As photographers, whether amateur or already selling and working as a pro, we are always looking for new ways to make money from our craft.
Today's idea: Realty Photography
Check with realtor offices in your area. Don't e-mail or phone, go in person. Have a price sheet and some sample photos (maybe of your own home).
Keep the prices low enough to get a consideration. With iPhones and P&S cameras in everyone's pockets, you'll need to be able to turn in a superior product at a reasonable price. Be sure to make it worth your while, though.
An idea that can help put hiring you in their mind instead of just doing it themselves is using your lighting knowledge to your advantage for interiors. Your proper technique with the higher quality sensor of your DSLR should make an interior photograph that has much more detail than their pocket tool. Your wider lenses show more of any room without having to use multiple shots.
For exteriors, think of using your panorama mode or program. A realtor isn't just selling a house, it's the entire property. Show that. Tell them instead of simply showing a cropped view or two of the structure, you can give them the entire lot.
Balance out your processing time. If you shoot well in the first place, you won't need much computer time, just a tweak or two. I stay away from color adjustments except for corrections.
Deliver jpegs on CD or DVD. Small enough files so they can insert them into their ad copy with ease.
On your price list, price the job including delivery of a set number of images, list the extra charges for additional images.
If you want to offer image archiving, be sure to spell the terms out clearly. It's also worth more if you are able to offer that.
Be sure to protect yourself and your clients with proper insurance, licenses, and contracts specific to your area's laws and regulations..
