, and control your background.
Camera Setup: Use the rear-facing camera, avoid wide-angle lenses, and keep lines straight.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
At the end of the day, YouTube video production doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Focus on delivering valuable content that speaks to your audience, and the gear will fall into place.
Remember: It’s you they’re here to see – the real estate expert with the knowledge to guide them through their home-buying or selling journey.
So go ahead, grab your iPhone (or whatever camera you have handy), and start filming!
Ready to know more about YouTube video production?
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Karin Carr has been a REALTOR® since 2005 and real estate coach since 2018. Her YouTube videos have garnered more than 3.5 million views. She loves teaching real estate agents how to find real estate leads in a way that doesn’t require buying them from big corporations looking to put you out of business, or posting on social media all day just hoping to get a few likes and a couple of comments.
YouTube is Karin’s best method for attracting paying clients who see her value and happily hire (and pay) her to represent them in a real estate transaction. Coaching REALTORS is her true passion though and that’s where she spends the majority of her time these days. Her signature program, Video Boss Agent Academy, has helped thousands of real estate agents and mortgage professionals build businesses they love that are actually profitable.
Karin is the best selling author of YouTube for Real Estate Agents - Learn how to get free real estate leads and never cold call again.