Real Estate and Architectural Imaging

Which Photo Would You Choose?

Below are four images for a comparison exercise. All four are taken with the same subject and lighting. All four are not post edited to add enhancement and/or correction and no flash was used (All our final images are otherwise individually post edited in-house). All three pro-images are using the same camera and lens and the same camera settings, except for the Automatic 'A', which of course does what the camera wants to do rather than the photographer. All three are stabilized on a sturdy tripod and have the same focus point settings. Only the end result will change after producing.

It should be noted, that if comparing a hi-end cell phone or consumer-grade camera, one should not expect to mimic the same results of even the Automatic (A) example. Since the human eye is able to see 10X greater depth of field, color saturation and detail, advanced equipment and technique become paramount. Other than 'A' these images are shot using different available features and applied techniques without enhancement or correction. The whole concept of this exercise is to show options that are available in a rather simplistic way in order to decide the final result most appealing to you for your needs, and ultimately more interesting and attractive to both you and your client. This is also where your personal image is perceived to the viewer, client, and prospected buyer.

This page is not intended to educate anyone as a professional or to have one understand all the features and settings available in the camera operation, but rather to provide differences in our offerings in the Still Photography category. When a subject is professionally photographed, there are typically numerous settings and time-consuming preparation for each shot. This is not a 'press the shutter button and then move on' type of process as some may think.
Here we go:

The first photo (A) is an automatic shot decided by the camera once the shutter button is pressed. This is the 'A' or 'A' setting found on most 35mm film and DSLR consumer and professional cameras alike.
The second photo (B) is our High Definition (HD) plus High Dynamic Range (HDR). This one we term, our Simple HDR. This is used by Drone360Photography in perhaps at least 80% of the time, especially for an indoor shot on all sizes and character of properties. This is the base of the final photographic image prior to our in-house post-editing process applied before you receive the images. Again, no editing has been applied here so that this exercise provides the best in differences under the same fair comparing standards. This HDR setting is always used as our 'Standard', especially indoors. Our clients quickly notice the improved clarity improvements from others who, for whatever reason, choose not to or for lack of the proper equipment and expertise.
The last photo (C) is similar to (B) above but is more advanced in technique and more time-consuming. This one we term, our Complex HDR, and is an optional upgrade. There is more additional time to shoot and more time to process in post-editing. There are actually several images taken separately as shot on the same subject, then merged together in the final editing process. It is important to note that the photographer has full control over the magnitude and depth of settings and can very these prior to post-editing during the shoot. This process is quite desirable in high valued homes, where the first impression is very important to the agent and client, and where images that excel are demanded.
(D) is just a hardware comparison to appreciate the need for quality equipment to get quality photos. This is an Apple high-end cell phone with a lens smaller than the head of a new #2 pencil eraser. This exercise should speak for itself.

Remember, The better the photo imaging, the better the viewer's experience and interest. You may experience less time on the market, a better chance of a higher offer, a happier client, and overall more in your pocket.

A Fully Automatic B Simple HDR C Complex HDR D Apple Hi-End Cell

There is an obvious difference between A and either of the remaining B or C images. B presents a more natural and full exposure over A while increasing detail and color. There is a notable difference in C from B due to the fact there is more color saturation and richer detail.
D is tossed in the mix as a comparison as not to be left out. Some may think the outside windows show better at the sacrifice of a darkened interior. Again, there is no editing, special settings or added filters used to sway one's opinion prior to exposure. The importance here is the interior image detail and color saturation. The bright outside in A, B, and C are customarily improved in post-editing as a professional photographer, thereby maintaining a balance inside and out. That being said, most would realize that D is not a professional tool for great photography.