In this digital age, visual impressions really count, especially in real estate. Having high-quality photos is absolutely essential for marketing properties. And the popularity of social media has raised the bar for agents to produce consistently eye-catching images of their listings. Professional photography is often a must these days for high-end properties, but most agents are wearing the photographer hat for a majority of their listings. This raises the question of whether expensive camera equipment or professional photo editing software is necessary in order to compete. The answer is no. In fact, most smart phones will take high-quality photos that can be used in both print and online marketing. And with the right app, editing and enhancing the photos is quick and easy and can be done right from your phone.

Afterlight ($.99, In-App Purchases Available)

• Available for iPhone, iPad, Windows Phone 8 and Windows 8.1 (tablets/PCs), this impressive photo editing app will allow you to easily transform your photos into works of art, or simply make a few touch-ups with ease. Some highlights include:
• 15 unique adjustment tools, such as exposure, brightness and tone.
• 74 filters and 78 textures to create stunning photo effects. The app also includes a feature called "Fusion Filters," which allow you to combine various tools, filters and textures to make your own custom filters that can be saved and used again.
• Cropping and transforming tools to make touching up your photos a snap. Use one of 15 different preset cropping settings, rotate, flip or straighten your images with the touch of a button.
• 128 unique frames that can be added for extra wow factor.

Autodesk Pixlr (Free)

Available for iPhone, iPad and Android, this comprehensive photo editor not only has the basic photo editing tools (crop, rotate, resize, adjust, etc.), but also features an arsenal of fun effects, overlays and borders to unleash your creativity. And the best part is - it's free! Here are a few of the app's countless features:

• Custom photo collages
• One-touch auto fix to adjust color and lighting issues
• Red-eye remover and teeth whitening tool
• Filters and overlays for dramatic effect
• Overlay text and/or graphics
• Favorites list of tools and effects for easy access
• Social media and e-mail sharing directly from the app