this-is-stupid-and-annoying

The Benefits of Twilight Photography

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 19:24:00 GMT

Can your listings benefit from Twilight Photography?

Twilight photography is one of the many current trends in real estate photography. But, what does it mean and why should you consider offering this service to your clients? Marketing strategies such as utilizing 3D virtual tours or aerial drones offer home buyers a more precise or personal view of a property. Creative videos can convey a story and generate excitement online. Printed ads like postcards or brochures put the images into a customer's possession. However, there is arguably no other marketing tool that captures a buyer's interest as effectively as a picture of a home taken at dusk
What is Twilight Photography?
While taking real estate photos during the day is a great way to capture clear details and bright colors, daytime photography can become monotonous and unappealing, especially when the same scenes are repeated in multiple properties. Twilight photography, on the other hand, offers a unique perspective.
Twilight photography captures the subject during the "golden hour," either before sunrise or after sunset. This period, which may last only a brief 15 minutes, is characterized by the sun being low on the horizon and casting a warm and intriguing light. In this window of time, photographers can produce breathtaking images
Certainly, just as real estate photographs can encompass more than just shots of the interior and exterior of a property, the same applies to twilight photographs. In addition to capturing images of the property itself, you can also include striking shots of outdoor areas, waterfront vistas, landscapes, urban skylines, and more.
Why is twilight photography an important real estate marketing strategy?
Quality photographs, particularly in large numbers, are considered as a crucial aspect in real estate marketing. Properties that have high-quality photographs generally sell faster and sometimes even at a higher price than other listings. The reason being, the impact that a well-captured twilight photo can have.

Twilight photos possess a captivating and alluring quality that makes them stand out from the rest. With a hint of mystery, these stunning images are sure to grab the attention of potential buyers as they flip through listings, browse through thumbnails, or search for properties on social media.
Twilight photography can be an effective real estate marketing tool because of its captivating and alluring appearance. These images are eye-catching and set themselves apart from the typical real estate photos. Additionally, twilight photos can showcase features of a property that are not visible during the day, or that might not appear as impressive, by highlighting accent lighting and casting intriguing shadows. The ambient light during the golden hour can also bring new life to features such as a deck, pool, or fire pit, while minimizing defects in the photo.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), nearly 90% of homebuyers who searched for a home online found photos to be one of the most useful features on a real estate agent's website. This means that not only will high-quality photos increase the views on a listing, but they can also serve as a valuable addition to an agent's portfolio and enhance interest in their business.
How to prepare for a twilight photography shoot?
Since the "golden hour" only lasts a brief period, it is crucial to have a property ready before the photographer arrives. Time moves quickly during the shoot and it can be easy to underestimate the preparation time, especially if the homeowner is not present to show the location of switches. Here are some tips to help homeowners get ready for a twilight photo session:
To prepare for a twilight photography shoot:

Turn on all interior lights.
Illuminate the exterior, including landscape lighting (you may need to cover up photocells on solar lights to ensure they come on).
Tone down overly bright lighting by removing certain bulbs.
Keep a ladder nearby for quick adjustments.
Stage areas of interest, such as a patio or pool deck, with the house in the background.
Have a hose readily available if preferred by the photographer for wetting down driveways or concrete areas.

What is Virtual Twilight
Virtual twilight refers to the process of taking exterior photos taken during daylight hours and digitally transforming them to look like they were captured during twilight. It involves the use of photo editing techniques by a photographer or specialist to create a dramatic representation of a house at dusk, also known as a day-to-dusk or twilight conversion.
Why choose virtual twilight instead of real twilight photography?
The limited time frame during which twilight photography can be done might not align with your schedule or client's availability. In such cases, or when access to a property is limited, virtual twilight could be the solution as it can be created using existing digital exterior photos.
Once you have chosen a photo to be transformed into a virtual twilight image, a professional photographer or photo editor will then enhance the image by adding light to the windows, creating a stunning dusk sky, and correcting any minor flaws. The final product will be ready for use in just a matter of a day or two.
Although twilight photography is currently popular in the real estate industry, not everyone is utilizing it. By incorporating some twilight photography into your marketing strategy, you can set your listings and business apart and make them stand out.

How to get ready for your headshots

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Getting new headshots doesn't need to be a stressful event.

When getting ready for your headshot session, there are a few things to consider both before and during the shoot. But if you follow these helpful tips, you'll handle it like an old pro.

