How to Prepare Your Property for Photography or Video

If you have a home that will be going on the market for sale or for rent, having high quality photos and videos is very important. 

When potential buyers or renters are scrolling listings on sites like the MLS or AirBNB, your thumbnail photos are the first impression they have of your property. 

If you don’t have a great thumbnail photo, potential buyers or renters are just going to scroll on by. A great thumbnail photo will get clicks, but then the whole photo gallery needs to be impressive in order to get bookings. 

So with that in mind, here are my recommendations for preparing your property for photography or video – as a working real estate and rentals photographer and videographer myself. 

The property should be clean and organized. 

This might seem like it goes without saying, but I’m going to say it. You really should hire a professional cleaning service the day before or the day of the photoshoot. Professional cleaners know how to make your place look amazing, with details that you probably won’t think of if you do the cleaning yourself. They are experts at folding towels, making beds, and even folding decorations into paper towels and toilet paper so perfectly. They will clean the dust off fans and window blinds, clean smudges off walls and doors, things you just don’t notice that can show up in photos.

You should have a full set of matching dishes and placemats for as many seats as you have at the table.

Photographers in this market will often do staging including setting the table with place settings, flowers, fruit, and sometimes other food items. Usually they like to set a breakfast scene, sometimes with juice or coffee, and a wine on the balcony scene. At the minimum it’s nice to put dishes on the table even if they don’t add any food items, because buyers and renters like to see how many people the table seats, and it looks more inviting and friendly if the table is set. It’s the photographer’s nightmare when they arrive and can’t find placemats or a full set of dishes. I’ve seen many properties with only 3 plates or 3 cups. High quality rentals always have a full set. 

Iron the linens on the beds, and make the beds well.

Beds should have linens that are the right size for the bed, either tucked in or laying correctly to fully cover the mattress on the sides, and not wrinkly looking. It’s not that easy to “just photoshop out” the wrinkles. The pillows should be fluffy and standing upright, as opposed to laid or stacked on the bed. These details make the bed look fluffy, comfortable, and inviting. 

Put away personal items.

Buyers and renters don’t want to see photos of your family, your notebooks and knicknacks. I even usually put away bath mats, toilet paper rolls, toilet brushes, and I hide trash cans. 

If there’s a grill that needs to be uncovered, uncover it. 

Especially if you’re renting your place or selling it furnished, your potential clients want to see all of the amenities that it comes with. If you offer a grill or other appliances or amenities, make sure they are staged to look great in photos and videos, and make sure to mention it in your listing.

Just generally make it look inviting.

When the place just has that “look” you’re more likely to get buyers or renters. Plants, pops of color, and fluffy beds and couches especially help with this. Setting the table and taking the photos in the right also help.

If you would like to book a photo or video shoot for your property in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas, send me a message on WhatsApp at +52 (322) 190-6750 or email csduchateau@gmail.com

Written by:
Corie DuChateau
First Impressions Photography & Video
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and surrounding areas
http://www.firstimpressions.mx

Luxury Real Estate Photographer in Puerto Vallarta

In the world of real estate, first impressions matter, especially in the realm of luxury properties. As a luxury real estate photographer in Puerto Vallarta, I understand the importance of capturing the essence and allure of high-end homes. In this blog post, we’ll explore why hiring a luxury real estate photographer is crucial for showcasing your property and how my expertise, including twilight photography and virtual staging, can make a significant difference.

Why Choose a Luxury Real Estate Photographer?

