Properties lingering on the market? Think you need a new real estate photographer?
Choosing the right real estate photographer can make all the difference for a swift sale and an easy working relationship.
But how exactly do you know which is the right one?
Guessing just wastes time, money, and energy – all things no one wants to give up willy nilly.
So let’s take the guesswork out of it with 8 essentials to look for to ensure you’re getting the best – once and for all.
Already checked some of these? Don’t miss the rest, skip ahead:
- Experience and Reviews
- Equipment and Tech
- Availability and Turnaround
- Customer Service
- Marketing Expertise
- Local Market Expertise
- Property Specialties
- Pricing and Packages
Experience and Reviews
Experience means consistency. When choosing a real estate photographer, look for someone with a proven track record in the industry. This will be someone who can deliver quality images time and time again. Check their portfolio or their social media pages and keep an eye out for lighting, framing, and overall consistent image quality. Reading reviews from past clients also gives you a better idea of their reliability, professionalism, and the overall satisfaction of their services.
What to Get Answered:
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they work with any big names in your area?
Equipment and Tech
A photographer’s toolbox can significantly impact image quality – in more ways than one. And it’s not just about the camera or the lens. Certain techniques and software play a bigger role than you may think. For example, today, your photographer should – without a doubt – offer HDR photos, aerial imagery, and use advanced editing programs. Look for information about their gear and editing process online to make sure they’re up to date with the latest tech.
What to Get Answered:
- Do they offer HDR photography?
- What are their post production capabilities?
Availability and Turnaround
Timing is everything, in real estate especially. A delay in photo delivery means a slow down in your marketing efforts which can lead to missed opportunities for you – the last thing you want! So availability and turnaround matter. The right real estate photographer should be able to accommodate your schedule without compromising on quality, and provide a clear timeline for when you can expect the final images.
What to Get Answered:
- What is their turnaround time?
- Do they offer expedited services for an added fee?
Customer Service
Customer service sets the tone for your entire working relationship. A dedication to prompt communication, professionalism, and a willingness to understand your unique needs are key things to consider. Look for a photographer who is responsive to inquiries, open to feedback, and willing to go the extra mile.
What to Get Answered:
- How do they handle feedback?
- Do they respond quickly and professionally?
Marketing Expertise
Real estate photography is more than just taking the pictures, it’s about capturing images that sell. A photographer with marketing expertise understands how to highlight a property’s best features and appeal to potential buyers. They should be familiar with trends in real estate marketing and know how to produce images that will perform well on listing sites, social media, and other platforms.
What to Get Answered:
- How do they approach different types of listings?
- Are they up to date with current trends?
Local Market Expertise
Not just marketing expertise, but market expertise! A photographer who knows your local market can provide valuable insights into how best to present a property. You want them to be familiar with the expectations of buyers in your area and can tailor their approach. This expertise can be particularly useful when selling properties in competitive markets or unique neighborhoods, where subtle differences in presentation can make a big impact.
What to Get Answered:
- What is their service area?
- Do they work in your local area often?
Property Specialties
A commercial building often needs a different approach than a luxury residential property. The right real estate photographer will understand the unique challenges and opportunities each property type presents and will have the skills to showcase the property in the best light. For example, residential properties often require more elaborate staging and lighting, while commercial properties may need more focus on functional spaces.
What to Get Answered:
- Do they specialize or have experience in a certain property type?
- How do they change their approach for differing property types?
Pricing and Packages
Last but definitely not least, you’ll want to consider pricing and offerings. While it’s important to stay within budget, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Look for a photographer who offers transparent pricing and a range of packages. Make sure to understand what is included in each package, such as the number of photos, editing services, and additional costs for things like virtual staging or twilight photography.
What to Get Answered:
- Are their packages customizable?
- How does their pricing and offerings compare to other photographers in your area?
What to Remember
Choosing the right real estate photographer involves more than just finding someone with a camera. Use these 8 key factors to find someone you can trust – and with that – save time and get results.
At Maddox Media, our goal is to build a long term relationship with you and become your partner in success. If you’re looking for a new real estate photographer, we would be happy to chat with you and answer any questions you may have!
Real Estate Photography + Video Production throughout Toronto, the GTA, and Northumberland
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