Hiring a Professional Real Estate Photographer? Here Are 8 Questions to Ask!

Hiring a professional real estate photographer is more than a nice advantage when preparing a property for the market; it’s a game-changer! High-quality photos can significantly boost online engagement, enhance first impressions, attract higher asking prices, and get buyers from online to through the door faster. But with so many photographers out there, choosing the right one is crucial. Your property deserves the best, and you need a photographer who understands how to showcase it at its finest. To help you find the perfect fit, here are 8 questions to ask before making your choice.

1. What Experience Do You Have?

Find out how long the photographers you’re considering have been working in real estate photography and what kinds of properties they’ve captured. Are they familiar with the local real estate market trends and how properties are being presented online and viewed by buyers? A savvy marketing eye is required to consider the best angles, lighting, and perspectives that create captivating and informative images. A picture says a thousand words, after all!

2. What Equipment & Certifications Do You Have?

When you’re investing in a professional real estate photographer, it’s important to know what they’re investing in themselves. From industry certifications to the latest technology and equipment, find out what they’re doing to elevate their business above the competition. What type of camera lenses and editing software do they use? Are they equipped with 3D Matterport technology? Do they hold a drone license and their Part 107 Certification?

3. What Is Your Editing Process Like?

Ask more about their editing process, from basic adjustments to more advanced corrections. Color correction, exposure adjustment, contrast enhancement, and more are vital parts of bringing out the best in every image. Find out if these are included or available as add-on services, and ask if they offer any revisions after editing is done. Understanding their editing style and flexibility ensures your photos shine and accurately represent the property.

4. How Quickly Can You Provide the Finished Images?

What is their turnaround time like? Inquire about the expected timeframe between the photoshoot, editing process, and receiving your final images. Check if there’s an option for expedited services to meet your specific timeline needs. You can plan around this knowledge and have your listing and marketing materials ready to go as soon as the photos are done. The market moves fast, as do you, so your photographer should, too!

5. What Is Your Pricing Structure?

Understand the comprehensive breakdown of costs and what services are covered. Ask about potential additional fees for travel, editing, or any other services. While a professional real estate photographer may cost more than a DIY approach, it’s crucial to weigh the cost against the value and expertise you’ll gain. This transparency empowers you to compare offerings and ensure your investment aligns with the exceptional results you deserve.

6. Do You Have References & Examples to Share?

While most photographers have a website portfolio, requesting specific samples aligned with your property type offers deeper insight into their style and capabilities. Additionally, ask for client testimonials and references for firsthand accounts of their professionalism and results. This comprehensive approach ensures you choose a photographer whose work resonates with your vision and whose client experience fulfills your expectations.

7. What Happens If I Need to Reschedule?

Life throws curveballs sometimes, so you need to ensure there’s clear communication throughout. Can they accommodate rescheduling within a specified timeframe, and what’s the preferred contact method for last-minute changes? Ask about their bad weather contingency plan, including rescheduling options and potential editing techniques for bluer skies. Clarity on these aspects aids a seamless collaboration even when unexpected changes arise.

8. Do You Help with Small Staging Details?

While professional photographers capture the essence of your property, don’t underestimate the power of a prepared presentation. Uncover the photographer’s level of staging support in the process. Do they offer minor adjustments like straightening rugs and fluffing pillows, or should such preparations be done beforehand? Knowing their role in the finer details aids in creating visually appealing images that effectively showcase your property.

Are you looking for a professional real estate photographer? Reach out to us today by phone, email, or through our website! We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about Square Foot Photography’s services and expertise. You can also view samples of our work for residential and commercial properties on our website.