Frequently Asked Questions - Real Estate Photography

Why do I need professional real estate photography images of my home? Aren't simple snapshots enough?

The real reason you need professional real estate photography is because of the internet. The way buyers shop for everything has drastically changed. They can select from several hundred items--and narrow them down to 2 or 3--in less than an hour. The decisions they make, whether buying a shirt, or buying a home, are going to rest on the emotional reaction they attach to the visual images they see. 

Will professional real estate photography sell my home?

Personally, I think real estate photography is the single most important thing you can do to sell your home. But, the answer to this question is no. Photography alone will not seel your home. The goal of these real estate photographs is not to sell your home. It isn't likely someone will write you a check without seeing the home in person. The goal of these real estate photographs is to get the buyer interested enough to get them to contact the real estate agent.

How long will this take?

Professional real estate photography sessions usually takes an hour, more or less. Every home is different. I stay until I'm sure I've captured the beauty and feel of your home. 

How do I get ready for professional real estate photography?

I always tell agents and homeowners to prepare as if they were getting the home ready for the most important buyer they can imagine. Remember, this is going to be a buyer's introduction to the home. We want to grab their attention and invite them to visit their new home. Clear away the clutter, put away personal and sensitive belongings, make the beds and fluff the pillows, keep pets and their items out of view when possible, and put trash cans around back, or in the garage.  

Who owns the real estate photographs?

Good question. The photographer owns the right. It's just like buying a music CD or downloading a song. You get the songs to listen to forever. But you don't own the songs--the musician does. You can't re-record the album and start selling it on the street. I share the pictures with real estate agents, and they can share them with the homeowners. You can print them, post them to Facebook, keep them forever. However, if Southern Living Magazine wants to use the photograph of the kitchen for a feature spread, that's where I come back into the picture to license images to them.