  1. Distinctive Approach: Luxury properties demand a unique and sophisticated visual representation. A luxury real estate photographer is skilled in capturing the distinctive features that make your property stand out. From breathtaking ocean views to meticulously designed interiors, every detail is highlighted to create an irresistible allure.
  2. Enhanced Visual Storytelling: Crafting a compelling visual narrative is essential in marketing luxury real estate. A skilled photographer knows how to tell the story of your property through images. By capturing the lifestyle, ambiance, and architectural details, potential buyers can envision themselves living the lavish life your property offers.
  3. High-Quality Imagery: The difference between amateur and professional photography is evident in the quality of the images. A luxury real estate photographer possesses top-notch equipment and the expertise to produce high-resolution, magazine-worthy photographs that showcase your property in the best light possible.
  4. Expertise in Lighting and Composition: Lighting and composition play a pivotal role in creating visually stunning photographs. A luxury real estate photographer understands how to leverage natural and artificial lighting to highlight the property’s unique features. They also have an impeccable sense of composition, ensuring that each photograph is a work of art.
  5. Customized Marketing Material: A luxury real estate photographer doesn’t just capture images; they create a visual marketing package tailored to your property. Stunning photographs can be utilized across various marketing channels, including brochures, websites, and social media, effectively reaching potential buyers and maximizing exposure.

Twilight Photography:

  1. Dramatic Atmosphere: Twilight photography adds a touch of drama and elegance to your property. The magical hues of the sky during the golden hour create a captivating backdrop, making your property look enchanting and unforgettable.
  2. Showcasing Outdoor Spaces: Twilight photography is particularly effective in showcasing outdoor spaces, such as gardens, pools, and terraces. The soft, warm glow of lights combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings enhances the overall appeal of the property.
  3. Highlighting Architectural Features: The interplay of light and shadow during twilight can accentuate the architectural details of your property. This technique adds depth and dimension, making the photographs visually striking.

Virtual Staging:

  1. Flexible Design Options: Virtual staging allows for the creation of various design options without the need for physical furniture. This flexibility enables potential buyers to visualize different styles and layouts, catering to a wide range of preferences.
  2. Maximizing Space Potential: By virtually staging a property, it becomes easier to showcase its full potential. Empty or underutilized spaces can be transformed into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas, helping buyers see the possibilities your property offers.
  3. Cost-Effective and Time-Efficient: Virtual staging is a cost-effective alternative to traditional staging, saving both time and resources. This is particularly beneficial in the luxury real estate market, where efficiency and presentation quality are paramount.

Investing in a luxury real estate photographer in Puerto Vallarta is a strategic move to elevate your property in the competitive luxury real estate market. By choosing a professional with an eye for detail and a passion for creating captivating visuals, including twilight photography and virtual staging, you ensure that your property receives the attention it deserves. Capture the essence of luxury living through expertly crafted photographs that leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Elevate Your Airbnb Listing: The Power of Professional Photography

In the competitive world of short-term rentals, making your Airbnb property stand out is essential for attracting guests. One often underestimated but incredibly influential factor in catching the eye of potential visitors is the quality of your listing’s photos. Professional photography can be a game-changer, not only in creating a visually appealing presentation but also in influencing Airbnb’s search algorithms to boost your listing’s visibility and ranking. In this blog post, we’ll explore why professional photography matters and how it can enhance the overall success of your Airbnb venture.

  1. First Impressions Matter

When prospective guests scroll through countless listings on Airbnb, the first thing that catches their attention is the visual presentation. High-quality, professional photos create a positive and lasting first impression, making your property more attractive compared to those with less polished images. A potential guest is more likely to click on a listing with striking visuals, setting the stage for increased inquiries and bookings.

  1. Improved Visibility in Search Results

There is a strong correlation between visual appeal and booking success. Listings with eye-catching photos tend to receive more clicks, views, and engagement. Airbnb’s search algorithm likely takes these metrics into consideration when determining the visibility of a listing. Thus, professional photos contribute to your property being displayed more prominently in search results.

  1. Highlighting Unique Features

Professional photographers are skilled in showcasing a property’s unique features and capturing its essence. Whether it’s a stunning view, a cozy reading nook, or a well-designed kitchen, professional photos can emphasize these selling points. Highlighting the best aspects of your property through quality visuals not only attracts potential guests but also increases the perceived value of your listing.

  1. Building Trust with Guests

Clear, well-lit, and professionally edited photos convey a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness. Guests are more likely to feel confident in their booking decisions when they can clearly see the details of your property. High-quality photos can mitigate uncertainty and reassure guests that they are choosing a reputable and well-maintained accommodation.

