A real estate listing is just a quick description and some photos of the property, right? Unless you want potential buyers to swipe past your listing, it’s time to rethink it. One way to do that is by utilizing lifestyle photography, which goes beyond basic images to capture the essence of living in a space.
When done right, this approach can significantly boost engagement and attract more potential buyers and renters. Remember, real estate listings that include professional photography sell 32% faster than ones without. Imagine the value added when that professional adds a touch of personality through lifestyle photography.
Let’s dig in.
What Is Lifestyle Photography?
First, let’s break down the definition of lifestyle photography. Quite simply, it focuses on capturing real-life events and situations in an artistic manner. Unlike, for example, traditional portrait photography, which is posed and highly controlled, lifestyle photography aims to tell a story through candid, natural images. The goal is to portray the subject’s environment and interactions authentically and provide a glimpse into everyday life.
This style of photography often involves minimal staging and allows subjects to engage in their typical activities while the photographer documents these moments. This setup creates images that are relatable and tap into an emotional response from viewers. By capturing the essence of moments like these, lifestyle photography can convey a more genuine and personal connection to the subject matter.
In real estate photography, this could look like a photo of a family at home or close-up details of a beautifully set dining table. The point is to emphasize the beauty and spontaneity of everyday life. It’s particularly effective for marketing homes or apartments, where showcasing how a space can be lived in and enjoyed can obviously appeal to potential buyers or renters.
Benefits of Lifestyle Photography: A Secret Real Estate Marketing Weapon
Lifestyle photography is more than just beautiful images. The goal is to capture the essence of actually living in a space. And when, according to Zillow, 79% of homebuyers shop online to find their home, the quality of the listing and its photos are quite literally what could make or break a sale.
When done right, real estate lifestyle photography can truly transform your listings. Potential buyers can imagine their lives in the space, planning moments for years to come. This quiet, intimate emotional connection is impossible to quantify, but it’s real. Forbes calls emotion the “secret weapon” of marketing.
Here are some key benefits that make real estate lifestyle photography a powerful marketing tool.
- Emotional Engagement: Lifestyle photography helps potential buyers and renters visualize themselves in the space. When they see images of people enjoying the property, it fosters a sense of familiarity – and they can imagine their life.
- Differentiation: In a sea of listings, unique and high-quality lifestyle images can make your property stand out. These photos add a personal touch that standard images often lack.
- Increased Interest: Listings with lifestyle photos tend to generate more interest. Viewers spend more time exploring dynamic and relatable images, which leads to higher engagement rates and more inquiries. These photos make the property feel lived-in and inviting.
- Versatility: Whether it’s a vacation rental, a family home, or a luxury estate, lifestyle photography can be used in many different ways. It appeals to a broad audience by showcasing the lived-in potential of the space.
- Storytelling: Lifestyle photography tells a story about the property. How was this space used previously? What will happen to it in the future? By capturing real-life interactions and details, it highlights what type of lifestyle the property offers, making the listing more memorable.
The Different Types of Lifestyle Photography, Explained
Lifestyle photography comes in various forms, but when it comes to real estate, there are two main types that can significantly improve your listings: Lifestyle People and Lifestyle Property.
Both types of lifestyle photography can be used effectively to tell a more compelling story about a property. When combined, they provide a holistic view that showcases not just the space, but the life that can be lived there. This approach can make your listings more attractive, relatable, and ultimately, more successful.
It’s also important to remember that lifestyle photography isn’t just focused on real estate listings for sale or rent. In the modern world where property owners take advantage of AirBnB and vacation rental startups, keeping your listings fresh and inviting is a key advantage. For instance, here’s an example of how an AirBnb listing utilizes lifestyle photography.
Let’s break down what each type involves and how they can add value to your real estate marketing.
Lifestyle People Photography
Lifestyle People photography focuses on capturing individuals or families enjoying the space. Imagine photos of a family dining together, kids playing in the living room, or friends having a barbecue in the backyard. These images are all about showing how people interact with and enjoy the property.
Here’s why this type matters:
- Human Connection: Photos of people using the space make it easier for potential buyers or renters to picture themselves living there. It creates a narrative that goes beyond the physical attributes of the property.
- Emotional Appeal: Seeing happy faces and lively activities can evoke emotions. As we’ve explained, this makes the listing more engaging and memorable.
- Contextual Use: These photos can highlight the functionality and versatility of the spaces, whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a vibrant kitchen, or a spacious backyard.
Lifestyle Property Photography
On the other hand, Lifestyle Property photography zeroes in on the details that make a home special. These are close-up shots of elements within the home that potential renters or buyers would find interesting or attractive.
Here are some aspects to consider:
- Highlighting Details: This type of photography focuses on the finer details like a beautifully set dining table, stylish décor, or unique architectural features. These images showcase the craftsmanship and thoughtful design of the property.
- Creating Ambiance: Close-up shots can convey the ambiance and atmosphere of a home. Whether it’s a fireplace, a well-organized kitchen, or a comfy bedroom, these photos help paint a picture of what it feels like to live in the space.
- Functional Appeal: By emphasizing functional and aesthetic elements, these photos can demonstrate the quality and care put into the home. It’s not just about what it looks like to live there, but how it is living there.
How HomeJab Approaches Lifestyle Photography
At HomeJab, we’ve designed our packages to easily add on a lifestyle photography package. It’s a simple, easy, and cost-effective way to improve your HomeJab order.
Here’s how we make it happen.
Seamless Scheduling and Fast Turnaround
Scheduling a lifestyle photography session with HomeJab is straightforward and efficient. Our online booking system allows you to set up shoots quickly, and our local photographers handle the entire process. We deliver high-quality images within 24 hours, ensuring your listings are market-ready without delay.
Professional and Vetted Photographers
We employ photographers who are rigorously vetted for their expertise and professionalism. Each photographer is required to meet specific standards, guaranteeing top-tier quality for every shoot. This local knowledge means your property is captured in its best light.
Advanced Photography Techniques
Our team uses advanced photo techniques to deliver the best image possible. This includes vibrant colors and clear window views, virtual staging, blue sky replacement, and virtual dusk shots. These techniques highlight the property’s best features.
Customer-Centric Service
HomeJab is dedicated to providing excellent customer service. We understand the urgency in the real estate market and are committed to delivering precise results quickly. If issues arise, we address them promptly, often offering next-business day turnarounds to keep your listings active and attractive.
HomeJab, Your Partner in the Power of Lifestyle Photography
Lifestyle photography is a powerful tool in real estate marketing, bringing listings to life and making them more relatable. By partnering with HomeJab, you can effortlessly improve your property listings with stunning, high-quality lifestyle images.
Ready to transform your real estate marketing? Schedule your shoot with HomeJab today and see the difference lifestyle photography can make!
