Drone photography has become a popular and effective way to capture stunning aerial images of homes for real estate and short term rental listings. If you're planning a drone photoshoot to showcase your property, proper preparation is key to ensure the best results.
In this blog post, we'll provide you with essential tips and guidelines to get your home ready for a drone photoshoot, ensuring that you make the most of this innovative and captivating technology. You won't regret it!
Clean and Declutter the Exterior:
First impressions matter, + that applies to the exterior of your home as well. Take the time to clean and declutter the outdoor areas. Remove any debris, garden tools, or toys that may clutter the yard. Trim overgrown trees and shrubs to ensure clear lines of sight from the drone's perspective. Consider adding some fresh plants or flowers to enhance the overall appeal of the property.
Remove Obstacles and Hazards:
Drones require clear flight paths to capture the best images. Identify any potential obstacles, such as patio furniture, umbrellas, or sports equipment, that may obstruct the drone's movement. Temporary obstacles, such as vehicles, should be moved away from the property. This will give a nice, clean look to the property. Remember, if someone sees a well-kept home, they will be way more likely to purchase or rent the home (it's all psychological).
Address Maintenance and Repairs:
Inspect the exterior of your home for any visible maintenance or repair issues. Look for loose shingles, damaged siding, or chipped paint. Make necessary repairs or touch-ups to ensure the property looks its best in the drone photographs. Pay attention to small details like replacing burnt-out light bulbs, cleaning windows, and ensuring all exterior features are in good working condition. (Side note: While a lot of these can be fixed using Photoshop, it can be timely and will cost you more money in editing time in the end. Getting this right IN camera is really the key!)
Enhance Curb Appeal:
Curb appeal plays a significant role in attracting potential buyers and renters. Prior to the drone photoshoot, enhance the visual appeal of your property's exterior. Consider adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door or revamping the landscaping to create an inviting atmosphere. Well-maintained lawns, neatly trimmed hedges, and colorful flower beds can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic of the property. Perhaps, if possible, plan to have your aerial shoot when your yard looks best, most likely spring and summer (or autumn if you are in Vermont).
Coordinate with the Photographer:
Collaborating with the drone photographer is essential for a successful photoshoot. Discuss your vision and expectations, highlighting any specific areas or features you want to showcase. Share any relevant information about the property, such as unique architectural elements or stunning views, to help the photographer plan the shots effectively. Consider scheduling the photoshoot during the golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, to capture the best lighting conditions*
*We HIGHLY recommend scheduling drone shoots at magic hour.
Notify Neighbors:
Drone photography involves the presence of a flying device, which may cause concern or curiosity among your neighbors. To avoid any unexpected surprises or interruptions, inform your neighbors about the scheduled photoshoot. Assure them of the photographer's professionalism and explain the purpose of the session. This courtesy gesture can help create a cooperative atmosphere and ensure a smooth and uninterrupted photoshoot. Piloting a drone takes extreme attentional to detail. There are a plethora of things to keep track of (altitude level, flight paths, wind speeds, flying birds, battery levels, location of the drone, camera and video settings and so much more), that the last thing we need it be interrupted while we are in the sky. Not only will it interrupt the flight, it is extremely dangerous; we need to be able to have complete focus when in flight.
Preparing your home for a drone photoshoot requires attention to detail and a bit of planning. By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your property looks its best and captivates potential buyers and renters with stunning aerial images. From cleaning and decluttering the exterior to addressing maintenance and repairs, every step you take contributes to the overall success of the drone photoshoot. So, get your home ready, collaborate with a skilled drone photographer, and prepare to showcase your property from a captivating and unique perspective that will leave potential buyers in awe.
Contact us to set up an aerial photo or video shoot!