Many people believe that getting a headshot is a quick and simple process, similar to taking high school yearbook photos where you just sit on a stool and it's done in a flash. However, that's not always the case. The duration of a headshot session varies based on time constraints and requirements for different poses and/or backgrounds. For instance, CEO headshot sessions may last for up to two hours, while most professionals and executives usually spend about 45 minutes to an hour in the studio. Actors may need several different looks for various casting opportunities, so their headshot sessions can extend well over an hour.
No matter your profession or objective, it's crucial to give yourself enough time for your headshot session. Here are a few tips to make sure you get the best from your shoot.
1. Prior to the shoot, provide as much information to your photographer as you can

Before your shoot, let us know if there's a particular look or feel you're going for. The more details we have in advance, the more seamlessly we can tailor the session to meet your expectations.
2. During the shoot, relax
Although it sounds easy enough, maintaining a relaxed demeanor during a photoshoot can be quite challenging. If you are feeling tense or uneasy, it is likely to be reflected in your body language and expression, which can have a negative impact on the overall quality of the photograph.
Make sure to keep an eye on your posture and follow the directions during the shoot. If you have any worries or doubts, just give us a heads up - it doesn't matter if it's before or during the shoot. We want you to feel comfortable, so don't be shy about telling us what's on your mind.
3. Dress comfortably, hydrate and get some rest
To avoid those pesky dark circles under your eyes, make sure you drink enough water and get a good night's sleep before the shoot. While picking out what to wear, try to look fashionable but remember that the star of the show is your face, not your outfit. Choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident since your emotions will come through in the pictures.

If you want to go for a traditional business look, you can't go wrong with a classic dark suit. Pick a tie that's a color between your suit and shirt for a stylish and coordinated appearance. To top off your outfit, try wearing a V-neck shirt underneath.

If you want to look business casual, you can leave the jacket behind and wear a colored dress shirt or blouse instead. Go for a shade that's darker than your skin tone for a flattering look. Whether you're going for a formal or laid-back look, it's best to keep your jewelry small and simple.
Feel free to bring along a variety of clothing options to choose from during the shoot. Additionally, make sure that your outfit doesn't bunch up when sitting down or buttoned up. It's best to keep your clothes on a hanger rather than crumpled up.
4. Avoid wearing busy clothing and jewelry
Picking out the right clothes for a headshot can be tough, but it gets easier when you know what not to wear. Stay away from turtlenecks and clothes with big, flashy patterns or colors that distract from your face. Also, avoid wearing things with tiny squares or herringbone patterns. Clothes that are shiny or reflect light should also be off-limits. Those in leadership positions may want to avoid short-sleeved or sleeveless tops, as they draw attention to bare arms.
Also, it's best to steer clear of all white dress shirts or blouses if you're not pairing them with a jacket or sweater. White clothes can make you look flat and washed-out in pictures, and can take away from the details and depth in your face.
Deciding what jewelry to wear can be tough, but the important thing is to make sure it doesn't take away from the picture. It's a good idea to skip earrings that are longer than an inch and shiny, so they don't reflect too much light.
5. Bring a small supply kit
No matter how long your headshot session is, it's important to have a small kit with you to help get the best photos. It's a good idea to bring any old headshots you have to help explain what you want from the shoot. And make sure you have some grooming supplies with you too, like lip balm and a hairbrush, so you can fix up your appearance as needed during the session if needed.
6. Err on the side of simple hair and makeup
If you're going for a professional headshot, it's a good idea to aim for a timeless and classic look with your hair and makeup. Make sure you've styled your hair and put on your makeup before you get to the shoot. And for the best photos, it's usually best to keep your makeup looking natural and clean.
For a shine-free look, apply a layer of translucent powder to your face and neck before your headshot session. This will also help to minimize the appearance of large pores and even out your skin tone. Avoid products with shimmer or sparkles, as well as extremely bright colors.
7. Bonus tip
Have Fun!

A professional headshot is a valuable asset that can be used in many ways, including on company websites, social media accounts, and media opportunities where you may be interviewed or profiled. In today's digital age, having a high-quality headshot readily available is essential. It's especially important for event promotion, where you may be speaking or honored, and for maintaining brand consistency.
Your headshot has the potential to make a lasting impression on your clients and colleagues, showcasing not only your personal brand but also that of your company. In fact, it could be the deciding factor between gaining new business or missing out on valuable opportunities. The power to make a positive impact is in your hands.

Preparing for your Real Estate Photography Session

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Getting your property photo ready.

