What's the most important element of your online property listings? Not surprisingly, it's photos of the home. An eye tracking study from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia found that 95 percent of online home shoppers viewed the first photo of the home. They're not just passing glances either, consumers examined those photos for an average of 20 seconds each.

The majority of these first photos are what's known as the "primary exterior shot." The quality of this photo constitutes the first impression buyers have of your listing--and your best chance of converting buyers into leads. Here are five tips to make the most of this crucial shot:

1. Increase camera elevation

A little height can make a big difference! Shooting from an elevated position can greatly enhance your primary exterior photos. This is known as aerial photography. It gives your shots a new perspective that's great for portraits of property grounds. If you don't have access to aerial equipment, try shooting your primary exterior shot from a ladder or a nearby hill. Some agents have even been known to climb atop their vehicle to take this shot!

2. Take three-quarter shots

Photos taken at a slight angle, rather than straight-on, tend to make stronger and more dynamic images. Again, this is all a matter of perspective. Changing your angle can let you include different property features, like landscaping. If you're unsure, take multiple shots from multiple places and choose the best later, during the editing process.