Mastering Deck Photography and Drone Footage for Your Business

Hello, deck builders! Want your amazing work to stand out online? Stunning photos and impressive drone footage are key to showcasing your decks on your website and social media. Here are some straightforward tips to help your photographer capture the best shots—or to help you if you’re doing it yourself!

What to Tell Your Photographer

1. Lighting and Timing:

• Golden Hours: The best time to take photos is shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. This light is soft and warm, making your deck look fantastic.
• Avoid Midday Sun: If you have to shoot during the day, try to find shaded areas to avoid harsh shadows and overexposed spots.

2. Shot Composition:

• Variety of Angles: Ask for a mix of wide shots (show the whole deck), medium shots (focus on specific areas), and close-ups (highlight details).
• Rule of Thirds: Position key elements off-center for a balanced look. Imagine a grid and place important parts along those lines.

3. Size and Resolution:

• High Resolution: Ensure photos are high-resolution. For print, aim for 300 DPI, and for web use, 72 DPI is fine.
• Aspect Ratios: Use 4:3 or 16:9 for web, and remember Instagram likes square (1:1) and vertical (4:5) formats.

Drone Footage Tips

1. Legal and Safety Considerations:

• Regulations: Make sure the drone operator knows local regulations, has the necessary permits, and avoids no-fly zones.

2. Shooting Tips:

• Smooth Movements: Use slow, steady movements for professional-looking footage. Avoid jerky motions.
• Aerial Perspectives: Mix high-altitude wide shots with lower, detailed shots to show off the entire deck and its features.

DIY Photography Tips

If you’re taking the photos yourself, here are some simple tips:

1. Equipment:

• Smartphone Camera: Modern smartphones have great cameras. Use them if you don’t have a professional camera.
• Tripod: A tripod can help keep your shots steady.

2. Settings:

• Resolution: Set your camera to the highest resolution available.
• Focus and Exposure: Tap on your subject on the screen to focus and adjust exposure.

3. Preparation:

• Clean the Deck: Make sure the deck is clean and tidy. Remove any clutter or debris.
• Stage the Area: Arrange furniture and decor to make the space look inviting. Add props like cushions, plants, or a set dining table.

Helpful Tip:

Consistency is Key! Keep your editing style consistent to build a recognizable brand. Use the same filters and color adjustments across all your photos.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re hiring a professional or snapping pics yourself, these tips will help you capture stunning images and footage of your decks. Great visuals not only showcase your craftsmanship but also attract more clients.

Ready to make your decks the star of the show? Let’s get snapping!