When a new brand client books my Premium Brand package, I have a very detailed workflow that goes into action. This workflow helps guide the client and I along the planning process to ensure that each and every aspect of their marketing plan is executed. Working with the Cullen Real Estate team for their real estate brand photos started similarly!

The Process of Hiring a Brand Photographer

Location, Location, Location.

The first thing we discussed on our initial call was the location, which can be a hang up for a lot of brand clients. The backdrop we select makes a huge impact on the look of your final gallery, so selecting the right space is important. There are studio rental options through places like Peerspace, more residential styled rentals through websites like HomeStudioList, as well as outdoor options if your business relates to nature. The best part about planning for real estate brand photos is that all we need is a property or two…and real estate agents certainly know where to find a property! The Cullen team didn’t feel that they had a current listing that best represented their brand, but we were able to work with their own home instead. This gave us the perfect backdrop to work with.

Let’s Hire a Model!

Another crucial part of the planning process for client-facing brands and businesses is hiring or recruiting models to join your real estate brand photos. Creating a total visual package for all your marketing needs doesn’t make sense without clients. Real estate agents need to show what they do, how they do it, and who with in order to build trust. Some brands hire models from local modeling agencies, and others recruit friends and family who fit their client avatar.

…and SCENE.

In our final detail planning call for brands who hire me for a Premium Brand Session, we talk through each “scene” and any props needed for the scene. For real estate agents, a branding photoshoot scene list might include:

• Greeting Clients
• Touring a Home
• Doing Paperwork with Clients
• Home Research and Behind the Scenes Work

If we were doing these four scenes, our prop list might look like this:

• Greeting Clients: 2 or more models, a front door, keys, a lockbox
• Touring a Home: clipboard or spec sheet, 1-2 models
• Doing Paperwork with Clients: laptop or computer, desk set-up, pens, pads for clients
• Home Research and Behind the Scenes Work: desk set-up, phone, notepad, ipad, website/apps, coffee mug

The best way I prep my clients to help them think about what scenes would best represent their business is to think about their average day (or week) start to finish. Where do they spend the most time? What do they talk about online or in email newsletters and what can we do to visually represent this?

…but what will I wear?!

Lastly it’s so important to talk through wardrobe. Some clients end up hiring a wardrobe stylist so that they can get some professional help as it’s not always easy to pick the right clothes! The goal is always to pick a variety of outfits that feel like *you* but also fit you well AND represent your brand’s aesthetic. If you’re not sure what your brand’s aesthetic is, it’s a great idea to go on Pinterest and pin 10-15 brand photos that speak to you. Looking at a group of images you’re drawn to can help us identify some patterns and help us nail down your preferred style!

Although the planning can feel overwhelming, the more we plan, the more epic your photoshoot will turn out! When the day comes, it’s my turn to take over. With the help of all of our awesome plans, I will create a diverse and full gallery for you to use for all your marketing needs!

Are you a real estate agent looking for brand photos? Let’s chat!