As mentioned last week, the built-in flash on most digital cameras (and film cameras) is only effective for about 6 feet to 10 feet in front of the camera. Don't rely on this feature to fully light rooms where there is inadequate lighting to begin with. Here's a tip to get the best looking interior photos and virtual tours...
Most importantly, turn on all the lights possible, even during sunny days. Almost all photos used for virtual tours do a better job of showing off a room's features with maximum lighting. Save the dramatic shadowy effect for the virtual tour you create of the Haunted House charity at Halloween (what a great promotional idea!).
Also, open the drapes and blinds to let in the natural sunlight. People want to see how open and airy a room appears, so show it off! However, you will want to keep the window treatments closed (or partially closed) when the sunlight is streaming directly into the room in the early morning or late afternoon. Turn on lights in connecting rooms or hallways as well to light up all areas that affect your photos. If the lighting is still inadequate, ask the Seller to bring in a lamp or two from another room.
One clever client purchased a few of those battery powered lamps that look like circular moons. These are the ones that you just press the center with your hand and it turns on or off. They are about $5 each and can be found at most home improvement stores. They're small, inexpensive, lightweight, and solve this problem in a pinch! Just set one or two of these in the darker areas and press them to turn on. Instant lighting solution!
Next
week we'll help you get the most from interior panoramic shots.
In
future e-marketing newsletters we'll cover other marketing and
photographic tips. Stay tuned!
