Realtors must be able to wear multiple hats in order to compete in today's market. Gone are the days when being a good salesperson is enough. Thanks to the computerized world we live in, you now have to know how to effectively market your product as well.
Statistics have shown that 85% of prospective homebuyers are first turning to the internet to browse the real estate market in their area. Having professional looking, beautifully staged photographs of your home is critical. There are many great homes out there that are not even being seen because the pictures on the MLS are misrepresentative, and so poorly done.
Based on my own experience of photographing the homes of my clients, I know how difficult a task it can be. Judging by the quality of photographs I am seeing on the internet, I am not alone. There are many more people who 'Do not know how to photograph homes than' Do '!
The following are some picture taking tips that will turn you into a pro in no time. . .
Click Away – We're living in the digital age, so click away! In order to get more interesting shots, position yourself in different corners of the room to get a variety of angles to choose from. And remember to take some high shots (as in standing on a chair or stairway), as well as low.
Light Sells – Turn on all of the lights in the room. Indoor lighting has a photographic quality which adds an inviting, warm atmosphere to your pictures.
Flash Alert – Take your pictures both with and without the flash. At times a flash can add a hard light quality to your pictures. By removing the flash it will force your camera to draw in natural and artificial light, giving a comfortable glow to the shot which buyers can respond to.
It's A Blur – A photographers trick is to press your arms against your sides and spread your feet to form a tripod effect with your body to steady your shots. You can also lean against a wall or in a doorway for extra support.
Do-Overs – This is one time when do-overs are allowed. Thanks to technology our digital cameras tell us instantly how well we have performed. The lens sees the world differently than we do, picking up each little detail ie the cluttered countertop, or the dogs head in the corner of the picture!
Live a Little -Create interest by positioning focal points to the left or right rather than always in the center.
When to Shoot – An hour or two after the sun rises, and an hour or two after it sets. This is when the light is the most flattering.
Watch Your Back – Make sure natural light is coming from the side or back of you when taking your pictures to avoid glare. This tip is critical , and most often the one we see people not following on Realtor.com!
Pay Attention to Detail – Remember to shoot some of the emotional connection points in each room which focus in on staging effects.
I hope these tips have been helpful to you. Grab your wide angled lens camera, go out there and get some great shots!