In the dynamic world of real estate, captivating aerial imagery has become a cornerstone for showcasing properties. Integrating drone photography into your marketing strategy as a real estate agent can significantly elevate your listings, offering potential buyers a unique perspective and a comprehensive view of the property. However, the key to reaping the benefits of drone imagery lies in choosing the right drone pilot.
Here’s a guide to help you vet potential drone pilots effectively.
1. Certification and Compliance
Start by ensuring the drone pilot is FAA-certified. In the U.S., commercial drone pilots must have a Remote Pilot Certificate under the FAA’s Part 107 regulation. This certification is not just a formality; it demonstrates the pilot’s understanding of airspace regulations, safety practices, and operational requirements. Verify their certification and inquire about their understanding of local airspace restrictions, especially in areas with complex regulations like the Willamette Valley, Oregon, known for its proximity to multiple airports.
2. Portfolio and Experience
Experience matters. Review the pilot’s portfolio to assess their expertise in real estate photography. Look for variety in their work – different property types, landscapes, and architectural styles. Please pay attention to how well they capture the essence of each property and the surrounding area. An experienced drone pilot should provide a compelling narrative of the property, showcasing its best features from angles that ground-level photography can’t achieve.
Aerial photos show a dramatic view of the property in context with its surroundings.
3. Equipment and Capabilities
The quality of the drone and camera significantly affects the final output. Inquire about the type of drone and camera the pilot uses. Look for high-resolution cameras capable of capturing 4K video and high-quality stills. Additionally, consider their ability to shoot in various lighting conditions crucial for capturing properties at their most appealing times, like the golden hour.
4. Insurance and Liability
Ensure the drone pilot has liability insurance specifically for drone operations. This is crucial to protect yourself and the property owner from potential damages or accidents during the shoot. A professional drone operator should have no issue providing proof of insurance.
5. Communication and Professionalism
Effective communication is critical. The pilot should be able to understand your specific needs and translate them into stunning visuals. Their professionalism extends beyond flying skills; it includes punctuality, responsiveness, and the ability to work under varying conditions.
6. Creativity and Customization
Each property is unique, and the drone footage should reflect this. A skilled drone pilot can offer creative suggestions and customize their approach to highlight the unique features of each property. Whether capturing the expanse of a rural property in the Willamette Valley or the intricate details of an urban dwelling, their creativity can make a significant difference.
7. Testimonials and References
Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for references or testimonials from previous clients, especially other real estate agents. Hearing about others’ experiences can provide insights into the pilot’s reliability and quality of work.
Finally…
In conclusion, the right drone pilot can transform your real estate listings, offering breathtaking views that captivate potential buyers. Focusing on these best practices ensures that your aerial imagery meets and exceeds expectations, setting your properties apart in a competitive market.
Choosing the right real estate photographer is crucial in showcasing properties effectively. Often, real estate agents miss asking some key questions that can greatly impact the quality and effectiveness of the photographs. Here are the top five questions that are often overlooked but essential when hiring a new real estate photographer.
1. What is Your Post-Processing Workflow?
While many agents inquire about the shooting process, they often overlook the equally important post-processing phase. Ask about the photographer’s editing process, including their approach to color correction, exposure adjustments, and handling features like window views and shadows. Understanding their post-processing techniques will give you insight into the final look of your property images.
2. Can You Provide Examples of Different Lighting Conditions?
Photographers usually have a portfolio, but it might not cover a wide range of lighting scenarios. Ask for examples of their work in various lighting conditions, such as low light, bright sunlight, and mixed lighting. This will give you a better understanding of how they handle challenging light situations and maintain consistency in image quality.
3. How Do You Handle Tight Spaces or Unique Architectural Features?
Real estate encompasses a variety of properties, from compact apartments to large estates with unique architectural elements. It’s important to know how a photographer approaches such diverse spaces. Ask how they maximize small areas or capture the essence of unique architectural features. Their approach can significantly influence the appeal of your listings.
4. What is Your Turnaround Time?
Timing is crucial in real estate. While agents often ask about availability, they sometimes forget to discuss turnaround time. Knowing how quickly you can expect to receive the edited photos helps in planning listings and marketing strategies. It’s also worth discussing the process for rush jobs or tight deadlines.
5. How Do You Ensure Property Safety During a Shoot?
This question is especially pertinent now. Inquire about the photographer’s measures to ensure property safety, particularly in the context of ongoing health concerns. Understanding their approach to safety and respect for the property can be crucial for homeowner peace of mind.
Conclusion
Hiring a real estate photographer is more than just finding someone with a camera and a drone. It’s about understanding their complete process, from handling various lighting conditions and architectural challenges to post-processing and safety protocols. By asking these often-overlooked questions, you can ensure a more informed decision, leading to high-quality photographs that effectively market your properties. Whether showcasing a cozy bungalow or a sprawling estate, these questions can help you find the right photographer to bring out the best in your listings.
I was recently contacted to shoot a 60-second video for Harmony Communities’ Salem Green Estates, a peaceful 55+ community in NE Salem. The team found me through Bark.com and requested drone footage highlighting the beautiful neighborhood.
My first visit was in late May, where I captured several short aerial videos and a variety of still photos. I put together a draft video, but after reviewing the footage, they mentioned the property wasn’t quite ready—particularly the pool, which needed some attention to look its best on camera.
In early July, I returned to Salem Green Estates for another round of filming, spending about an hour capturing fresh drone footage and stills. After I shared a second draft video, I asked for feedback on the visuals, text, and titles. After a couple of email exchanges, we fine-tuned the details, and I was able to deliver a final version they were thrilled with. Once they approved it, I rendered the video in full resolution.
It was a great experience working with the team at Salem Green Estates—such nice people—and I enjoyed capturing the welcoming vibe of this lovely community. It’s always rewarding to be part of a project that highlights what makes a place special!
