REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY FAQ
Below you will find our frequently asked questions categorized by topic. Just click on the menu headings below to view questions related to a particular topic.
General Questions
Why should I hire Pro Property Media, instead of doing it myself?
Many smartphones take excellent photos. However, even the latest smartphone is lacking, due to the absence of a wide angle lens and limited exposure control. Pro Property Media takes multiple exposures of every photo in order to capture the most detail in every room of your listing. In addition, we use a tripod, a remote shutter release, a wide angle lens and dedicated software to produce images that stand out. It’s our comprehensive process that truly makes the difference!
Why should I utilize professional photos?
According to a recent survey by the National Association of Realtors, 88% of buyers use the Internet in their search for a new home. Professional real estate photography scores as one of the most useful tools in making a positive first impression of a property. In addition, according to a recent Wall Street Journal article, real estate listings with professional photos typical command higher asking prices.
What types of payment do you accept?
We take ACH payments or Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover for a 3% fee of total service charge. Payment must be received in full before your photos are delivered. We do NOT accept physical checks.
Do you carry general liability insurance?
Yes.
Do you offer aerial drone photos and videos?
Yes. Please see our aerial services page.
What are your office hours?
We are open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.
Appointment Related Questions
What is required to book a photo shoot?
You will need to provide us with your name, company name, cell phone number and email address. You will also need to let us know what service you would like and if you need any add-on services. Finally, you will need to provide us with the full property address including zip code.
Do you shoot on weekends?
Weekend photo shoots are by special request and are subject to availability.
What is the best time of day to photograph my home?
Please see our Appointments page.
Do you “Over Shoot” the home and allow me to pick the images I want?
In order to provide quick turnaround and affordable prices, we only shoot the number of images your package includes. If you anticipate needing more images of your home, we recommend purchasing a larger photo package.
If I provide the lock box code, will you shoot an unattended home?
Yes. We will shoot unattended homes. For liability and security reasons, it is highly recommended that the agent or agent’s representative be present at the photo shoot.
Photo Related Questions
Do your photo packages include “Photoshop” editing?
All of our packages include our comprehensive Deluxe HDR Image Editing.
Can you “Photoshop” out that crack in the wall?
For ethical and legal reasons, we cannot digitally remove a permanent physical feature of a home. This includes removing cracks in walls or ceilings, removing telephone poles or electrical lines, or modifying any other structural characteristic, deficiency and/or abnormality.
When and how will I receive my photos?
After payment has been received in full, images are typically delivered next business day via electronic download.
What is the resolution of the photos I will receive?
Clients receive two sets of images. The first set contains the high-resolution images (BIG),which are typically 4096 X 2723. These images are great for printed materials and advertisements. The second set contains the web-optimized images (MLS), which are typically 2048 X 1362. These images are great for web, mobile and the MLS. All images are delivered in JPEG format.
Can you upload the photos to MLS for me?
Due to MLS regulations, 3rd party vendors are not allowed to log in to MLS under an agent’s name and password.
What if I am not satisfied with my images?
Customer service is very important to us. We try extra hard to make sure you are satisfied with your photos. If for some reason you are not satisfied, please contact us immediately.
Video Related Questions
What types of real estate videos do you offer?
We offer walk-through videos, drone teaser videos and custom videos.
Will you host my real estate videos?
We do not provide video hosting. We recommend clients utilize a third party video hosting provider, such as YouTube or Vimeo.
Do you offer drone videos or custom videos?
Yes. Please see our pricing page.
Matterport Related Questions
What is a Matterport 3D Showcase?
It’s a fully interactive, 360 degree, 3-dimensional representation of the interior which allows the viewer to “walk” through the property, look up and down, and move from floor to floor.
What rooms are included?
We will scan any accessible parts of the property where the Matterport camera and tripod can be safely positioned. Small closets/pantries and garages are generally not included; however, the garage can be included upon request. Unfinished spaces are usually included unless otherwise requested. Please note that we will scan as much as possible in order to have a more complete floor plan and dollhouse view, but certain rooms can be disabled if you don’t wish to have them accessible in the walk through.
How long does it take to scan a property?
Length of the shoot varies depending on conditions such as lighting and layout but, generally, you should anticipate 1 hour per 1,000 square feet.
Do you include the exterior?
In most cases, no. The Matterport camera is designed for indoor use; however, depending on the weather conditions, it may be possible to successfully scan exterior features such as patios and decks. Such spaces are not included in the basic price and cannot be guaranteed.
Do I still need professional photos?
While it is possible to capture screenshots from the Matterport model, they are low-resolution and generally not a good alternative to professional photos.
How soon will I receive the completed model?
The completed model is usually delivered within 24 hours.
What is included in the final product?
You receive the Showcase (walkthrough), Dollhouse, and Floorplan Views. Links to the model include: a Branded view that can be used for social media and/or sent to clients; an Unbranded view that complies with MLS requirements. If you wish to embed the model into your website, we can provide you with the necessary HTML code.
If I see something in the model that I don’t want to show, can it be edited?
No. Unlike still photos, Matterport models cannot be edited. Please see our Home Prep Tips.
Can I download the Matterport model to my computer?
No, Matterport models are stored on the Matterport servers and are only accessible via an Internet connection.
How long will the model be available for viewing?
Matterport models are hosted for 6 months. Additional 6 months of hosting incur a $50 fee. We can transfer the model to your own Matterport account for no additional cost.
Will I be able to stay in the property while it’s being scanned?
It’s important that no people or pets be in the property during the scanning process.
Experienced Professionals
Faster Sales, Higher Average Prices, More Listing Viewers
With over 15 years photography experience and many satisfied customers.