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Are you looking for the best point and shoot camera for real estate photography?

Are you tired of carrying heavy cameras or dealing with complicated settings when shooting real estate? Look no further! 

In this post, we’ve listed the 5 best point and shoot cameras to help save the day. Compact enough to fit in your pocket, you can take them anywhere and capture amazing property photos without the need for additional lenses. Plus, they come with a built-in flash for low-light situations.

Let’s start by taking a closer look at point and shoot cameras and whether they are worth it or not.

Are Point and Shoot Cameras Worth It?

best point and shoot camera for real estate photography

Yes. When it comes to capturing properties and other moments without the hassle, having a great point and shoot camera is a game-changer. 

First of all, you don’t need to lug around heavy equipment or get tangled in complicated settings. Despite not being as good as a professional DSLR camera for shooting real estate, these pocket-sized wonders are always by your side, ready to snap properties on the go. 

Plus, with built-in flashes, they’ve got you covered, even when the world goes dark. 

Sure, they may not be your go-to for beginner photography, but when it comes to real estate photography, travel, or capturing your kids’ priceless moments, these top 5 point and shoot cameras get the job done.

From budget-friendly options to waterproof models, the best point and shoot cameras have got your photography needs covered. 

And don’t worry about newer models – the older ones mentioned here still shine brightly as top choices!

Top 5 Point and Shoot Cameras for Real Estate Photography

Here are our top 5 picks of point and shoot cameras that do the job when shooting properties, as well as capturing other precious moments.

1. Sony RX100 VII

best point and shoot camera for real estate photography

Overview: The Sony RX100 VII is our #1 recommendation for the best point and shoot camera for real estate photography. It’s basically like a Swiss Army knife for point-and-shoot cameras.

Even though it comes at a higher price, it delivers excellent image quality with an impressive 1-inch sensor. 

SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES

  • Camera type: Mirrorless 
  • Body Type: Point and Shoot
  • Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS Sensor
  • Max Focal Length:  200 mm (Full-Frame Equivalent) 
  • Image Stabilization: Yes, Digital
  • Video: UHD 4K30p Video With HLG S-Log3 Gammas
  • Weight: 2.4 Pounds
  • Connectivity: USB

With its stacked design, it offers blazing-fast 20 fps burst shooting and minimal rolling shutter distortion in videos. 

And that’s not all – this camera comes packed with extra features like a pop-up electronic viewfinder and a pop-up flash.

While the zoom lens may not be the sharpest or fastest, it covers a versatile 24-200 mm equivalent focal range, providing flexibility in framing and allowing you to capture distant subjects effortlessly. 

Combine that with its fantastic autofocus system, and you’ve got yourself one of the most feature-rich point-and-shoots available. 

It’s no surprise the Sony RX100 series is now on its seventh iteration and still going strong. And if the price isn’t within your budget, you can always find older generations at more affordable prices in the used market.

Price: $1,319.95

2. Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II

best point and shoot camera for real estate photography

Overview: Looking for a point-and-shoot camera that won’t break the bank? The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is another excellent camera that’s a bit more affordable than the Sony RX100 VII. 

SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES

  • Camera type: Mirrorless 
  • Body Type: Point and Shoot
  • Sensor: 20.2MP 1″ Stacked CMOS Sensor 
  • Max Focal Length: 119 mm (Full-Frame Equivalent) 
  • Image Stabilization: Yes, Digital
  • Video: UHD 4K30p and Full HD 120p Video
  • Weight: 1.45 Pounds
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is another fantastic choice, offering an impressive blend of performance and features at an affordable price point. 

Equipped with a 1-inch sensor like the Sony RX100 VII, it delivers solid image quality that competes well with larger-sensor compacts. 

Plus, its versatile built-in zoom lens covers a focal length range of 24-120mm, perfect for capturing a wide variety of subjects.

In addition, the camera is also incredibly portable and features a convenient pop-up viewfinder, ideal for bright sunny days when the screen visibility is compromised. 

While its subject tracking may not be flawless, the autofocus still performs admirably in most situations. And if comfort matters to you, you’ll appreciate the camera’s small handgrip, which happens to be one of the most comfortable among point-and-shoot cameras we’ve tested.

With the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II, you can enjoy excellent performance, compelling features, and outstanding ergonomics, all without breaking the bank.

Price: $1,079.95

3. Panasonic LUMIX ZS80

best point and shoot camera for real estate photography

Overview: Our third choice of best point and shoot camera for real estate photography is the Panasonic LUMIX ZS80.

Overall, this camera is one of the best budget-friendly point and shoot cameras we’ve tested, and offers a lot of value for its price. 

SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES

  • Camera type: Mirrorless 
  • Body Type: Point and Shoot
  • Sensor: 1/2.3 Inch 20. 3MP MOS High Resolution 
  • Max Focal Length: 720 mm (Full-Frame Equivalent) 
  • Image Stabilization: Yes, Digital
  • Video: QFHD 4K Video in 3840×2160 at 30P
  • Weight: 0.75 Pounds
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

While its image quality may not be as impressive, especially in low light situations due to its smaller sensor, this camera makes up for it with its portability, user-friendly controls, and an array of extra features. 

With functionalities like Post Focus and Focus Stacking, you can easily adjust the focus of your captured images after the fact. Additionally, the presence of a viewfinder aids in composing shots on bright days. 

