Author: Claire Wright

  • 7 Tips on How to Take Hotel Interior Images Like a Pro

    7 Tips on How to Take Hotel Interior Images Like a Pro

    The real estate photography industry is further divided into other niches, such as hotel photography.

    For one, you may wonder how and why, but it is pretty simple: real estate is not all about houses and lots, condos, or apartments, which are all residential; at times, commercial real estate properties like hospitals and hotels also need the spotlight.

    When photographing hotels, there are many factors to consider – angles, gear, lighting, levels, and even the architecture lines.

    So, if you plan to venture into hotel photography, here are eight (8) tips from the experts.

    A wide-angle lens is a must

    Just like interior real estate photography, using a wide-angle lens is highly recommended.

    Aside from this, you need to combine it with a full-frame sensor camera, meaning it has an image sensor that is the same size as the sensor of an analog camera. The most significant advantage of this camera is having a no crop factor.

    Avoid going too wide

    So, even if a wide-angle lens is recommended, it is still best not to go too wide.

    Here’s one tip: don’t go any wider than 24mm.

    Most hotels prefer that you use only lenses not wider than 24mm because it can create a false sense of space, making the image look deceiving.

    Use correct lighting

    Again, it is part of the basics.

    Lighting is an essential part of getting the best hotel images.

    As a photographer, you know that using artificial lighting should be avoided as much as possible.

    However, it is different from hotel interior photography. You need artificial lighting if natural lighting is not enough.

    Most professional interiors photographers use strobes as their method of artificial lighting. This method uses a trick wherein the artificial lights become unnoticeable by the viewers.

    Check the aperture

    Use your camera at an aperture of f8 or smaller, which in photography means higher numbers such as f9 or f11.

    Combining a small aperture with accurate focusing can result in ultra-sharp images that are must-haves in the hotel industry.

    Composition is key

    In architectural and interiors photography, your vertical lines must always be straight.

    Simultaneously, if you are producing a one-point perspective image, both vertical and horizontal lines must be straight.

    Following the simple rule of composition will yield fantastic images that can be used to boost hotel listings.

    Go at a low level

    Well, this meant going on a low level instead of the usual eye-level photography.

    When shooting from a lower position, your eyesight creates a dramatic sight that can make the image more interesting.

    Moreover, shooting low will make any furniture or elements in the frame look less distorted.

    Use a level

    You must use a level for hotel and interiors photography.

    If you can pull this off in your shots, your images will look more professional than amateur. Most modern cameras have a built-in level, so there is no excuse for crooked architectural lines in your pictures.

    Never forget the tripod

    Regardless of the property type, most interior photography requires a longer shutter speed.

    Now, you must ensure that the camera will not be shaken or moved to avoid blurry images during this time.

    There are still other uses for a tripod aside from this, such as easy panning and taking of panoramic shots.

    Are you now ready to shoot your first hotel photography gig?

    Make use of these eighth tips and see the wonders yourself.

    Above anything else, remember that you may not get everything right in the beginning. However, it should not discourage you.

    Instead, keep trying and practice when you have time. Good luck!

  • The Complete 4 Easy Steps Drone Real Estate Photography Tutorial

    The Complete 4 Easy Steps Drone Real Estate Photography Tutorial

    At times, doing the usual interior and exterior real estate photography is already challenging.

    How much more if it is drone photography?

    Most photographers share the same dilemma regarding aerial or drone shots, primarily because it is a lot more complicated than the usual photoshoot.

    So, if you are also one of those who want to learn how to do aerial photography the right way, this article is for you.

    Drone Photography Defined

    From the name itself, drone photography, also known as aerial photography, involves taking real estate images and videos at a higher altitude.

    Technically, this is challenging since it will require you to use a flying drone at a high altitude.

    Despite this, you should recognize that this alone can leverage your property listings.

    Here’s why.

    Compelling aerial photography showcases unique aspects of the property that is impossible to capture at ground level.

    For example, you can take good pictures of the property and the adjacent area in a regular shot but not the significant landmarks and stunning landscape and the rest of the neighborhood.

    Yet, with aerial photography, this is possible.

    Your Guide to Aerial Photography (4 Steps Only)

    Are you excited about how to do drone photography the right way?

    Here is a quick and simple tutorial for you.

    Buy the right drone

    Even without a guide, you can buy a high-quality drone that is perfect for aerial photography.

    Always consider your budget, though. If you’re on a smaller budget, there are drones for up to $1400. At this rate, you should be able to buy a good drone to do the work.

    It is still costly compared to others but is still relatively cheaper compared to other brands.

    One brand you can check is DJI drones.

