High-Quality Photos and Videos: A Must for Your Property Listing
High-quality photos and videos are essential for marketing your property, whether for sale or rent.
In today’s digital marketplace, potential buyers or renters often begin their search on platforms like MLS or Airbnb. Your property’s thumbnail image serves as the first impression and a strong one can make the difference between someone clicking on your listing or scrolling past it. While an eye-catching thumbnail photo draws attention, an impressive full photo gallery is key to turning interest into action.
As a seasoned real estate and rental photographer and videographer, I’ve compiled some essential tips to help you prepare your property for a successful photoshoot.
Cleanliness and Organization Are Non-Negotiable
A spotless property is critical. Hiring a professional cleaning service the day before or the day of your shoot can make all the difference. Professional cleaners excel at details that might escape your notice, like dusting ceiling fans, cleaning window blinds, and removing smudges from walls and doors. They’ll also perfect the small touches, such as folding towels and making beds so they look picture-perfect. These details help your property shine in photos and videos.
Set the Table with Care
A well-set dining table is a small detail that can create a welcoming atmosphere. Have a complete set of matching dishes and placemats for the number of seats at your table. Photographers often stage tables with place settings, flowers, fruit, or even breakfast and wine scenes. Missing items such as placemats or complete sets of dishes can hinder staging efforts. Ensuring you have these items on hand makes your space look polished and inviting.
Perfect the Beds
The beds should look inviting. This means using linens that fit properly, ironing out wrinkles, and ensuring the mattress is fully covered on all sides. Pillows should be fluffy and arranged upright, not stacked or lying flat. These touches make the bedroom look cozy and comfortable, essential for creating a lasting impression.
Remove Personal Items
Potential buyers or renters want to envision themselves in the space, so it’s important to declutter and depersonalize. Hide family photos, personal notebooks, and knickknacks. Additionally, put away bath mats, toilet brushes, trash cans, and other everyday items that don’t photograph well. Minimalism helps potential clients focus on the property’s features rather than its current inhabitants.
Showcase Amenities
If your property includes amenities like a grill or outdoor furniture, ensure they’re clean and staged for the shoot. Showcasing these features in their best light adds significant value to rentals or furnished properties. Highlighting these extras in your photos and listing description can attract more interest.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
The goal is to make the property look inviting. Thoughtful touches like plants, colorful accents, and fluffy cushions or bedding can transform a space. Proper lighting and attention to detail during staging enhance the overall appeal.
