Successful Hotels and Apartments around Metro Atlanta place a huge value on quality real estate photography. Just as 9 out of 10 prospective home buyers use the internet to find their next home, hotel and apartment tenants are really no different. The images these prospective tenants see play a major role in their decision to take a closer look. With over 75,000 hotel rooms and hundreds of apartment communities across Atlanta and the surrounding cities, tenants have more choices than ever before. Too few or poor quality photos will lead to many missed opportunities. The right amount of effective images, on the other hand, can be one of the most powerful marketing tools an Atlanta Hotel or Apartment community can possess. Having created literally thousands of imagesspecifically for the purpose of marketing residential and multi-family real estate, I understand these facts shouldn't be taken lightly. This blog discusses how a photographer specializing in interior, landscape and architectural photography can ensure prospective tenants are engaged with the type of imagery that motivate them to take action.
As both a licensed real estate agent in Marietta and an Atlanta real estate photographer, I understand how important these images can be to a marketing campaign. Today's consumers are better equipped technologically and have better access to the internet at speeds faster than ever before. The days of slow loading images and consequently low resolution photos are a thing of the past. Modern consumers have grown to expect a higher quality in presentation and the ability to deliver that online only helps to validate the reputation and credibility of an Atlanta Hotel or Apartment community. Larger and clearer photos are just the beginning, however. It is true that what you show is just as important as how you show it. For that reason, a wide variety of images that capture the atmosphere and lifestyle of the Hotel or Apartmentare crucial.
Among the most important images that an Atlanta Hotel or Apartment community should have in no short supply are interior photos. Clean, well lit images of one or multiple modelrooms or apartments are the foundation of an effective online photo gallery. Portraying spaces like kitchens, master bedrooms and baths, living areas and even secondary bedrooms and bathrooms in their best possible light make it easy for a prospective tenant to see themselves living or staying in such a place. These galleries should be diversified with both informational and emotive imagery. It is important not only to give the viewer a idea of the flow of the floor plan but also give them a "feel" for the ambiance the space offers.
High quality images of all common areas, such as a clubhouse, business center, gym or exercise room, laundry, courtyards or entertaining areas are also mandatory. In addition to multiple views of key features like swimming pools or tennis courts, these images help to establish the quality of the amenities offered by the hotel or apartment. In areas where prices are very competitive, the amenity package can be a deciding factor. In some cases, the amenities are the deciding factor from the beginning of the tenants search. If there is true value in the apartment or hotel's amenity package, great images will only drive that point home.
When customers search for "Atlanta Hotels" or "Atlanta Apartments", they often want to know more about the surrounding area and businesses. Incorporating high quality photos of important local businesses and familiar landmarks help tie the property to larger scale convenience. After all, location is still one of the top priorities for most tenants and if a good location is part of the hotel or apartment's virtues then it should be presented that way. Shopping, restaurants, night life, parks, schools... if they are a part of the properties appeal they can help add to the overall value.
While there are no shortage of Atlanta photographers that may excel in one or two of the many specialized areas of real estate photography, there are few that possess the entire skill set. Because of the limited time and financial limitations of many Atlanta hotels and apartments, the photographer must be able to produce both high quality and quantity with minimum resources. With that in mind, this Atlanta real estate photographer has fine tuned his methods and techniques to deliver just that; publication quality photography at an affordable price. If you are currently in need of new or updated images for your Apartment community or Hotel in Metro Atlanta, now is the time to act! Don't wait, call me now at 770-363-3350.
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I invite you to take a closer look at my Atlanta real estate photography services. Should you still have more questions you can probably find answers on my Atlanta real estate photography frequently asked questions page. Information about my current rates can be found on my Atlanta real estate photography pricing page. Atlanta Real Estate Photographer Iran Watson services all of the Metro Atlanta area including Cobb, Cherokee, Fulton and Paulding counties and the cities of Marietta, Kennesaw, Roswell, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Woodstock, Acworth, Atlanta, Dunwoody, Holly Springs, Vinings and Buckhead.
This blog was originally posted in its entirety by the author Iran Watson at http://iranwatsonphoto.com/atlanta-hotel-and-apartment-photography/ on November 13, 2011.
As an Atlanta Real Estate photographer and real estate agent in Marietta I have spent my fair share of time at the computer editing photos. Most of the time I get it right "in camera" and the image needs very little post processing. Other times either the challenge onsite is beyond what I am able to capture with a single frame, a mistake was made or there is simply no way to get what I want due to obstructions or other distracting elements. At this point, a decision has to be made. Do you settle for "good enough" or do seek out the means to achieve greatness? When it comes to real estate photography, specifically images that are created with the sole purpose of getting an audiences attention quickly, I rarely see an option.
Having created literally thousands of images for my real estate agent clients, as well as my own listings, I have encountered pretty much every scenario you can think of when it comes problem photos. Mixed lighting sources, dimly lit rooms with daylight blasting through the windows, distortion from having to shot from a less than idea angle, poor weather, the list goes on and on... but, for each of these issues, there is often a solution. It's not always a quick and easy fix, but the right talent and expertise will ultimately find a way to overcome these challenges. The result is often something so unique and unexpected, it almost seems like magic.