    Master the set-up process

    This one is subjective as it depends on the kind of drone you have.

    In this tutorial, let us use the DJI drone as an example.

    The very first step is to pair it with your smartphone.

    Then, download the app from the App Store or Google Play.

    Input the following settings:

    • Set up the drone for a single shot
    • Set the image ratio to 16:9
    • Leave the white balance on automatic mode.

    One pro tip is to check first if the lens is clean before launching the drone. This can prevent having blur images.

    Moreover, pay attention to the GPS calibration. It’s critical to ensure you have proper control of the drone during the flight time.

    Learn how to shoot properly

    This is the exciting part, but make sure the environment around is free from any power lines and trees.

    Launch the flight by pressing the controller toggles in an opposite diagonal direction once you have checked that the path is clear.

    Play with the camera angles until you get the shots you wanted.

    Make sure to have many shots so you can choose which one is the best to use.

    Edit Your Shots

    Editing your shots is a must. Do not upload unedited images.

    If you are on a tight budget, you can try using some free editing apps, just like Snapseed and VSCO.

    The paid ones offer more functionalities and are best if you want more professional-looking photos.

    But, if you want to edit by yourself or hire someone you know, that is all fine.

    What matters is the result!

    Are you now ready to upgrade your listing photos?

    Try including some great aerial photographs and see how it can leverage your business.

    With many real estate photography companies available, the choice is all yours. Boost your listings with compelling images that people seek and want.

    Also, if possible, try incorporating real estate videos too in your listings. It will give interested buyers more reasons to take a look at the property.

  • 8 Tips for Perfect Real Estate Photography Lighting

    8 Tips for Perfect Real Estate Photography Lighting

    In photography, learning is forever.

    Having the necessary knowledge is not always enough to compete against others. You need to have an edge – a forte that you can nurture.

    There are two things to consider: your niche and skills.

    So, first, focus on your niche, then next, slowly develop the skills.

    One of the most admired skillsets in photography that you should concentrate on is the lighting aspect.

    For one, clients do not want to see dull real estate images.

    They hire real estate photographers to get the best images, not crappy ones.

    Hence, try your best to learn the craft of shooting captivating real estate images with the aid of proper lighting.

    But first, let us define lighting in the context of photography.

    Lighting Defined

    Lighting in photography is also known as photographic lighting, which practically means perfect scenes to be photographed.

    With a working knowledge of how lighting works, you will take control of your photography techniques.

    So, here’s a simplified explanation.

    First, you need to remember that a photographic image is created only by capturing light reflected from the scene.

    The rule of thumb: dark objects absorb more light and reflect less into the camera, while bright things reflect more light.

    This process is known as the picture’s brightness, with colors defined by the reflected light’s wavelengths and frequencies.

    Therefore, objects with different hues reflect different wavelengths and frequencies and affect the picture’s looks.

    4 Real Estate Photography Lighting Techniques

    Master Natural Light

    Natural light is the best source of lighting for interiors, especially if you have large windows.

    Just slide your curtains and take good images of your property.

    Here are some more tips for shooting with natural light:

    • Choose the best hour of the day. It’s usually around midday, but it depends on the property’s location and the sunrays. So, take note of this before starting the session.
    • Avoid shooting interiors at sunset, when the light quickly changes color. Doing so will just make the photos look dull.
    • Open all the blinds. Make the sunlight fill the room as best as possible.
    • Turn off every light in the room. One of the most significant advantages of turning the lights off is that you avoid color casts.

    Use a Flash to Mimic Natural Light

    Sometimes, the light in a room can be dull and flat.

    However, you can improve this by mimicking natural light.

    This is simple to do. All you need is to imitate natural light from a definite direction by pointing the flash on the wall to get a soft large diffused light coming from that direction.

    Use HDR While Maintaining a Natural Look

    In a room, our eyes continuously adapt to the environment to sense the highlights and shadows.

    Using HDR is perfect when shooting images at different exposures. In the end, the photographer needs to capture other exposures and combine them in post-production without destroying the natural look of the property.

    Avoid Mixed Lighting to Eliminate Color Casts

    The perfect lighting should always be neutral.

    It is best not to use different lighting sources to avoid color cast.

    Color cast is not a useful element in photos because it makes them look dull with noticeable noise.

    The first method to avoid a color cast is to turn off every light. This way, you can be sure to have a uniform light in your photos.

    If your flash doesn’t match with the light fixtures or with the window light, try using gel filters to check the color temperature.

    You can also try matching the flash with the interior lights to make editing easier in post-production.

  • Why do we use HD photography in real estate photography?

    Why do we use HD photography in real estate photography?

