The Difference Between Real Estate & Architectural/Editorial Style Photography
When it comes to photographing houses there is actually a lot more to consider than most people think. In this post I will talk about the differences between the 2 main purposes why someone might get a property photographed and these are 1. Selling a house (Real estate photography) and 2. Showcasing the design and architectural features of the property for an Architect/Interior Designer/ Builder’s portfolio.
Let me talk about the main differences between these 2 styles of photography.
Real Estate Photography
The purpose of this style of photography is to showcase the overall look of the house by getting as wide and as much information into the frame as possible so that people can see everything in each room as if they were standing there. This is why most shots are taken from a corner of the room (usually by the doorway/entrance of the room) and angled so you see from wall to wall. When shooting real estate it is also very common to have all the lights on in the house, this is to emit a warm, glowing feeling. Technique wise a wide angled lens is used and a flash/speedite is attached to the top of the camera to give off extra light into the rooms and make them look as bright as possible. Most the time when it comes to real estate photography it is more about a formula made up of the same angled shots, similar techniques and the grand hero shot of the twilight facade. Retouching of photos can also be done quite quickly and less attention paid to detail. Distracting objects or features are not usually removed and the end result is usually not a clean edited image. Now don’t get me wrong this style of photography can look good when shot a bit more creatively and for the purposes of selling a house but if you are an Architect, Designer or Builder you want your work to stand out and your design to shine through. This is where a different style of photography needs to be considered.
Architectural/Interior Photography
When it comes to this style of photography it should be quite evident the difference between real estate photography. Architectural photography takes a more editorial/lifestyle approach and mainly is shot in natural light meaning no lights are on in the house. This natural lighting helps eliminate the warm or cool colour casts artificial lights emit. Having no lights on also eliminates harsh shadows or hotspots on reflective surfaces such as kitchen benchtops. An architectural photographer will also take the time to carefully compose an image and use both landscape and portrait formats to frame their composition. Square on compositions are usually preferred to eliminate distortions and close up shots within the home are also a point of difference to really capture those details. Objects are moved or rearranged to make sure that perfect shot is captured. Attention to detail is crucial in capturing this style of photography as it all makes a difference to the overall quality of work produced.
In terms of technicality architectural photography is usually shot with no flash, rather a series of exposures are taken which are then blended in photoshop to create a natural look where neither the highlights are blown out or shadows too dark with no details. Considerable time is also taken in post production of the images, making sure all verticals and horizontals are straight. Colour correction is a must, distracting objects removed such as ugly exhaust fans in bathrooms, air con switches on walls, power lines antennas visible in the backyard or facade etc.
Overall it is important to choose the right style of photography for your purpose and to keep it consistent throughout your website and socials. Professional photography can really make the difference in your business so take the time to look at photographer’s portfolio and see if their style draws your attention. Pay attention to the differences because they are definitely there.
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