6 Common Misconceptions about Real Estate Photography
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Are you eager to jump into the profession of real estate photography but hesitant due to the numerous industry myths? Fear not! In this article, we’ll debunk six common misconceptions about real estate photography, providing you with a fresh perspective on starting and growing your business. Let’s dive in!
1. Misconception 1: Gear is Too Expensive
One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that real estate photography requires expensive equipment. However, this is far from the truth. When starting out, you can go for an affordable camera and a basic tripod, and gradually work your way up. It’s important to learn the fundamentals and gain experience before investing in top-of-the-line gear. Even today, you can achieve remarkable results with reasonably priced equipment. Remember, your gear should be a tool that helps you make money, not a constant drain on your finances.
Read more: Camera Settings for Real Estate Photography: HDR, Flash & Videos
2. Misconception 2: You Can’t Do It Part-Time
Contrary to popular belief, you can pursue real estate photography on a part-time basis. By scheduling early morning shoots, utilizing weekends, and focusing on twilight sessions, you can gradually build your portfolio and clientele. Eventually, with dedication and experience, you can transition to full-time photography. Part-time work is an essential stepping stone towards a full-time career.
3. Misconception 3: You Must Do All the Editing Yourself
Editing plays a crucial role in enhancing your real estate photos, but it doesn’t mean you have to handle all the editing tasks alone. Most starting photographers took pride in doing their own editing but soon realized the efficiency and expertise of professional editors. Outsourcing editing to experienced individuals or agencies, particularly those overseas, not only saves you time but also ensures superior results. These professionals focus solely on editing and can deliver stunning images promptly, freeing up your time to scale your business.
4. Misconception 4: Giving Away Free Shoots
Another real estate misconceptions is that you need to give away free shoots at the beginning of your career. While some suggest giving away free shoots as a strategy to attract clients, it’s not always necessary. Instead of offering entire shoots for free, consider providing enticing add-ons, such as a complimentary aerial drone shot, to clients who book paid shoots. High-end clients typically value and are willing to pay for quality and excellent service. By focusing on delivering a premium experience, you’ll attract clients who appreciate your expertise and professionalism.
5. Misconception 5: You Have to Work Weekends
Working weekends is often perceived as a requirement in real estate photography, especially during the initial stages. However, as you establish yourself in the industry, you can gain more control over your schedule. Most agents prefer weekday shoots, allowing you to have more flexibility and personal time. By effectively managing client expectations and setting clear availability, you can minimize weekend work. While occasional weekend shoots may be necessary, they become the exception rather than the norm.
6. Misconception 6: Only Expensive Properties Require Professional Photography
Some may believe that professional photography is only necessary for high-end or luxury properties. However, the way people purchase properties has changed. With a staggering 88% of potential buyers relying on online platforms for their property search, the initial interaction they have with your property is through its visual representation. Consequently, establishing the perfect perception of a property among prospective buyers becomes paramount when preparing it for sale, regardless of its price range. By offering your services to a wide range of properties, you expand your client base and showcase your versatility as a photographer.
Conclusion
Real estate photography offers a rewarding career path filled with exciting opportunities. By debunking these six misconceptions, we’ve shown that you don’t need expensive gear, you can start part-time, outsourcing editing can enhance your efficiency, giving away free shoots is not always required, and working weekends is not a lifelong commitment. As you embark on your real estate photography journey, remember to stay passionate, continuously improve your skills, and provide exceptional service. The sky’s the limit in this thriving industry.
Let Fotober know if you found this article helpful or if you have any other misconceptions you’d like us to address. Until next time, happy shooting!