Recently I had a shoot where I was to photography a condo complex in Gatlinburg, TN for a good friend of the family. This complex sits high on a hill over looking the Gatlinburg strip. When it comes to views, there are few condo complexes that afford the views of this one. The problem for me as the photographer, however, was that it was near impossible to show this place in its entirety from anywhere on the ground in the immediate vicinity. In fact, I had to go to the top of another hotel almost a block away just to get a shot that showed the whole building. So after climbing to the top of this eight story building I thought my problem was solved. Well, I thought wrong. It did indeed have the view that I wanted, but all throughout the foreground overhead utility and power lines obstructed the view! Short of renting a helicopter, there was simply no other way to get the shot. I proceeded to take my photo and hoped that my Photoshop skills would once again save the day.
About an hour into editing (yes, an hour... on one photo...) I realized that I had bit off more than I could chew. I needed a pro and a talented one at that. Thankfully, my friends over in the Flickr Photography for Real Estate group answered my call. Within an hour, I had not one, but two, of the finest retouchers in the business on the case. Both of their results, while somewhat different in the extent of work, were nothing short of amazing. Below are before and after images that I think speak for themselves.
"After" image courtesy of Darren Sutherland, darren@retouchcanada.com
"After" image courtesy of Shawn Clabough, photo retoucher www.expertstouchphotography.com
Needless to say, these examples are somewhat on the extreme side of what a professional retoucher would do in regards to real estate images and are priced accordingly. So does that mean the only time a retoucher is justified is when there is a serious issue? Of course not! Perhaps your main exterior photo lacks that snap that is needed to help the photo jump off the page at a prospective buyer... maybe you want that expensive print ad to get a potential buyers attention the second they lay eyes on it... or maybe, that perfect headshot just needs a different color blouse...
The point I hope I have driven home with this post is that a good retoucher can be an invaluable asset to both real estate agents and photographers alike. Even if you are somewhat proficient with photo editing software, the time and money these guys can save you can easily surpass their fees. I admit I'm stubbornly an avid DIYer, but there comes a time when calling in a real specialist is the best for all involved. I mean we all know that, right? We use that logic to sell our services all the time, both as agents and photographers. So the next time you are faced with that decision to either settle for "good enough" or do what it takes to make it great, shoot these guys an email.
*This blog post was originally published at iranwatsonphoto.com on August 14, 2011.
As an Atlanta Real Estate photographer and real estate agent in Marietta most of my photo shoots are somewhere in Metro Atlanta, mostly Cobb, Cherokee and Fulton County. If you know any photographers, however, you know they take a camera with them everywhere and I'm no exception. Even vacations end up with one or two impromptu photo shoots. Recently, I brought my gear along on a weekend trip to one of my favorite places in the South, Gatlinburg, TN.
My family has been vacationing in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN long before I was even born. Even though these two family friendly, Smoky Mountains tourist spots have grown considerably over the last 30+ years we've been going, there is something that always feels the same when I go there; something familiar and always welcoming. I could never capture everything these places have to offer in a single trip so there are likely to be many more of these posts in the future.
One of the best times to get out and see the sights is definitely after dark. Hopefully these images will show you why. Here are a few of my favorites.
* Licensing available for all images, copyright Iran Watson Photo 2011. Do not use without permission.
Do you, or someone you know, need commercial quality photography for Vacation Rentals, Cabins, Hotels, Bed and Breakfasts or any other business related to real estate in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, TN? I can help! Call 770-363-3350 or learn more about Atlanta Real Estate Photography here.
This home has such a classic, Craftsman style exterior. It fits right in with the style of architecture that is prevalent around Historic Marietta. This is one of the kind of images that comes to mind when I think "Southern Living".
In addition to the great work done by the interior designers and artists, the home itself was full of character.
The kitchen was certainly the heart of this home. The open floor plan allowed the Kitchen, dining and living areas to all flow together seamlessly.
One of three bedrooms on the upper level, each with its own theme inspired by a different piece of art.
I saved the best for last! This master bedroom was my favorite but it wasn't an easy decision. Every designer and artist that contributed to the 2011 Marietta Art & Design Showhouse did a remarkable job!
I hope you get as much enjoyment from these images as I did creating them! ILWThis blog was originally posted at iranwatsonphoto.com on 06/14/2011
March, 2011 Canon released its newest evolution in its EOS line with the T3i. As an Atlanta Real Estate Photographer, I have always been a big fan of the EOS line. Not only do they deliver just about every feature a real estate photographer really needs, but they are affordable as well. What surprised me about this new model is how fast it followed on the heels of the popular T2i which was released barely a year ago. At the time it was being touted as the new king of cheap HD DSLR video even though the camera itself is a direct predecessor of what has traditionally been Canon's entry level still photography cameras. So its not surprising that many of the new features appear, at first glance anyway, to cater to those that intend to use the camera to shoot video. Upon closer inspection, I'm finding that these new features, in addition to all the improvements made since the T1i, are making this model more and more attractive for those that photograph real estate and/or have the desire to move into video.
