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.
You can do dozens of things to create a buzz for a new listing: social media, staging (virtual or physical), professional photography and videography, and more. We recently sat down with Molly Edwards of HomeSmart and quizzed her on how she uses a cohort of professionals to make her listings stand out.
Video Transcript:
(:00 – Narrator): When professionally capturing real estate photography, what does it really take to transform a house into a home? What does it really take to sell a home quicker and for the highest possible price? How proficiently you proceed as a professional real estate photographer and successful real estate broker is primarily dependent upon your process technique and creative vision.
Let’s consider the three imperatives: process, technique and creative vision in the context of real estate photography and real estate marketing. In this presentation of professional teamwork, real estate photographer Tim Patterson of Salem Realty Media explains how he proceeds when capturing stunning real estate photography, and real estate broker Molly Edwards of HomeSmart Group Salem shares some of her best practices when developing and implementing her real estate marketing strategy.
First, we begin with the process. In real estate photography and real estate marketing, the process is a systematic series of steps designed to transform a property into an appealing home. This involves organized planning, coordination, and execution, from understanding client needs and property features to the final delivery of marketing materials. Tasks include scheduling, property assessment, photography, sessions, editing, and the development of marketing strategies. A well-structured process ensures efficiency and consistency, contributing to the successful presentation of a property as a desirable home.
(2:09 – Molly) I find integrating professional photography and videography in my marketing plan is essential to bringing in the most interest in a property and helping my sellers get the most value they can when selling their home. 70% of home buyers are finding their next property online.So it’s very important for me to put their home in the best light possible from the get-go. So that means having the professionals take care of the photography, the drone footage, the videography so that people can get a real sense of what that home looks like from outside to inside the neighborhood that it sits in and so forth. It’s so important.
(3:00 – Tim) I’ve owned my own business for over a dozen years, and my philosophy has always been, if the client looks good, I look good, no matter who that client is, whether it’s a marketing person for a big company or whether it’s an agent that’s trying to sell a new home. So I wanna make sure they look good. And the way I do that is focus on what makes the home special when I’m shooting real estate photography.
(3:22 – Narrator) Next, we consider technique in real estate photography and real estate marketing technique is the artful application of methods to showcase properties optimally. This involves mastering the technical aspects of photography, such as composition and light and utilizing post processing for effective feature highlighting. Beyond photography, technique extends to understanding the target audience, selecting suitable promotional channels and leveraging digital tools for maximum effect. Successful real estate professionals, especially photographers, must adeptly balance technical finesse with strategic marketing elements to create compelling visual content that resonates with potential buyers.
(4:15 – Molly) I have noticed that visual tools such as floor plans and video walkthroughs have become so important, especially post-COVID. And during COVID, we saw a lot of people moving during that time and a lot of people starting to be able to work from home. So location, where they were living, didn’t necessarily need to be close to their workplace. So we’ve seen a lot of migration during that time and we’ve seen a lot of people buying from out of state. And depending on their travel, what they’re able to do, not everybody is able to get into a property to tour it in person. So having floor plans and video walkthroughs is a very important piece of the marketing plan so that more people can see that property and get a sense of what it feels like without even having to step foot into it.
(5:08 – Tim) In my work with real estate agents over the last 18 months or so, I find that I ask them, ‘what do you like?’ And answers are not the same as you might imagine. But what’s kind of common is that most people like a very straight up and down vertical line and very straight horizontal lines. So that’s one of the goals and you have to set up your camera and there’s a couple of things, there’s a leveler on the camera that I always set and then, I want to make sure that I’ve got the, the height right. And it’s a, uh, my waist height or a little bit, uh, more than that, that’s the perfect height. Too high and everything looks distorted, too low, everything looks distorted. So that’s kinda how I start the setup of taking pictures at a, at a home.
(5:46 – Narrator) And finally, we focus upon creative vision. Creative vision in real estate photography and real estate marketing is the artful perspective that transcends the mere capture of physical attributes. It involves making imaginative choices to telling a compelling story about a particular property. Photographer Tim Patterson and Broker Molly Edwards, utilized creative vision to highlight a living spaces, warmth, showcase unique property characteristics, and convey an aspirational lifestyle to potential buyers. This distinct creative approach adds a memorable quality to marketing materials, setting them apart in the competitive real estate markets.
