Every home has something that sets it apart from the competition—a unique feature, an architectural detail, or a prime location. These special points of interest are often what catch a buyer’s eye and make them fall in love with the property. As a photographer or realtor, it’s your job to make sure these unique features are highlighted in the listing.
In this post, we’ll dive into how to identify and showcase special points of interest in real estate photography. By drawing attention to these standout features, you can create a listing that not only captures buyers’ attention but also gives them a reason to choose this property over others.
What Qualifies as a Special Point of Interest?
A special point of interest is anything that makes the property stand out. It could be a unique architectural feature, an impressive renovation, or even the home’s location. Here are a few examples of common points of interest:
- Architectural Details: Exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, crown molding, or intricate woodwork.
- Modern Upgrades: Recently renovated kitchens, bathrooms, or smart home technology.
- Location: Proximity to desirable amenities like schools, parks, shopping centers, or waterfront access.
- Outdoor Features: Swimming pools, outdoor kitchens, large decks, or landscaped gardens.
- Historical Features: If the home is older, original elements like hardwood floors, stained glass windows, or fireplaces can add charm and appeal.
How to Highlight Special Points of Interest
- Consult with the Realtor or Seller The realtor or seller will often have specific features they want to highlight in the listing. Before the shoot, ask them what they believe sets the home apart from others. This will help you create a shot list that focuses on the most important aspects of the property.
- Capture Close-Up Shots While wide-angle shots give buyers a sense of the room’s layout, close-up shots can emphasize the details that make a room special. For example, if the kitchen has custom cabinetry or high-end appliances, take close-up shots that show off the craftsmanship. If the home has original hardwood floors or detailed molding, zoom in to highlight these features.
- Use Lighting to Your Advantage Good lighting is essential when highlighting special points of interest. Make sure the feature is well-lit and free of shadows. For outdoor features like swimming pools or patios, consider shooting during the “golden hour” for a warm, inviting glow.
- Tell a Story A well-photographed feature should tell a story about how the space can be used. For example, an outdoor kitchen might suggest entertaining during summer cookouts, while a cozy reading nook could evoke images of quiet relaxation. Use the special points of interest to help buyers imagine themselves enjoying the home.
- Make the Feature the Focal Point When showcasing a special feature, make sure it’s the star of the photo. Position the camera to frame the feature prominently and avoid clutter or distractions in the background. If necessary, adjust the angle or move furniture to ensure the feature is the focal point.
Real-World Example: Highlighting a Renovated Kitchen
We recently worked on a listing for a home that had a completely renovated kitchen with high-end finishes. The seller was very proud of the kitchen and wanted to make sure it was the focal point of the listing. We took several wide shots to show the layout and flow of the space, but we also captured close-ups of the custom cabinets, marble countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The final photos highlighted the quality of the renovation, and the kitchen became one of the main selling points that attracted buyers.
Activity: Identify Points of Interest in Your Home
Take a walk through your home and identify any special features that could set it apart from other properties. Is there an architectural detail, a modern upgrade, or a prime location that makes your home unique? Write down these points of interest and make sure they’re included in your real estate photography shot list.
Discussion Question: Why Do Special Points of Interest Attract Buyers?
Special points of interest make a home memorable and can often be the deciding factor for a buyer. Discuss why unique features or upgrades are so important in real estate listings. How can highlighting these features help a property stand out in a crowded market?
Wrapping It Up
Special points of interest are what make a home unique, and it’s essential to highlight these features in real estate photography. Whether it’s an architectural detail, a modern upgrade, or a prime location, these standout features can capture buyers’ attention and help sell the property faster. Stay tuned for next week’s post, where we’ll explore how to handle farms and open land in real estate photography!