  1. Enhanced Guest Experience

Professional photos not only attract guests but also contribute to a positive overall experience. When guests arrive and find that the property matches the high-quality images they saw online, it reinforces their satisfaction and can lead to positive reviews. Positive reviews, in turn, further boost your listing’s credibility and appeal to future guests.

Investing in professional photography for your Airbnb listing is a strategic move that can pay off in increased visibility, bookings, and positive guest experiences. Impact on user engagement and trust can significantly influence your listing’s success. Elevate your Airbnb venture by presenting your property in the best light possible through the lens of a professional photographer.

Why Hire a Professional Photographer for Your Real Estate or Vacation Rental Listing in the Puerto Vallarta Area

When it comes to marketing a property for sale or as a vacation rental, first impressions are everything! In today’s visually-driven world, potential buyers or renters make snap judgments based on the photos they see online. If you’re thinking about using smartphone snapshots to market your property, think again. Investing in a professional photographer for your real estate listing or vacation rental can make all the difference. Here’s why it’s a brilliant idea to bring in the pros.

1. High-Quality Visuals Make Your Property Shine

Professional photographers are skilled at capturing the essence and beauty of your property. They have top-notch equipment and the expertise to use it to its fullest potential. The result? High-resolution images that showcase your property in the best possible light, highlighting its unique features, and making it look truly irresistible. This is crucial in attracting potential buyers or renters who are scrolling through numerous listings.

2. A Well-Trained Eye for Detail

Experienced photographers have an eye for detail. They understand how to compose a shot, use lighting to their advantage, and capture angles that accentuate a property’s strengths. They will also take care of staging the property to ensure it looks its best in photos.

3. Professional Editing Enhances Appeal

It’s not just about the photoshoot; it’s also about post-production. Professional photographers edit the images to ensure they look their best. This involves color correction, making sure window views are visible, and removing minor blemishes. These edits can make a significant difference in how your property is perceived online.

4. Faster Sales or Rentals

Studies have consistently shown that listings with professional photographs sell or rent faster. They attract more attention, generate more inquiries, and drive higher engagement. When you’re in a competitive real estate or rental market, time can be of the essence, and professional photos can give you a significant advantage.

5. Improve Online Visibility

In today’s digital age, your property’s online presence is crucial. Professionally captured and edited photos can help your listing stand out from the competition on real estate and vacation rental websites. They will draw more visitors and drive more potential buyers or renters to your listing.

6. Tell a Compelling Story

Professional photographers understand how to tell a story through images. They can create a narrative that engages viewers and helps them envision themselves in the space. This is particularly important for vacation rentals, where potential renters are looking for an experience, not just a place to stay.

7. Building Trust and Credibility

Professional photography gives off an air of trustworthiness and credibility. It shows that you are invested in presenting your property in the best light possible, which can help potential buyers or renters feel more confident in their decision.

8. Time and Stress Saver

Hiring a professional photographer takes a huge weight off your shoulders. It allows you to focus on other aspects of selling or renting your property, rather than struggling with camera settings and lighting angles.

9. A Long-Term Investment

It’s a good idea to invest in professional photos because you’ll be able to use them until the property sells, or until you remodel if it’s a vacation rental. You could get several years of use out of your one-time investment. Great photos have a timeless quality that will make your property stand out for years to come.

10. Maximizing Value

In the grand scheme of things, the cost of hiring a professional photographer is a small investment that can lead to a higher sale price or rental income. You’re not just selling a property; you’re selling a lifestyle, and professional photos help you do just that.

In conclusion, hiring a professional photographer for your real estate listing or vacation rental property is a wise decision that can yield numerous benefits. The high-quality visuals, attention to detail, and the emotional appeal of professionally captured images can make a significant difference in your property’s marketability. In a crowded market, these advantages can be the key to a quicker sale or rental and a higher return on investment. So, if you’re considering putting your property on the market, remember: a picture is worth a thousand words, and professional photography is worth every penny.