My goal is to take incredible photos of your home that will knock the socks off of potential buyers and generate offers. To make the photoshoot as smooth and safe as possible, I put together a little preparation checklist for you to follow before I arrive. Trust me, I know that selling a home and moving can be pretty stressful, but my goal is to show off your place in the best possible light and make the process as hassle-free as possible.
A tidy home makes for a seamless photoshoot and beautiful images that truly showcase the charm of your house and interior design. If there are any areas of your home that are extra special to you, just let me know and I'll make sure to give them the attention they deserve.
General Prep

Be shoot-ready: Cleaning and staging needs to be done before I arrive, preferably the day before your photoshoot. I may move small items (flowers, small pictures, etc.) to improve photo composition, but larger items need to be in place before I arrive, and staging accessories need to be in place as well.
Secure or remove pets: I love pets but we can’t have them around for your photoshoot. Dogs must be secured or off the property to ensure the safety of myself and my equipment. MLS rules also prohibit people and pets from being in pictures. Cats should be secured as well, although they usually pose fewer problems than dogs (cats often just hide). It's also a good idea to hide pet food and water bowls as well.
Plan not to be seen: All occupants should plan on either being off the property or remain in areas where they can't be seen during the photoshoot. Rooms overlap in the photos, people can cause shadows and reflections, and there is risk to equipment that will be setup throughout the property.
Use the garage for storage: I normally don’t shoot garages, so this is a great place to store items you’d like to hide.

Outside Prep

Clear the cars: Make sure no cars are in the driveway. If possible, also move cars from the street in front of the home. We want as clear a view as possible of your property.
Do NOT wet driveways: If a wet look is desired, this can be added in the editing process. Watering driveways can cause patches of dry spots and puddles, so adding it in editing is best.
Hide trashcans: Trashcans can be placed on the side of the property or in the garage.
Hide hoses: Do this the day before the shoot since hoses can drip water onto the pavement when being moved, leaving puddles in your pictures.
Mow and trim the yard: Do at least 24 hours prior to your photoshoot.
Turn off sprinklers: Do not water the day of the shoot to prevent puddles on pavement.
Pick up poop: If you have a dog, make sure that all of their droppings are cleared from the yard.
Prep pool and spa: If you have a pool and/or spa, please have them clean with covers removed. For spas, provide instructions to the realtor on how to turn it on.
Prep water features: If you have fountains, waterfalls, etc., please clean them and provide instructions to the realtor on how to turn them on.
Remove for-sale sign: The for-sale sign should be removed from the property or installed after the shoot, since visible signs violate MLS policies and can’t always be edited out.
Clean patio furniture: Dust and remove cobwebs from all outdoor furniture. Do not hose down your furniture the day of your shoot, since this can create puddles. (Seriously, no puddles)

Inside Prep

Declutter kitchen: A few items on the counters are usually fine, but dishes, sponges, rags, etc. should be put away. It's best to remove all magnets, pictures, etc. from the refrigerator and remove throw rugs from the floor.
Declutter bathrooms: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, and other "personal" items should be hidden. Decorative unused soaps, candles, flowers, etc. are preferred. It’s also good to remove all throw rugs from the floor. Put the toilet lids down. Hide plungers, brushes, and trash cans.
Prep bedrooms: All bedrooms should have their beds made and items put away.
Hide trashcans: Trashcans can distract so it’s best to hide all of them in closets or the garage.
Hide portable fans: Ceiling fans are selling items but portable fans can give the wrong impression. It’s best to hide all portable fans in closets or the garage.
Hide cords and remotes: Sometimes electrical cords can’t be hidden, but you will have more appealing pictures if you can hide TV remotes, game consoles, and any noticeable cords.
Clear entryways: Remove all shoes, umbrellas, and similar items from entryways.
Open blinds: Your indoor photos will show outdoor views if there are views, or just light if a window looks onto a neighbor or other unappealing view.
Turn on lights: Before I arrive, please make sure all interior lights are turned on. If need-be, please replace all burned-out bulbs at least 24 hours before the photoshoot. If you'd like to be extra prepared, make sure all bulbs are daylight balanced.
Turn off ceiling fans: Before I arrive, please make sure all ceiling fans are turned off.

Twilight PrepIf you’ve scheduled a twilight shoot the following are additional items to prepare before I arrive. Note that twilights have tight schedules to ensure optimal lighting, so please make sure all of these items are ready before I arrive.

Turn on all interior and exterior lights: All lights throughout the property need to be turned on. Please replace all burned-out bulbs at least 24 hours before the photoshoot.
Turn on spas and remove covers: If you have a spa, remove the cover, and turn it before I arrive. Turn on the lights in the spa as well.
Turn on pool lights: If you have a pool, turn on the pool lights before I arrive.
Turn on water features: If you have fountains, waterfalls, or similar water features, please turn them on before I arrive.

Thank you for your time and patience to go through this checklist! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me anytime.
Click here to get a customizable template of this guide!

What to expect during a Real Estate Photography session

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 20:52:00 GMT

So you've either booked a real estate photography session with us, or you're thinking about it, but you're not quite sure what to expect. While every property is different, here's an idea of what to expect: