For Photographer

PHOTOGRAPHY INFORMATION

Camera settings:

  1. (A) Aperture priority.
  2. Files are always RAW.
  3. Aperture settings are no less than 10, 11, or 16.
  4. Exposure compensation: “0” – always.
  5. ISO: 100 to 320 MAX. No exceptions!
  6. The interior & exterior bracket is set to 5 images: -2/-1/0/+1/+2/
  7. White balance – AUTO.
  8. Lenses 12-24 mil. Full frame.

A few things to note:

  • Always contact the client 45-60 min prior to the appointment. Use our app or cal info. No exceptions!
  • Ask for any special requests/concerns.
  • Read customer instructions and office comments in calendar.
  • Use replacement shoes (interior) on the property.
  • For safety reasons, we don’t move large furniture, but we’ll work with the agent/owner to get the best possible shots.
  • No trash cans in the shots. No toilet paper.
  • Closets are always closed unless agents ask differently.
  • The toilet seat cover is always down.
  • Fans are always OFF – no exceptions.
  • Most agents like lights on. Please turn lights on.
  • Use an elevated (7-9ft) stand for exterior shots. Always.
  • Scan wall colors with NiX. Must include file uploads. Here is a tutorial.
  • If the client changes the order – add info in your app. Or notify the office about the update.
  • Give us 15-20% more shots than ordered.
  • Upload files to Dropbox asap.

For your reference – here are samples of the final product.

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Camera settings for images:

  1. (A) Aperture priority.
  2. Files are always RAW.
  3. Frame size 3:2 (not 16:9)
  4. Aperture setting is no less than 5.6 or highier
  5. ND filter of 4 is preferred on sunny days.
  6. ISO: 100 to 200 MAX. No exceptions!
  7. We use bracketed drone photography only.
  8. The drone bracket is set to 5 images (video setting instructions below)
  9. White balance – AUTO (or manual in range between 5200K-6500K)

AERIAL VIDEO

  1. We always film in 4K30p or 4K60p (if your drone has the option)
  2. Shutter speed no more than 100/s for 30p and 120/s for 60p
  3. ISO – 200 MAX
  4. Standard color profile (no log)
  5. ND filters depending on brightness of the day to compensate low shutter 4 through 32.
  6. Cut video in scenes. Re-Focus on each scene.

Core Drone Movements

  • Ascend/Descend: Moving the drone directly upwards or downwards, resembling a pedestal shot.
  • Push In/Pull Out: Flying the drone forwards or backward towards the subject, similar to a dolly movement.
  • Pan: Rotating the drone horizontally just like a traditional pan. (do not use, unless needed)
  • Tilt: Tilting the gimbal up or down as in a traditional tilt shot.
  • Yaw: Rotating the drone on its axis while hovering (this changes the drone’s facing direction without moving in space).

Advanced Techniques

  • Orbit/Point of Interest (POI): The drone circles a fixed point while keeping the camera focused on it. This creates dynamic shots that are difficult to replicate with other equipment.
  • The Reveal: The camera starts focused on a foreground object and gradually moves (by flying over or sideways) to reveal a landscape, subject, or point of interest that was initially hidden.
  • Fly-through: The drone navigates through a complex environment, such as flying through a doorway, between trees, or inside a structure.
  • The Fly Over: The drone flies directly over a subject, often starting close and then pulling back as it gains altitude.
  • Helix: Combines an ascend or descent with a circular orbit, creating a visually engaging spiraling shot.

Helpful video links:

  1. Setting up your drone for photography
  2. 5 Essential Drone Shots
  3. Drone Workflow for Real Estate PHOTO & VIDEO
  4. Final video sample