Before I get into the new features added in the T3i model, I want to mention some of the others that made the T1i and T2i so popular. Here is a quick rundown of what you need to know as someone looking to shoot home interiors and other listing photography.
Basically your bases are covered for a still photography body. Where things really get interesting is the fact that it shots HD Video at 1920 x 1080 (otherwise known as 1080p) at 24, 25 or 30p. In other words, the camera is capable of producing that "cinema" look. Of course resolution and frame rate are one thing. Where I feel that this camera, and video capable DSLR camera's in general, are game changing is that fact that you can utilize all of the good lenses used for still photography. In order to match this feature set in a bona fide video camera, you would have to spend thousands... Being able to bring this level of creative videography to the masses is going to change the way the average person shoots and thinks about video. For those that are truly inspired you could just about produce a short film about a listing, or a professional looking video bio, or a community tour... The possibilities are endless, just take a look at this promo video.
Of the new features to the T3i, one of the ones I find most interesting is the articulating LCD screen. This flip out, rotating screen is the same screen on the 60D and will undoubtedly make shooting video a little more intuitive, especially when using the camera at odd angles or perspectives. I also see a use for this new screen in photographing real estate, specifically interiors. Having shot literally thousands of images of homes for sale in Atlanta, GA there have been several occasions where my best shot was one in which I could not physically be behind the camera. In most of these situations I either guessed at my composition or made a compromise and quickly found myself in an some awkward position trying to look through the viewfinder with the camera shoved into a corner. It may not sound like much on the surface, but being able to move the camera back an extra foot or two, or being able to shoot at a few mm longer on a lens can make a noticeable difference when you are working with ultra wide angle lenses.
But wait, there is more! Along with the T3i Canon also announced two new speedlites, the 270EX II and 320EX. While the lights have some impressive stats, what makes the package complete is that the T3i can control the flashes wirelessly. Instead of spending extra money on triggers and receivers, everything can be done through the camera. If that wasn't enough, the 320EX also has a LED continuous light function that makes these strobes a possible solution to off camera lighting for the purpose of video. A T3i with three or four 320EXs could easily double as a still photography and video rig. Of course there is always the question of battery drain and no doubt you would have to have a bag of rechargeable batteries on hand, but according to Canon these lights can last up to four hours on a fresh set. I'll believe it when I see it... If in fact the T3i proves capable of triggering up to four lights for stills and then having them double as supplemental light for video, that is worth something right there.
Everything considered, I'm impressed. The T3i is loaded with features that a real estate photographer, listing agent or home stager can appreciate. The ability to do both still photography and video in one package frees up the photographer to branch out into the world of video while simultaneously covering all the basic needs of still photography. Now there is also the option of triggering multiple strobes from the camera and in conjunction with the new 320EX speedlights, supplemental lighting for video is also possible. All of this, and more, and still costing less than $900 with the kit lens. Now I'm not the early adopter type, so I will wait until that price drops another couple hundred dollars and Canon has a chance to do the obligatory firmware update. For those of you that are ready to take the plunge now, I can't think of a better camera to get you started in photography and video for real estate.
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Cobb Co, Ga Real Estate Agent and Atlanta Real Estate Photographer based in Marietta. I specialize in homes for sale in Marietta using professional photography, virtual tours and video.
I've been involved in Residential and Commerical Building and Real Estate for 18+ years. As a lifelong Cobb County resident, growing up in the Atlanta real estate business has been an invaluable experience for me. I didn't just decide to do real estate one day, I was literally born into the business. Passing the benefit of that along to my clients allows my team to offer a unique value proposition. We provide the type of insight to the real estate transaction that only experienced agents with a passion for what they do can offer.
The internet has revolutionized the way we buy and sell homes. With over 90% of buyers looking on the internet for their next home we understand how critically important it is that the first impression is a good and lasting one. We set ourselves apart from other listing agents by offering the expertise and talent of some of Atlanta's best photographers, videographers, home-stagers and designers. Together this team creates both a physical and online presence that is unlike anything a traditional agent could accomplish alone.
As both an Atlanta real estate agent and and real estate photographer, I know first hand how important quality images are to getting people through the door. I understand the challenges of an Atlanta real estate agent because I have been in their shoes. This unique perspective allows me to better anticipate their needs and troubleshot potential issues long before they become a real problem. Most importantly, through my experience as a real estate photography specialist I have developed an approach to photographing homes that allows my to recreate any look from "exactly as you see it" to creative, story-telling imagery. If you are looking for a versatile, reliable and talented Atlanta Real Estate Photographer I'm your guy. Feel free to browse my gallery of recent Atlanta Real Estate Photography or go right to my Real Estate Photography services page to learn about all the different types of professional photography I offer.
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