how to take 360 degree photo

How to Take a 360-Degree Photo: A Complete Guide for Photographers and Real Estate Agents

360-degree photography is changing how we view and interact with spaces. Whether you’re a photographer wanting to expand your portfolio or a real estate agent looking to create immersive property tours, learning how to capture 360-degree images is a valuable skill.

In this complete guide by www.threesixty.tours, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right gear to editing and publishing your photos. By the end, you’ll have the tools to create stunning, interactive 360-degree content that clients and audiences will love.

Let’s get started!

I. Introduction

In a world where digital content is king, visual storytelling has never been more important. A traditional photo shows one angle, while a 360-degree photo puts the viewer right in the middle of the scene.

That’s the magic of 360-degree photography. It allows users to look left, right, up, and down—giving them the feeling of being there in person. This is why it’s become a go-to tool for:

• Real estate agents
• Travel bloggers
• Event planners
• Educators

For photographers, it’s a way to offer new services. For real estate agents, it’s a powerful marketing tool that helps listings stand out and convert more leads. According to the National Association of Realtors, listings with virtual tours get 87% more views than those without.

In this guide, we’ll break down the process of creating 360-degree photos step by step. You’ll learn:

• What gear to use
• How to prep your shoot
• Tips for capturing high-quality images
• How to stitch and edit your photos

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, you’re in the right place.

And once your masterpiece is ready, platforms like www.threesixty.tours make it easy to share your work with clients and embed interactive tours into your website.

II. Understanding the Equipment

Before you start shooting, it’s important to understand the tools that make 360-degree photography possible. The equipment you choose will affect the quality of your images and how easy the process is.

A. Types of Equipment for 360-Degree Photography

There are three main ways to capture 360-degree images:

• 360-Degree Cameras: These cameras are built specifically for spherical photography. They usually have two or more ultra-wide lenses that capture the entire scene in one shot. The images are stitched together automatically. Top models include:
  • Ricoh Theta Z1
  • Insta360 ONE X2
  • GoPro MAX
• Smartphone Apps: Apps like Google Street View and Panorama 360 let you take 360-degree photos with your phone. They guide you through taking multiple images, which are then stitched together. This method is budget-friendly and easy to use, but may not deliver professional-level quality.
• DSLR Cameras with Panoramic Tripod Heads: Want the best possible image quality? A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a panoramic tripod head is your best bet. This setup gives you full control over exposure, focus, and composition. You’ll need to shoot multiple overlapping images and stitch them manually, but the results can be stunning. Brands like Nodal Ninja and Really Right Stuff offer excellent panoramic heads for this purpose.

B. Recommended Models and Features

When shopping for a 360 camera, look for:

• High resolution (at least 18MP)
• Good low-light performance
• HDR support
• RAW image capture
• App compatibility for remote control

The Ricoh Theta Z1 is a favorite among real estate pros for its image quality and user-friendly interface. If you’re a photographer focused on detail and dynamic range, a DSLR setup might be worth the extra effort.

C. Must-Have Accessories

No matter what camera you use, a few accessories can make a big difference:

• Tripod or monopod: Keeps your camera stable for sharp images.
• Remote shutter: Prevents camera shake.
• Leveling base: Ensures your camera is perfectly horizontal.
• Protective case: Protects your gear during transport and outdoor shoots.

Having the right gear sets you up for success. Once you’re equipped, it’s time to prepare your scene.

III. Preparing for the Shoot

Good 360-degree photos don’t happen by accident. Planning ahead ensures your images are clean, professional, and immersive.

A. Choosing the Right Location and Time

Pick a spot that benefits from a full view. For real estate, this could be a living room, kitchen, or backyard. For photographers, it might be a scenic overlook or museum.

Lighting matters. The best times to shoot are during the “golden hours”—just after sunrise or before sunset. These times offer soft, flattering light. Avoid shooting in harsh midday sun, which can cause overexposure and harsh shadows.

B. Lighting Tips

Lighting can make or break your image. Uneven lighting can lead to stitching issues like visible seams or color mismatches.

For indoor shoots:

• Turn on all lights to brighten the space evenly.
• Use additional lights if needed to eliminate dark corners.
• Avoid mixing light temperatures (e.g., daylight and tungsten).

If your camera supports HDR, use it. HDR captures a wider range of light and shadow, which is especially helpful in rooms with windows.

C. Composition Planning

Since 360-degree photos capture everything, make sure the space looks great from every angle:

• Declutter the area.
• Hide personal or distracting items.
• Stage the space to look inviting and clean.

Position the camera at eye level—around 5 feet (1.5 meters). Avoid placing it too close to walls or furniture to reduce distortion.