(6:36 – Molly) I try to bring a higher level of professionalism to all of the work that I do, whether it be with a listing or with a buyer. But on my listing side, in particular, I like to pull on my team and part of my team is a professional photographer and videographer as well as an interior designer/stager. I find that using are pulling on these professionals to help bring everything togetherrteally elevates the listing itself and helps it sell for more. So I will bring in a interior designer to walk through the home at my expense and go through room by room to give suggestions and make tweaks to how the home is set up currently. I can also then hire that same designer to bring in supplemental staging pieces that will photograph really well and make the home appeal to a wider audience. So I feel like doing those things and having those team members to help boost my, what I do, the product that I put out really helps my seller in the long run.
(7:49 – Tim) I wanna make sure I ask the agent if there’s anything special about the house and often, especially in older houses, there are details such as door handles or, or cupboard pulls that are, are unique to that house very old, for instance, but they look great on camera. Other things might be uh a backyard barbecue or something like that or a built in pool. Those types of things. Uh They wanna make sure they call them out and get a good picture of those as well. So I make sure to ask the agent to give them what they really want to serve them the best as I can.
(8:22- Molly) I always look for potential obstacles that a listing may present when I’m marketing it to the public. So a recent example of a property that presented with some obstacles up front was a beautiful home that was located on a busy street. It was located on a busy street with traffic at all hours. Plus it had a very steep driveway. Both of those things could be potential barriers to selling a home. So it just makes it that much more important that I focus on all of the positives that the home has to offer and the potential that it holds for potential buyers. So in that case, what I did was I pulled on my interior designer right away. We emptied the house of the owner’s contents. We brought in beautiful staging materials that would appeal to a mass audience. And then of course, I used my professional photographer to take top-notch photos and video and that really just helps market the property and gets more buyers in to see it. If people just get stopped at an obstacle and don’t give the property the opportunity that it deserves, then it’s going to be so difficult to sell that home for what it’s really truly worth. I felt like bringing in staging material curtains, rugs, different textiles, really helped dampen the noise of the street traffic and so forth. And I think that helped quite a bit. We had steady showings, steady interest and were able to sell the home successfully, despite what could have been something that deterred buyers.
(10:16 – Tim) Every home is different. Some homes which are great are unoccupied and staged, and those are the easiest homes to shoot. But there are certainly homes, uh, that I’ve shot that, uh, the family was still there. The dog was running around, kids were running around and they’re, they’re certainly aware that there’s a photographer there. But, you know, and I’ve been to homes where they’ve, uh, ready to move out, there’s plastic bags everywhere. So I’ve had to spend time moving everything out of a shot and then taking a shot and then moving everything back so I can take another shot. So every home is unique and it’s just I think flexibility about making sure you get the best shot you can under the circumstances is probably the challenge that a lot of real estate photographers and if they can manage that, then they’re going to do a good job.
(10:59 – Narrator) The synergy of process technique and creative vision is key to transforming a house into a home through real estate photography and real estate marketing, professional, real estate photographer Tim Patterson’s meticulous process seamlessly aligns with real estate Broker Molly Edward’s strategic marketing, emphasizing that success hinges on their collaborative efforts. This dynamic partnership, rooted in the photographer’s creative lens and the broker’s market expertise, not only enhances individual proficiency but elevates the industry’s impact. Recognizing the paramount importance of teamwork, these two professionals collectively create a comprehensive and immersive experience, turning properties into emotionally resident homes that speak to the aspirations of prospective buyers.
Thanks to Tony at Aerial Northwest for the video production and narration and for being one of the finest drone pilots around. And thanks to Molly Edwards for putting up with us. 😁
Navigating the world of real estate photography can be a complex yet essential part of a real estate agent’s toolkit. Understanding the nuances of photography rights for real estate agents is fundamental, especially when it comes to differentiating between purchasing licensing rights and acquiring full ownership of photographs. As an agent, collaborating with a professional photographer like Salem Realty Media can elevate your listings, but it’s vital to comprehend the legalities of the images you use. This guide will delve into the key aspects of these rights, ensuring your marketing efforts are both effective and legally sound.
What You’re Really Buying: A License, Not the Photo
When you collaborate with a photographer, you’re entering into a world of licensing rights. Our company’s licensing agreement is a prime example. It states: “[Client], who purchased a license for these photos, is hereby authorized to a worldwide, limited, fully-paid license to use said photography for the purposes of marketing [Full Address] for as long as [Client] represents the property. This license does not grant or constitute a transfer of ownership for any intellectual property rights, which are all explicitly held by Tim Patterson and Salem Realty Media.” This means you, the agent, are granted extensive rights to use the photos for marketing the property.
