Do most realtors take their own photos?

Many agents shoot some or all of their listings themselves, especially for faster turnaround and lower cost. The key is professional editing so the photos look professional.

Is it unprofessional for an agent to take listing photos?

Only if the photos look amateur. Level, well-lit, professionally edited photos look professional no matter who took them.

Should realtors take their own listing photos?

For most listings, yes, as long as the photos end up looking professional. Here's an honest breakdown of when shooting your own makes sense and when a photographer is still worth it.

Why more agents shoot their own

Speed. Photographers usually need 2 to 3 days' notice and deliver in 24 to 48 hours. Shooting yourself means you can shoot the day you get the listing.
Cost. A photographer typically runs $150 to $350 a listing, and twilight, staging, or video cost more. Across a year of listings, that adds up fast.
Control. You know the home's best angles, and you can reshoot the moment the seller finishes cleaning or the landscaping is done.
No scheduling. No finding a time that works for you, the photographer, and the seller.

The real risk: amateur-looking photos

The case against shooting your own was always quality. Tilted walls, dark rooms, blown-out windows and gray skies make a listing look cheap, and sellers notice. That's why the answer depends on editing. Phone photos that are professionally edited (balanced light, straight walls, blue sky) hold up next to a photographer's work. Unedited phone photos usually don't.

When to still hire a photographer

Luxury listings where the seller expects a full production.
Drone and aerial shots, which need a licensed drone pilot.
3D tours and floor plans, if your market expects them.

The middle path

Apps like Ziplist let you shoot the listing yourself on your iPhone, with guided capture and a level on every shot, then deliver professionally edited, MLS-ready photos in under 60 minutes for $39 a listing. You get the speed and cost of doing it yourself, with the finished look of a pro.