CHOOSE THE RIGHT PRO TECHNIQUE

There are several techniques employed by professional real estate photographers. The one most commonly used is something called HDR. The other technique, Flash/Ambient, is a better, more difficult and less common option. Learn why!

FLASH/AMBIENT BLEND

The Flash/Ambient technique we employ is often called "Flambient" as it combines the best elements of two different photographic techniques. Flash photography's strength is its even light and color accuracy, but it looks unnatural due to the harsh shadows a flash produces. "Ambient" photography, on the other hand, looks very natural but different sources of light often produce strangely colored objects and shadows in the image. By combining both types of photographs into a Flambient image, the individual problems from each technique are resolved, accurately showing colors and texture while still creating a natural, yet dramatic, magazine quality photograph.

Flambient captures are more time intensive, and require more skill, but they produce noticeably better results. Compare the Flambient image above with the HDR image below. Notice the white ceiling, natural brick colors and the natural window light above. The green tint in the wall color also comes through where it looks brown in the HDR version. Note all the saturated but inaccurate colors in the HDR image; the blue tint on the window frames from the outside light, and the odd, yellowish colors on the fireplace bricks, lights, and on the floor and ceiling.

HDR (High Dynamic Range)

Why is HDR so common and what is it? HDR is an invention of the digital age. Almost every camera today has an HDR setting, particularly cell phone cameras. The technique closes a gap between what the human eye sees and what a camera can record. Our eyes can see detail in almost complete darkness, while at the same time seeing detail in more brightly lit areas. A camera isn't good at doing either at the same time. So, by taking multiple images at different exposures, the various levels of brightness can be captured. Software then combines the images into a final picture that is close to what our eyes see.

The resulting image has more detail and is better exposed than traditional photographs. It also tends to have more saturated colors which makes the image look more dramatic. HDR images are easy to create (another reason why there so popular), especially with built-in camera software. And because the technique is new, it stands out. But while HDR images are dramatic, they lack color and tonal accuracy that buyers need to see when deciding to view a property in person. It's why realtors who want to show properties accurately should avoid using HDR photography.

WILL ANY CAMERA DO?

Cell phone cameras do have a lot to offer, but they can't yet take a Flambient image. And it's not just about the camera. Even a $6,000 professional camera's exposures need some additional work. Here's what the same scene above looks like from a pro camera without good editing. Notice the dark corner areas and over-exposed windows. The skills of the photographer are what count most.

This example shows it takes more than a professional camera to get great shots. It takes skill and experience. And it's why amateur pictures that accompany so many listings equal poor marketing.