However, it’s essential to understand that this is not a transfer of ownership. The intellectual property rights remain firmly with the photographer. This distinction is significant compared to the corporate world, where companies often pay a premium to own the full rights to photographs, including intellectual property.
Why This Matters to You as a Real Estate Agent
This licensing agreement empowers you to use the images for all your marketing needs concerning the specific property. Whether it’s for listing on websites, brochures, or social media, you have the freedom to showcase your property in its best light. However, the limitation comes into play if you wish to use these images beyond the property you represent. Want to use that stunning living room shot for a general marketing campaign? That’s where you’d need to renegotiate your rights with the photographer.
The Perks of Licensing: Cost-Effectiveness and Flexibility
Choosing a licensing arrangement, as most real estate agents do, offers cost-effectiveness. You’re paying for exactly what you need – the right to use high-quality images for your current listings. This approach also provides flexibility, as you can negotiate different licensing terms for different properties, adapting as your portfolio evolves.
Embracing Flexibility and Cooperation: The Salem Realty Media Approach
It’s important to remember that the world of real estate photography is as varied as the properties we showcase. While many photographers, including myself, adhere to the standard guidelines of licensing, it’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Every photography and media agency, like us at Salem Realty Media, brings its own flavor to the table, with unique nuances in their agreements.
We believe in a collaborative approach, especially when misunderstandings arise. Our philosophy isn’t to engage in drawn-out disputes; such battles rarely have clear winners. Instead, we focus on open communication and education. We’re here to ensure that both agents and photographers fully understand their rights and responsibilities. This cooperative spirit underpins our mission: to provide breathtaking visuals that help agents represent their properties in the best possible light. After all, in the vibrant world of real estate, fostering strong, understanding partnerships is key to illuminating every home’s story.
Final Thoughts
In the fast-paced world of real estate, effective marketing is your lifeline. Understanding the nuances of your agreement with your photographer ensures you can use your visual assets effectively while respecting legal boundaries. Remember, while you may not own the photographs, your license is a powerful tool in your real estate marketing arsenal, allowing you to present your properties compellingly and professionally.
How do you stand out in a crowded social media space? By being consistent and by creating engaging and informative content. Here are seven social media real estate video tips that can help you connect with potential buyers and offer them valuable insights:
1. Pre-Hire Intelligence
In these videos, guide your audience through hiring contractors and real estate professionals. Equip them with a list of critical questions to ask to ensure they make informed decisions. This kind of content empowers your audience and establishes your role as a trusted advisor.
2. Landscape Love
Curb appeal is crucial in real estate. Create videos offering landscaping tips and outdoor decor ideas to enhance a property’s exterior. Show before-and-after transformations, and share easy, budget-friendly ways to make a great first impression.
3. Entryway Envy
First impressions matter; the entryway is where potential buyers get their first real taste of a home. Share design tips to create inviting, stylish entryways. Highlight simple changes like color schemes, lighting, and decor that can make a significant difference.
4. Cautionary Tales
Share real-life stories of homeowners who encountered obstacles or made costly mistakes when selling their homes. Use these cautionary tales to educate your audience about common pitfalls and how to avoid them. This approach not only provides valuable lessons but also makes for engaging storytelling.
5. Budget Staging Secrets
Staging a home can significantly impact its appeal. Create videos that teach viewers how to beautifully stage their homes without a hefty price tag. Focus on key elements like decluttering, furniture arrangement, and adding small but impactful touches that enhance the home’s appeal.
6. Local Charms
Feature the unique aspects of neighborhoods and local businesses in your area. This content helps potential buyers visualize living in that community and highlights your expertise and connections in the area. It’s a great way to support local businesses while showcasing the neighborhood’s charm.
7. DIY Done Right
DIY projects are hugely popular. Provide step-by-step guides for simple home improvement projects that homeowners can undertake. These videos can range from painting tips to minor repairs. This content is practical and encourages viewers to creatively engage with their own spaces.
Integrating these video ideas into your social media strategy will provide your audience with a mix of educational, inspirational, and engaging content. Remember, successful real estate marketing is about building relationships and trust; these videos are a great way to connect with your audience on a deeper level.
In the dynamic world of real estate, leveraging social media for marketing is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Here are seven innovative video ideas to engage your audience, enhance your brand, and showcase your expertise.
