Introduction
Are you looking to take your commercial real estate photography to the next level? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of drone photography for commercial real estate. Whether you are a beginner looking to improve your skills or an expert seeking affirmation, this guide has got you covered.
Think Beyond the Shot List
When it comes to commercial real estate drone photography, it's essential to think beyond the shot list. Understanding the needs of your commercial real estate clients is crucial to adapt to various situations that may arise. Each property and client is unique, so having a holistic understanding of their needs will set you apart as a photographer.
Use Your Head (don’t be this guy)
In drone photography, it's important not to be too literal with your shots. Instead of just capturing shots of the surrounding area alone, take shots that showcase the subject property within its surroundings. Providing context and perspective will elevate your photos and impress your clients.
Background: The Basics
To excel in commercial real estate drone photography, you must understand the goals of commercial real estate brokers. Brokers aim to satisfy clients, sell properties, and achieve high prices. By aligning yourself with their goals and delivering flawlessly, you will establish yourself as a reliable and sought-after photographer.
It's important to note that these guidelines serve as basic rules-of-thumb and may not apply in every situation. Now, let's dive into the fundamentals.
Client’s Clients
Understanding the clients of commercial real estate brokers is essential. In most cases, brokers represent property owners who engage them to market and sell their properties. By familiarizing yourself with the client's clients, you can better cater to their specific needs and expectations.
Commercial & Residential Real Estate ARE NOT the Same Thing!
Residential and commercial real estate differ significantly. While both categories rely on location, they have different definitions of what makes a location desirable. Understanding these differences is crucial for successful commercial real estate drone photography.
Good Neighbors
Prospective tenants in commercial real estate prefer locations where their neighbors complement rather than compete with their businesses. Understanding the dynamics between tenants and their potential competitors will help you capture shots that showcase the property's appeal to prospective clients.
Location, Location, Location
Location is a critical factor in the value and marketability of a property. When photographing commercial real estate, be sure to showcase its surroundings and capture shots that highlight its location. Aerial photos can provide valuable context and elevate the marketing appeal of the property.
Staying Up-to-Date
Keep in mind that customers benefit from seeing recent shots. Showcasing the property's proximity to popular retailers or key landmarks can help potential buyers visualize the area and make informed decisions.
Variety
Variety is key in commercial real estate drone photography. By providing a greater quantity and wider variety of shots, you enable brokers to capture their clients' attention and help them visualize their stores in potential locations. Be creative and capture shots that highlight important features and details.
Drone Photography is New. Aerial Photography Isn’t.
Commercial real estate brokers have been using aerial photography for decades. Drones have revolutionized this practice by providing close-up shots and different perspectives. Aim to provide your clients with the best of both worlds by capturing high-altitude and ground-level shots.
Highs & Lows
When photographing commercial real estate, be sure to capture shots from the highest altitude you are legally allowed to fly. This will provide a comprehensive view of the property. Additionally, don't forget to capture shots from close to the ground to showcase unique perspectives.
Timing is (almost) Everything
Timing is crucial in commercial real estate drone photography. Plan your shoots around the busiest times for the property. Consider factors such as the type of business, days of operation, and peak hours. By capturing shots when the property is bustling, you create a sense of vibrancy and appeal.
What Would You Do?
Put yourself in the shoes of a marketing manager for the property. Imagine you have only one image to market the property. What would you choose? By considering this question, you can capture shots that highlight the property's best features.
The Shot List
When creating your shot list for commercial real estate drone photography, keep these tips in mind:
Move Around
Include shots from various heights, angles, distances, and directions. Capture shots from all compass points, showcasing the property from North, East, South, and West. Don't forget about shots from the corners and shots that depict the property within its surroundings.
Show the Horizon
While not every shot needs to include the horizon, capture shots where the horizon comprises the top 20-25% of the image. This provides context and elevates the overall aesthetic of the photos.
Get it All
Ensure that you capture the entire building or shopping center in a single shot. For larger properties, consider capturing overlapping images that can later be stitched together to create a comprehensive view.
Pylon Shots
Don't forget to include shots of the entrance signs, also known as pylons. These signs often contain important information about the property's current occupants and can be impressive selling points for your clients.
Other Factors to Consider
Consider sunlight and its direction when shooting a property. Shoot when the sun is shining on the front of the building, avoiding heavy shadows that can't be corrected in post-production.
Avoid capturing shots when delivery trucks, vans, or people loitering outside the building could hinder the overall appeal of the property.
Camera Settings
To capture the best possible photos, remember these camera settings:
No Fisheye
Ensure that your drone's camera does not produce fisheye photos. DJI drones are known for their high-quality cameras that avoid this distortion. Fisheye photos are unappealing and should be avoided.
Photo Examples
Check out some examples of commercial real estate drone photography we've recently completed in different locations. These examples will inspire you and give you a better understanding of what makes a compelling commercial real estate photo.
Key CRE Terms & Concepts
To effectively communicate with your commercial real estate clients, familiarize yourself with these key terms:
- Anchor Tenants: Major retail chains that attract other tenants and consumers.
- Pads: Freestanding parcels of commercial real estate located in front of larger shopping centers.
- Offering Memorandum (OM): A presentation and legal document provided to potential investors summarizing a potential deal.
- Net Lease: A lease where the tenant pays additional expenses such as taxes, insurance fees, and maintenance costs.
- Mixed Use: Properties that incorporate various categories of tenants, including retail, residential, office, or industrial.
- Deferred Maintenance: Postponing repairs on a property, which can affect its value and cash flows.
Taking Off
Armed with the knowledge and insights from this guide, you are now ready to take your commercial real estate drone photography to new heights. Remember to adapt to each client's unique needs, ask the right questions, and deliver beautiful aerial imagery that exceeds their expectations.
For more drone photography tutorials and updates, follow us on our social media channels: YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe to our mailing list for regular updates on the latest trends and techniques in the world of drone photography.
I hope this comprehensive guide has enriched your understanding of commercial real estate drone photography. Happy flying!