Recently hired to shoot a lakeside cabin or beachfront mansion? For photographers, these assignments aren’t just another listing on your weekly call list; they’re an opportunity to capture the lifestyle that many homeowners dream of. When it comes to waterfront real estate, it’s essential to adopt a different shooting approach—one that showcases how the home interacts directly with the water. This not only serves as a significant selling point but also highlights the irresistible appeal of these properties.
In this guide, we’ll share the practical tricks that HomeJab photographers have learned over the years, covering everything from shot techniques to ideal shooting times.
What time of day is ideal for shooting waterfront real estate?
Before locking in a day and time to shoot a waterfront property—whether it’s a lake house, oceanfront mansion, or riverside retreat—be sure to check the weather forecast. Since the quality of these photos are heavily influenced by outdoor conditions, selecting the right day is crucial for presenting the property at its best and ensuring client satisfaction.
Ideally, aim for clear blue skies and soft natural light to highlight the beauty of the water and surrounding landscape. As you might assume, it’s best to avoid shooting on overly cloudy or rainy days, as these conditions can dull colors and create an uninviting atmosphere that post-production editing may struggle to fix.
Now, you might be wondering, “What else should I keep in mind for my next waterfront shoot?”. Below, we’ll share five practical tips for photographing waterfront real estate that will help you excel in your work and achieve outstanding results.
Tip #1: Drone photography
If there’s one essential tip for capturing waterfront properties, it’s using drone photography. As statistics say, aerial photos and aerial videos have been directly linked to quicker sales for residential properties, and it’s even more impactful when highlighting a home’s proximity to the water.
Aerial footage showcases not just the property itself, but the entire shoreline and surrounding landscape, providing a view that ground-level photos can’t match. Given the added vantage point, potential buyers can see the full scale of the listing, its natural beauty and the privacy it offers, all in one shot.
The real wow factor comes into play when you can soar above the water, photographing the property from angles that are otherwise impossible to achieve. Our HomeJab photographers have mastered the art of securing stunning drone shots from these vantage points, leaving both real estate agents and homeowners overjoyed with the outcomes.
Tip #2: Feature waterfront amenities
One of the standout amenities of waterfront properties is direct access to the water. Whether it’s a private beach, dock, or boat slip, these features are significant selling points that should take center stage in your real estate photography.
As an example, if the seller recently renovated their dock with new composite decking, you’d want to focus on the pristine condition and features, such as ambient lighting, that add to the luxury of this outdoor space.
Tip #3: Illuminate your shots with the golden glow
The moments just before sunset are prime for capturing breathtaking shots of waterfront properties. While these stunning homes shine at any time of day, the golden hour offers a unique opportunity to elevate your final gallery. The warm, soft light enhances the natural beauty of the vicinity and adds a magical quality to your images.
Tip #4: Step inside for even better views
While waterfront properties often steal the show with their exteriors, don’t overlook the magic happening inside. Capturing interior shots that frame those breathtaking water views can bring your photography to a whole new level. Plus, these interior viewpoints invite potential buyers to envision how the indoor space seamlessly harmonizes with the outside scenery.
When you photograph these interior spots, consider angles that emphasize large windows or glass doors that lead out to the water. Additionally, take snapshots from spaces you wouldn’t expect to see great views. This could be a glimpse of the water from the from primary bathroom or a hallway vantage point. This way, you highlight not just the home’s main features, but also the lifestyle it offers from every room you enter.
Tip #5: Flaunt the waterfront lifestyle
For many homeowners, living by a lake, river, or oceanfront is a dream come true. When photographing waterfront real estate, it’s vital to highlight what makes this dream special. Whether it’s a cozy fire pit on the beach, an expansive deck overlooking the ocean, or an outdoor grilling space that would make any pitmaster envious, showing off the lifestyle is just as important as capturing the scenic views.
A tried-and-true tip is to use a wide-angle lens to encompass more of the outdoor space and provide greater context for the features that make these homes unique. Shots of jet skis at the dock or kayaks hanging nearby can give potential homeowners a glimpse into the lifestyle they could enjoy, undoubtedly generating more interest in the property once it’s listed.
Overview of waterfront real estate photography
As a real estate photographer, you encounter properties of all types, but waterfront real estate stands in a class of its own. While capturing both interior and exterior shots is standard practice, waterfront properties demand a more detailed approach. To recap, you must detail the property’s connection to the water, the inherent luxury of waterfront living, and the distinctive features that elevate the listing from others on the market.
Remember, while waterfront real estate provides an exciting canvas for photographers, it’s easy to overlook crucial elements that make these listings truly outstanding. Keep these five tips in mind to ensure every shot counts.
Visit our HomeJab blog to discover more photography basics that can enhance your skills today!