D. Setting Up Your Equipment

Place your camera on a tripod or monopod and make sure it’s level. Use a bubble level or built-in tool to double-check.

If you’re using a DSLR:

• Set your camera to manual mode.
• Lock in your exposure and white balance.
• Take a few test shots to check lighting and framing.

Preparation is the key to a smooth shoot and less editing later. Once you’re set up, it’s time to capture the image.

IV. Capturing the 360-Degree Photo

This is where the magic happens. Capturing a 360-degree photo can be quick or detailed, depending on your gear.

A. Using a 360-Degree Camera

This is the easiest method. Set your camera in the center of the space, make sure it’s level, and use a remote or app to take the photo.

Most 360 cameras stitch the image automatically. Just make sure you or your gear isn’t visible in the shot—unless that’s your intention.

B. Using a DSLR and Panoramic Head

This method takes more time but delivers superior quality:

• Mount your camera on a panoramic head.
• Rotate around the nodal point to prevent parallax errors.
• Take overlapping photos (30–50% overlap) horizontally and vertically.
• Keep your exposure and white balance settings consistent.

This method is ideal for high-end real estate listings or commercial photography.

C. Tips for a Smooth Capture

• Use a self-timer or remote to stay out of the frame.
• Avoid any movement in the scene—people walking, trees blowing, etc.
• Shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility.
• Take a few test shots to check exposure and framing.

D. Stabilization

For outdoor shots, use a monopod with a weighted base to prevent tipping. Some 360 cameras have built-in stabilization—turn it on if available.

Capturing the image is just one part of the process. Next comes editing and stitching.

V. Editing and Stitching 360-Degree Photos

Editing is where your photo truly becomes immersive. Whether your camera does it automatically or you’re stitching manually, post-processing is essential.

A. Stitching Software Options

Depending on your setup, you’ll need different tools:

• Insta360 Studio (for Insta360 cameras)
• Ricoh Theta Stitcher (for Ricoh models)
• PTGui (ideal for DSLR panoramas)
• Adobe Photoshop (for touch-ups)

These tools blend your images, align them properly, and create a seamless 360-degree view.

B. Editing Workflow

Follow these steps:

1. Import your photos into your stitching software.
2. Align and stitch them into a single panoramic image.
3. Adjust exposure, contrast, white balance, and color.
4. Use HDR blending if needed.
5. Export the final image in equirectangular format (JPEG or TIFF).

This format is compatible with most 360-viewers and virtual tour platforms like www.threesixty.tours.

C. Fixing Common Issues

• Stitching problems? Make sure you used enough overlap and rotated around the nodal point.
• Ghosting? Avoid moving objects. Use faster shutter speeds.
• Color inconsistency? Adjust white balance manually and use global color corrections.

With your image polished and ready, it’s time to share it with the world.

VI. Publishing Your 360-Degree Photo

Once your photo is ready, you’ll want to share it in a way that’s interactive and easy to access. This is where platforms like www.threesixty.tours come in.

A. Why Use a Virtual Tour Platform?

These platforms allow you to:

• Host and display your 360-degree photos online.
• Add interactive elements like hotspots, text, and audio.
• Embed virtual tours directly into your website or MLS listings.
• Share links with clients or on social media.

Using a platform like www.threesixty.tours makes your content more engaging and professional. It also saves time with easy drag-and-drop tools and integrations.

B. How to Upload and Share

Follow these steps:

1. Sign up for an account on www.threesixty.tours.
2. Upload your equirectangular image.
3. Add hotspots, info points, or navigation arrows.
4. Customize your tour with branding and descriptions.
5. Publish and share the link or embed it on your site.

It’s that simple. You now have a fully interactive 360-degree photo tour that’s ready to impress.

VII. Conclusion

360-degree photography is more than a cool trick—it’s a powerful way to tell stories, showcase spaces, and connect with audiences.

Let’s recap the key steps:

1. Choose the right equipment based on your needs.
2. Prepare your location with good lighting and thoughtful composition.
3. Capture your image using best practices.
4. Edit and stitch your photo for a polished result.
5. Upload and share using platforms like www.threesixty.tours.

Whether you’re a photographer looking to offer new services or a real estate agent wanting to stand out, 360-degree photography is a smart investment in your future.

So grab your gear, explore your surroundings, and start capturing the world in every direction. With tools like www.threesixty.tours, you’re just a few clicks away from creating immersive experiences your audience will never forget.

Want more tips on immersive photography? Check out this in-depth guide from PetaPixel on how to shoot professional 360 images or learn about the future of virtual tours from Matterport’s industry insights.

Now go out there and shoot your first 360-degree masterpiece!