What is the best time of day to photograph a home?
My preferred times to shoot interiors is when the sun is overhead, rather than shining through the windows. 11am – 2pm has always been ideal for me. While this will usually work for exteriors as well and will avoid the sun being in the way, the best time to shoot exteriors is either at twilight or during the best weather conditions (sunny with some clouds is optimal). If we book a twilight session, we will meet at sunset to make sure all the lights are on and usually start shooting around 10 minutes after sunset. If we need to meet earlier or later in the day and have optimal weather throughout the day, I will check to see what direction the house faces for the best lighting.
Do you still shoot on cloudy or rainy days?
Yes, I still shoot on cloudy days unless it is a high end property with a flexible timeline. I prefer to reschedule on rainy days, but if we are on a tight timeline and it is only lightly raining, we can go ahead and shoot it even though the photos will not be quite as good quality. If the weather is especially dreary, I might recommend doing a virtual twilight on the exteriors.
Do you work on the weekends?
Not normally, but when it gets busy or if you have specific needs, I will try to accommodate you on Saturdays if I am available. If we shoot on a Saturday, you will not get the photos back until Monday morning.
When will I get the photos back?
I guarantee photos back the next business day, usually the morning. We can always discuss your deadline. Large homes with more photos take more work and may ask for additional time to ensure the best quality.
How many photos will I get?
I do not estimate or limit how many photos I deliver. I do a “full report” on the listing and never have any complaints. This includes multiple angles of all the exteriors and main areas of the home as well as at least one photo of each room, such as secondary bedrooms and bathrooms.
How long does the shoot last?
It depends on the size of the listing, but an average home will take me about one hour. If it is a large home well above 4,000 square feet, it could take me up to two hours. This also depends on whether you are adding more services on top of photos, such as video or Matterport. You can always ask me ahead of time before the shoot how much time you think it will take and I will be happy to give you an estimate.
How should I get the listing ready for photography?
Exteriors - Start by enhancing the appearance of your front yard. The day before the photoshoot, make sure to tidy up your landscaping, including trimming bushes and trees, clearing debris, and removing any unattractive elements, such as water hoses or signs. If the photoshoot is taking place during the fall, rake up the leaves. To further enhance the look of your home’s exterior, remove any cars from the driveway and open curtains and blinds. This should be done just 5 minutes before the photoshoot begins. Similar to the front yard, tidy up your landscaping and remove any debris, BBQ grills, or other items that detract from the aesthetic of your backyard. If you have a pool, have it cleaned the day before the photoshoot.
Interiors - Remove anything that detracts from the beauty of your home, including clutter, visible power cords and cables, and products in the kitchen and bathroom. If you need to store excess items, move them to the garage. Minimalism is key when it comes to creating visually appealing photos. Ensure that the lighting in your home is working properly and the blinds are in good condition. If there are any repairs or painting that need to be done, take care of them before the photographer arrives. During the photoshoot, turn off all fans to avoid disrupting the lighting. The laundry room and walk in closets can be a great focal point in photos, but make sure it is clean and free of clutter. Last but not least, please put toilet seats down and remove any pet related items.
How far in advance should I book the shoot?
As soon as possible! It is first come first served, so the sooner you book the more likely it is that I will be available.
What if I need to cancel?
Things happen - please just try to tell me before I get in the car! I don’t like to charge for a service that I didn’t provide, but if I end up having to make an unnecessary trip there is usually a $50 fee. However, I am usually very understanding when there are things out of your control and do not always implement this charge.
How much do you charge for photographs?
Please head over to my order form to see a list of all my services and prices.
How do I pay you?
I will email you a payment link via Square when I am finished with editing your photos. Payment is required before photos are delivered.
Do you upload to MLS?
No, I don’t.
Do you charge travel fees?
No, not in the greater Houston area. If you have a shoot out of the area, I suggest adding several additional services to make it worth the drive as opposed to charging a travel fee.
Can I give the photos to someone?
Please contact me before giving the photos to anyone. I don’t mind you if you use them for your personal website or social media as a courtesy, but please have any outside parties interested contact me as I still own the rights to the photos.
Do I need to be present at the shoot and/or do you have a Supra?
Sorry, I don’t currently have Supra, but you do not need to be present at the shoot. Please provide me with a combo lock if you can’t be present at the shoot.