Richard Weisser has an excellent featured post on Digital SLR cameras, compared to the more common point and shoot.  If you haven't seen it take a look at Richard's post here.

I also believe that the most commonly used camera for taking real estate pictures is the point and shoot. No data to prove it, just experience.  Since room pictures are being used more today than ever, it is critical that the pictures posted on the internet are the best they can be. Our MLS allows us to place 30 pictures on each listing.

Here is a quick test I did this morning with two different cameras. Both of them are 8 mega pixel but one is a point and shoot and the other is a Digital SLR with a wide angle lens, 11 - 18.  Forget the color and lighting for a moment because this was just a quick shooting for angle only. Keep in mind I was standing in the same place when I took both pictures.

The amount of the room shown by the point and shoot (first picture) is what I see frequently in MLS photos. What a difference when you look at the same room in the second photo.

Of course, some point and shoot cameras have better lenses than others. That's something to take into consideration if you're thinking of replacing your camera any time soon. Even so, I don't believe it will ever be possible for a point and shoot to be able to get the wide angle perspective of a SLR camera.

I understand that not everyone is willing to sink the investment in a camera with a wide angle lens. That's fine. An alternative to showcase your listings may be to hire a local photographer instead.