But the true star of the show is its zoom lens. The Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 boasts an impressive zoom range, allowing you to capture detailed shots of distant subjects or wider-angle shots such as interior property photos and landscapes. 

Furthermore, the battery life is decent, and it even supports 4K video recording, albeit with a slight crop. 

Overall, if you’re seeking an affordable point-and-shoot camera with ample zoom capabilities, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 is a fantastic option.

Price: $447.99

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4. Sony ZV-1

Sony ZV-1

Overview: Fourth on our list, the Sony ZV-1 is designed especially for vlogging and video but works for real estate photography as well.

This small and lightweight camera offers features that you won’t find on traditional point and shoot cameras.

SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES

  • Camera type: Mirrorless 
  • Body Type: Point and Shoot
  • Sensor: 20.1MP Stacked Back Illuminated 1” Exmor RS CMOS Sensor W/ DRAM
  • Max Focal Length: 70 mm (Full-Frame Equivalent) 
  • Image Stabilization: Yes, Digital
  • Video: Pro Video Functions Incl. HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) and S-Log3/2
  • Weight: 10.4 Ounces
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

As mentioned, the Sony ZV-1 is a remarkable camera for video. Although it lacks a viewfinder, it makes up for it with a fully articulated screen. 

Not to mention, it also comes with a detachable windscreen, minimizing ambient noise for clearer audio. 

One standout feature of the ZV-1 is its autofocus performance. It excels in this area and even includes a special ‘Product Showcase’ mode that automatically adjusts focus to objects in the frame. This makes it an ideal choice when you want your subject to be in sharp focus at all times.

The only downside is the battery life, especially when recording in 4k. Extended recording sessions may lead to overheating, so keep that in mind. 

However, considering its optical stabilization and affordability, when compared to the newer Sony ZV-1 II, the original ZV-1 remains a top-notch option for any video and photography needs.

Price: $648

5. Panasonic LX15 / LX10 

Panasonic LX15 / LX10 

Overview: Looking for a point and shoot camera that takes your picture quality a notch up from a camera phone? Meet the Panasonic LX15 (aka LX10 in some areas).

Sporting a 1-inch 20MP sensor, it delivers impeccable performance.

SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES

  • Camera type: Mirrorless 
  • Body Type: Point and Shoot
  • Sensor: 1-Inch 20.1-Megapixel MOS Sensor
  • Max Focal Length: 24-72 mm 3X Zoom LEICA DC VARIO-SU Millimeter ILUX Lens
  • Image Stabilization: Yes, Digital
  • Video: 4K QFHD 
  • Weight: 0.68 Pounds
  • Connectivity: USB, HDMI

The Panasonic LX15 lacks a built-in EVF, which may disappoint some users, and its sleek body doesn’t offer the sturdiest grip. 

However, the responsive touchscreen is fantastic, and the dual control rings provide a delightful shooting experience. Plus, its 24-72mm lens boasts a wide aperture range of f/1.4 to f/2.8.

In summary, this compact gem strikes the perfect balance between features, performance, and affordability. 

It fits in your pocket, suits beginners, and satisfies even the most demanding photographers. 

Price: $597.99

FAQ

Can you use a point and shoot camera for real estate photography?

While it is theoretically possible to use a point and shoot camera for real estate photography, DSLR cameras are the preferred choice. These cameras offer photographers the utmost flexibility, ease of use, and a wide range of settings options. 

Conversely, point and shoot cameras, also known as compact cameras, lack the ability to adjust settings, limiting their suitability for real estate photography.

Are mirrorless cameras suitable for professional needs?

Yes. Mirrorless models are very popular among many professional photographers including real estate, travel, and landscape photographers.

What’s more important: the camera or the lens?

Choosing a lens over a camera can make all the difference when it comes to real estate photography. Even if you opt for an entry-level DSLR, using quality lenses will help ensure your shots turn out just right!

What focal length is best for real estate photography?

As a general rule for focal length, anything between 12mm and 35mm will provide good photos. If you can, opt for a lens in the 22–24mm range, which provides an even balance of foreground and background in your photos.

Why should you avoid taking real estate photos with your smartphone?

Smartphones are getting better and better but they still don’t capture the crisp, captivating photos a DSLR or mirrorless camera can. Their “zooms” are also cropping photos, making them grainy and pixelated. 

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With our expert real estate photo editing service, you can automate your workflow and save valuable time. In other words, it allows you to spend more time shooting properties and less time stuck in post-processing.

Our skilled photo editors can help with the following issues:

  • Improper exposure levels
  • Harsh shadows, lack of light, etc.
  • Blurred images that were taken without a tripod
  • Images that need cropping or other effects
  • Lawn greening and sky replacements
  • Twilight and day-to-dusk editing
  • Clutter and object removal
  • Line and angle corrections
  • And much more!

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We hope this blog post helped make your decision about choosing the best point and shoot camera for real estate photography a bit easier. If you found this post useful, you may also want to check out the following resources:

Stina Pettersson

Professional Blogger

Stina is an entrepreneur, digital marketer, and professional blogger who's passionate about real estate photo editing, being outdoors with her pup, and sweaty gym sessions. She loves the written word and has been writing for publications like Forbes and Thrive Global. Originally from Sweden, she's called South Florida her home since 2013.

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