    In photography, both niche and expertise matter.

    As a company that focuses on real estate photography, we ensure that our photographers are skilled enough and have a working knowledge of HD photography.

    Why?

    We are dedicated to providing only the best photography services to interested realtors and property owners.

    Now, we’ll share with you more magic of HD Photography.

    We know it is all about taking high-definition photographs, but that is not everything.

    Aside from understanding its technicality, it has many more benefits than what you can think about now.

    Importance of HD Photography

    It is common knowledge that compelling images matter in real estate listings.

    Given this, no one would want to see crappy photos in listings.

    Hence, we must take high-definition photos only. Here at HD Estates, we offer hand-retouched 16 bit HD Photos leveraging the real estate photography industry.

    Using this technology yields compelling images that create conversion.

    Here are more reasons why HD photography is vital in the real estate industry.

    Lead Generation

    Realtors or agents get prospected leads online.

    Since everything is now digital, they also need to upgrade the way they look for leads.

    Although the traditional way of finding leads is still significant, doing this online is more convenient now.

    Adding impressive images on a listing attracts potential leads in browsing the pictures and, eventually, inquire about the featured property.

    Improved Online Visibility

    If you aim to increase your visibility online, it is best to start with a website and social media accounts.

    Of course, you need to add attractive images on your posts or website pages so you can awe users.

    Such compelling images have the most potential for being shared, liked, and commented on by your visitors.

    Furthermore, it is vital that what you are uploading is of the highest quality, as that will help boost your business further on social media platforms.

    Fast Selling Properties

    According to previous statistics in the United States, homes with high-quality photography sell 32% faster than those who do not have quality images on the listings.

    This remains true, regardless if it is a brand new property or a previously owned one.

    Moreover, homes with more photos sell faster than properties that only have one image in the listings.

    As per the statistics, a home with one photo spends an average of 70 days on the market, while a property with 20 photos or more only stays 32 days on the market before it gets sold.

    Increased Home Value

    Some homeowners are not aware of this yet – that great images increase the value of the property.

    In a Redfin report, homes with professional real estate photos average $11,000 over market value.

    That’s big!

    That is why investing a bit for your photography needs is not much compared to the property’s value once you posted it online.

    To do this, you can incorporate aerial shots and videography to highlight more features and amenities of the property.

    Produce Great Images With HD Estates

    Are you ready to upgrade your real estate listings?

    Let us know! Our team of expert photographers and videographers are always ready to help you achieve your goals.

    Your home is a haven.

    It is one good reason why interested buyers should feel comfortable already with the property at first glance.

    And what is the best way to do this than having creative photos?

    We exist because clients need us.

     

    If you think it is now time to seek professional photography help, contact us anytime at support@hdestates.com or via a quick phone call at 206-453-5291.

    We wish you the best for your next property listings!

  • The Perfect ISO for Real Estate Photography

    The Perfect ISO for Real Estate Photography

    Are you a real estate photographer?

    If yes, what is the ISO you are using?

    Any professional photographer surely knows the importance of ISO in all types of photography. For one, it is not just a useless element in your camera. It has a purpose.

    So, before learning more about ISO and how it can help you shoot beautiful images, let us define it first.

    What is ISO?

    There is no denying that your camera’s ISO stands for International Standardization for Organization.

    It is the very same ISO you know in different industries’ regulations.

    But, there is one thing you should know when it comes to a camera’s ISO: it is only used to brighten or darken your images.

    It is technically a setting that can allow you to work in dark environments without the need for additional or artificial lighting.

    ISO Sensitivity and Exposure Triangle in Real Estate Photography

    For most DSLR cameras, ISO measures the camera’s ability to capture light.

    It is associated with the concept of exposure, particularly in certain types of photography, including in real estate.

    So, how exactly should you use ISO in your property images?

    The primary step is to learn the exposure triangle.

    But what is it?

    In the most straightforward reference, exposure refers to the amount of light that the camera can capture.

    Is it a controllable setting? Yes, it is!

    You can control exposure, given the three necessary settings that work hand-in-hand to create perfect images.

    Hence, you should familiarize yourself with these settings: aperture, shutter speed, and sensitivity, otherwise known as ISO.

    Moreover, remember that these three settings comprise the exposure triangle.

    The Ideal ISO Setting for Real Estate Images

    The rule of thumb is to remember the basics: (1) increasing the ISO value means the sensor is more sensitive, so more light is captured, while (2) decreasing the amount means lesser light is captured.

    The primary camera’s ISO is around 100, but it can be as high as 4000.

    Having ISO as high as that sounds good, but it also has its downfall.

