If you're on the hunt for a real estate photographer, it's important to find one that offers a comprehensive range of services. Gone are the days when a simple point-and-shoot camera would suffice. Real estate photography has evolved into a highly specialized skill that requires top-notch equipment and editing software. Luckily, there are now more marketing services available in post-production than ever before, especially in light of the COVID pandemic. To ensure you're getting the best service possible, here are eight services that any professional real estate photographer should offer:
1) 24-hour Turnaround
In today's competitive market, time is of the essence. Waiting a week for your photos simply won't cut it. The best local real estate photographers understand this and offer a quick 24-hour turnaround time. This allows you to get your listing up for sale as soon as possible, maximizing its exposure.
2) Listing Property Hosting
Many real estate photographers now provide a convenient and free hosting page for your media. This eliminates the need for third-party hosting platforms and keeps all your photos in one place. Additionally, it allows you to easily share your listing photos with potential buyers on your website or blog. Be sure to ask your photographer about this service before booking your next shoot.
3) Image Correction
Sometimes photos need a little extra touch-up after a shoot. However, it's important to note that the goal is not to deceive consumers but rather enhance certain elements. For example, making the sky bluer or the grass greener can make a significant difference without misleading potential buyers. A skilled photographer can easily make these natural enhancements, so don't hesitate to request them.
4) Virtual Staging
Traditional staging can be costly and time-consuming. A good real estate photographer should offer virtual staging options, providing you with a catalog of settings and furniture to stage both interior and exterior rooms virtually. This saves you money and ensures your listing makes a great first impression, especially since many buyers are now viewing listings online before visiting in person.
5) Virtual Decluttering
Clutter can be a major turnoff for potential buyers. Working with a professional real estate photographer who offers virtual decluttering services can make a big difference. They can remove unnecessary items or personal belongings from the photos, ensuring a clean and appealing look. This is particularly useful for items like toasters or coffee makers that may detract from the overall aesthetic of the space.
6) Virtual Twilight
The warm, golden hour light of a sunset can create a stunning ambiance. But what if your shoot didn't happen during this magical time? Fear not, as a skilled photographer can create a virtual twilight effect during post-production. By using the right editing software and techniques, they can make the exterior of your listing look as if it's bathed in the warm glow of twilight. This is a great way to make your listing stand out online and give potential buyers a sense of what it would feel like to live there.
7) Virtual Time-lapse
Engaging potential buyers is key, and virtual time-lapse is a fantastic way to achieve that. By taking a series of still photos from the same angle over 24 hours, a photographer can create a video that condenses the passage of time into a few seconds. This captivating effect showcases the various colors and moods of the home throughout the day. Adding a virtual time-lapse can be the showstopper your listing needs to capture attention.
8) Virtual Appraisal
Virtual appraisals are gaining popularity in the real estate market. These Fannie-Mae-approved services allow you to order floor plan services that determine the desktop appraisal value of your home. By offering a certified appraisal with an already approved property value, you enhance your real estate marketing game. This strategy sets your listing apart and provides buyers with valuable information for financing purposes.
The Bottom Line
To take your real estate business to the next level, it's crucial to work with a photographer who offers these eight services. By utilizing all of them, you can provide an exceptional experience for both your sellers and buyers. Additionally, these services often require minimal additional costs and resources from you as the listing agent. When meeting with a real estate photographer, make sure to inquire about these services to ensure they are up-to-date on the latest trends. If not, it may be worth considering someone who is. Visit HomeJab to find a professional real estate photographer in your area or a nearby city.