If you’re planning on selling or renting out your property, having professional photographs taken can make a huge difference in attracting potential buyers or renters. Not only do high-quality photos showcase your property in the best possible light, but they also help to create a positive first impression for anyone who sees them.
To ensure that your photos turn out as great as possible, here are ten things you should do to prepare for a professional photographer’s visit:
- Clean and Declutter: Before the photographer arrives, ensure that your property is clean and tidy. Remove any clutter, put away personal items, and tidy up any messes. This will make your property look more spacious and attractive in the photos. Remember, less is more when it comes to creating a visually appealing space.
- Make Necessary Repairs: Prior to the photo shoot, take care of any minor repairs or touch-ups that need to be done. This could include fixing a leaky faucet, patching up any holes in the walls, or repainting chipped or scuffed areas. Don’t forget to replace any non-working light bulbs as well to ensure that your property is well-lit for the shoot.
- Boost Your Curb Appeal: The exterior of your property is the first thing that potential buyers or renters will see, so it’s essential to make a good first impression. Ensure that your property looks great by mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and adding some potted plants or flowers. Don’t forget to clear the driveway to make it look neat and tidy as well.
- Stage your rooms: Arrange your furniture and decor in a way that makes your rooms look their best. Consider removing any bulky or outdated furniture and replacing it with something more modern and stylish.
- Consider the Best Time of Day: Natural lighting plays a crucial role in capturing great photos of your property. Depending on what you want to highlight, choose a time of day that showcases your property’s best features. Most shoots are completed within an hour, so timing is critical. Every property is different, but it’s generally preferred to have the sun shining on the front of the property unless you want to prioritize showcasing a beautiful backyard.
- Weather: Weather can sometimes be unpredictable, and it’s not always possible to schedule a photo shoot on a day with perfect lighting. While sunny days are ideal, overcast days can also work well for photography. (Ask about sky replacement) However, if it’s raining, it’s best to reschedule the shoot. Since the weather is out of the photographer’s control, it’s important to understand their cancellation and rescheduling policy beforehand.
- Make sure your pets are out of the way: If you have pets, make sure they’re out of the way during the photo shoot. This will prevent them from getting in the photos and potentially causing distractions for the photographer.
- Showcase your best features: If your property has any standout features, such as a beautiful view or a spacious outdoor area, make sure these are highlighted in the photos.
- Provide clear instructions: Make sure the photographer knows exactly what you want from the photo shoot. Provide a clear list of rooms and features that you want to be photographed, as well as any special instructions or preferences you may have.
- Be flexible: Finally, be prepared to be flexible and adaptable during the photo shoot. The photographer may have suggestions for poses or angles that you hadn’t considered, and being open to their ideas can lead to even better results.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning photos that showcase your property in the best possible light. With great photos, you’ll be more likely to attract potential buyers or renters and achieve your goals.