    It allows you to capture more light information even in a low-light environment. Still, the images will likely not appear crisp, with noise or grain. This is not aesthetically pleasing to see in the final photos.

    Therefore, the recommended ISO levels, especially for real estate photographers, should be the following:

    • Maintain it as low as possible, starting at 200 ISO as a base.
    • If you need to go higher, make sure you will not go above ISO 400 unless otherwise required.

    Aperture and Shutter Speed Ideal Settings

    Do you still remember that exposure triangle?

    We mentioned other settings like aperture and shutter speed, so here is a bonus part for you!

    We’ll let you know about the ideal settings you should follow when setting up these two other settings.

    So, let us define what an aperture is.

    Aperture refers to how wide your lens is when taking images.

    The basic idea to remember is this: the wider the opening, the lower the aperture value, and the more light that is allowed to strike your sensor.

    Given this, the shallower the depth of field is, the more precise the focus point is while anything away from that point becomes more out of focus and less bright.

    Now, a lower aperture value means a shallower depth of field. At the same time, a high aperture value such as F22 means the lens is open less.

    Typically, in real estate photography, the ideal aperture is between F8 and F11. Moreover, F5.6 and F16 are also acceptable but not recommended with outside edges of the range.

    On the other hand, shutter speed means the duration as to how long your lens stays open to allow light to hit the camera’s sensor.

    What’s right about shutter speed is you can be flexible in setting this compared to ISO and aperture.

    If you choose to use 1/100 second, make sure you use a tripod to avoid blurry images.

    That’s it!

    You now have a better understanding of the perfect ISO for your next photo shoot. Following the suggested settings should help you first-hand if you have difficulty finding your camera’s right settings.

    However, we still recommend that you experiment with these settings in your free time to get the best combination that is perfect for your nee

  • 4 Awesome Tips to Make Your Real Estate Video Viral

    4 Awesome Tips to Make Your Real Estate Video Viral

    Do you dream of becoming the next viral real estate content creator?

    As a realtor, it is not impossible to do. All you need to do is to create relevant and compelling content.

    Emphasizing the importance of real estate listings with compelling images have been a basic knowledge with most realtors.

    But other than having the best images, adding amazing video content will also make your property listing stand out.

    So, you have done filming the property with your real estate videographer.

    What’s next?

    It is to edit the video and turn it into content that matters.

    This article will have some tips to make your video viral and promote your real estate property stand out.

    Let us start with the four foundations.

     

    Creativity

    It is the wow factor of the video.

    Ensure that you brainstorm this part of the video creation. Having a creative idea is the key to viral videos.

    It should be unique with a sense of novelty that can capture your audience’s attention.

    Shareability

    People who find your content useful and unique tend to look for ways to share it on sites with a significant user volume.

    It is the sharing process that makes the content go viral at the speed of light.

    So, how do you make your content shareable?

    Simple! Add the link in your description box.

    Duration

    Just like an article, KISS it – Keep It Short and Simple.

    People are busy, and they do not have enough time to spend watching a long video.

    So, the secret? Make a short video.

    Ideally, it should only be around a minute to three, so the audience will not get bored.

    Memorability

    Make videos that create an impact.

    Your viewers should remember your video. It is an excellent way to raise brand awareness.

    You see, there is no need for them to ask you for help, but if they decide later on to purchase a property, they will remember and contact you.

    Some of the things you can add to make your video memorable are iconic music, catchy taglines, or parodies.

     

    Four Expert Tips for your Real Estate Video

    Now, let us learn the tips you should follow.

    Use YouTube

    There are many known video sharing platforms these days, but YouTube still outranks others.

    According to Hubspot, each month, over 2 billion logged-in users visit YouTube, with many people consuming over a billion hours of video time while generating billions of views.

    With YouTube’s vast reach, growing a steady community of audience is possible.

    All you need to have are contents that are relatable and do not violate the community rules.

    Create a branded thumbnail

    Some real estate videographers do not pay attention to the kind of thumbnail they use in the video.

    This should not be the case.

    As the realtor, proactively tell them that you should have an attractive thumbnail. It is essential in capturing the audience’s attention.

    A thumbnail works like an image for a real estate listing, so it needs to be impressive to the audience.

    Use Description and Hashtags

    Optimize your video.

    Just like other types of content, it needs to have a title and description with keywords. It is one way to make them rank and appear in the search engine.

    Also, never forget to include a hashtag on your video description.

    Do comprehensive research first on the trending hashtags on your niche or area.

    It should be localized most of the time to make sure people in your target area see your video.

     

    Are you now ready to make a viral real estate video? Master these tips, and you should be able to produce a video that educates and creates conversions.