1. Home Buying Masterclass
Take your audience on an educational journey with a “Home Buying Masterclass” series. In these videos, share your insider knowledge of negotiation tactics and smart buying strategies. Such content not only empowers potential buyers but also positions you as a trustworthy source of real estate wisdom.
2. Virtual Open Houses
The power of video tours is undeniable in today’s market. Create immersive virtual open houses for your listings. Highlight the unique features, layout, and potential of each property. This approach not only captures the essence of the home but also reaches a broader audience than traditional open houses.
3. Maintenance Mastery
Homeowners are always looking for ways to enhance their property’s longevity. Share your expertise in “Maintenance Mastery” videos, offering tips on regular upkeep, seasonal maintenance, and small fixes. This content is invaluable for helping homeowners protect and increase the value of their investment.
4. Safety First
Safety is a paramount concern for many homeowners. Create content around innovative security solutions and disaster preparedness. Discussing topics like smart alarms, fire safety protocols, and emergency planning not only educates but also demonstrates your commitment to your client’s well-being beyond the sale.
5. Eco-Friendly Living
Sustainability is more than a trend; it’s a lifestyle. Educate your audience on eco-friendly living with tips on energy-saving practices and green purchases. Highlight how simple changes can lead to significant environmental and financial benefits, resonating with the growing eco-conscious market.
6. Tech-Enhanced Homes
Delve into the world of smart homes and the latest tech gadgets in your videos. Explain how home automation offers convenience, efficiency, and sometimes even cost savings. This content is particularly appealing to a tech-savvy audience and those interested in modern living.
7. Value-Boosting Renovations
Finally, guide your viewers on value-boosting home renovations. Discuss which improvements offer the best return on investment and how to approach these projects. This type of content is incredibly valuable for those looking to sell or increase their home’s market value.
By incorporating these video ideas into your social media strategy, you’ll not only engage your audience but also reinforce your position as a knowledgeable and resourceful real estate professional. Remember, the key to successful real estate marketing is not just selling properties but also building lasting relationships and trust with your audience.
What would a high producer have to say about success?
Let’s say you’ve been invited to a presentation along with 99 other local real estate agents, and the speaker is someone that you’ve admired for year for their ability to garner more listings and their success in closing deals. This agent is introduced, and as you sip your coffee and listen intently, you start taking notes.
Imagine what this presentation would be like.
Good morning, everyone, and thank you for that warm welcome!
As I stand here today, I’m reminded of my own early days in real estate – the excitement, the challenges, and the relentless quest for that all-important listing. It’s an incredible journey, and I’m here to share with you some of the insights and strategies that have helped me along the way.
My goal today is to help you unlock the potential of your real estate career. We’ll dive into the art and science of getting more listings and turning those listings into successful sales. Let’s embark on this journey together, where each listing is not just a transaction but a story of someone’s dream home or a new beginning.
Twenty minutes later, the presentation is over, and you’ve made a few pages of notes. When you return to your office and transfer your notes to your computer, organize them into the five specific areas the speaker addressed and the top takeaways. These are your challenges for the year ahead.
1. Building a Robust Online Presence
– Leverage social media to showcase properties and share success stories.
– Develop a user-friendly website with a portfolio, client testimonials, and a blog.
– Utilize SEO strategies to enhance visibility in local real estate searches.
2. Networking and Community Involvement
– Engage in community events and local organizations to build relationships.
– Collaborate with local businesses for mutual promotional opportunities.
– Maintain regular contact with past clients for referrals and repeat business.
3. Effective Property Marketing Techniques
– Use high-quality photography and virtual tours to make listings stand out.
– Create compelling property descriptions and utilize diverse advertising platforms.
– Offer unique open house experiences to attract and engage potential buyers.
4. Understanding Market Trends and Local Insights
– Stay updated on local market trends, like the dynamics of Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
– Tailor your selling strategy to the current market conditions and buyer preferences.
– Use data-driven insights to price properties competitively and attract serious buyers.
5. Mastering the Art of Negotiation and Closing Deals
– Develop strong communication skills to effectively negotiate with buyers and sellers.
– Understand the psychological aspects of buying and selling real estate.
– Foster trust and transparency throughout the transaction process for smoother closings.
Remember, in real estate, it’s not just about selling properties; it’s about creating connections, building trust, and helping dreams come true. Let’s set the stage for your success and make every listing a stepping stone to greater achievements.
