Learning Center

Hot Photo Tips

Making sure you use the highest quality photos possible for advertising your property is one of the most important things you can do to to ensure that your potential buyers have a great first impression of your home.

You want to be sure both exterior and interior photos are bright and clear and showcase your home in it's best light. Take the time to review some of the following simple guidelines and you can rest assured that you will be getting the best possible quality photos of your home.

1. Use a high quality camera - A digital is great but any 35 mm camera should be fine. Avoid Polaroids or phone cameras. Take as many photos as possible and then select the best ones.
2. Exterior photos - Contrary to what many people think, a bright sunny day is not always the best choice for taking exterior photos of your home. The sunlight can cause shadows which can block or blur important features of the home. A better alternative can be to take the photos on a slightly overcast day. Always have the sun behind you to avoid any glare and use the correct settings on your camera for light, etc. If there is a nice view you may want to consider including it. Make sure the lawn is mowed, the shrubs are trimmed and the garbage cans are out of sight. Toys and sports equipment should be removed. Park the car at the curb or put it in the garage and close the garage door.
   
   

   BEST TIMES TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR HOME

   If your home faces..

   EAST - take photos in the morning within two hours of sunrise

   WEST - take photos in the evening within 2 hours of sunset

   NORTH - Watch for the time of day when the sun shines on your house. If the house doesn't get any direct sunlight, take it on a bright but slightly overcast day so the sun doesn't cast any unwanted shadows

   SOUTH - take photos in the afternoon when the sun no longer directly overhead

3. Interior photos - In this case a bright sunny day is just what you need. Early afternoon is a good time as the sun casts a warmer glow than at other times of the day. Make sure the rooms are clean and free of clutter. Focus on taking photos of the whole room and including the fabulous features of the home rather than your furnishings. For example, including a photo of your new kitchen island or marble fireplace is more important than that leather sofa you love so much. Buyers are interested in the space itself and not how it is decorated. Again try to keep the sun behind you and make sure that the light is not coming directly into the windows as this may cause an unsightly glare. Draw a shade if necessary to get the shot you want. Most digital cameras have an automatic setting that will help you take the best possible shot.

Remember good photos can mean the difference between a good response to your ad and a weak response. Take the time to do it right and reap the rewards of multiple interested buyers who have been motivated by their positive first impression of your home!

Copyright© 2008 FSBO Publishing Group, Inc., All rights reserved. This material may not be republished without written permission.