So, you’re a construction company and you’re growing fast. You want to take it to the next level, and you’ve heard this little rumour that you should be posting on Instagram more. Well fear not, my little tradie soldier. I’ve got you. I'm going to help you learn how to take better photos of houses.
So a little back story on myself here. I went to The University of Guelph for Studio Art many, many moons ago. And while that sounds like a good time, and yes the parties were great – I wouldn’t say that it really equipped me well for a career right out of the gate.
SO. I did what any other slightly confused and clearly hard working young man would do. I picked up a hammer and became a carpenter.
I did builds in Muskoka, Burlington and Toronto for a number of years – working closely with the owner of a high end building company. And hey, I even went to college in Mississauga for – yep – almost a whole semester to become a draftsman. Well, at least I did until I finally had a quarter life crisis and drove out to Calgary, AB for a year – but that’s a story for another day.
Why the hell am I telling you all of this?? Well, I just want you to understand that I have a deep understanding of the industry. I’ve been in it, and now, as a photographer, I document it. And I document it well.
So here’s a few tips on how you can do it better for yourself, too.
1. Angles and composition matter. You put a lot of effort into the work that you do, so don’t skimp out on sharing it properly. Use the edges of your phone screen to make sure that your tilt and side to side angles are straight. This means straight up and down, and straight side to side. Choose a nice composition – be intentional.
2. Before, during and after photos. These are the best way to have a nice variety of content throughout the entire process of the build. And then at the end of the project, post all of the photos together. This is such a good way to show the transformations you can create for homeowners. Do it!
3. Pay attention to the light. In photography, light is everything (yes, even in cellphone photography). Depending on where you’re standing and where the sun is in the sky, your images will be affected. If it’s a sunny day, move around and experiment. Be honest with yourself and use your eye to decide what looks best. If it’s a cloudy day, then you’ve hit the lighting jackpot. A good set of clouds in the sky helps to diffuse the sunlight and make a nice even mix of dynamic range.
4. BONUS Posting Tip – Think About Your Copy. “Jay, what’s copy??” It’s called copywriting, Ted. And it’s just a fancy marketing word for your post description. The copy is where you can add value to the post. Here you can educate your potential client, entertain them, or both. Don’t be shy. Write from the heart. And don’t forget to add a call to action. Anything along the lines of “If you’ve been thinking about doing that reno, then it’s time to talk!” will do.
5. BONUS Posting Tip #2 – Use Hashtags. Ooooh yeah, baby. Hashtags matter. Try to use 10 or 11 of them, and get pretty specific. If your account is a bit smaller (like hundreds or low thousands of followers) then look for specific hashtags that don’t have millions of uses. Also look for things that you think potential consumers will be looking for. Think #contractor, #constructioncompany[insert your town here]. Use searchable and relatable terms and you’ll be all set.
Basically, my friend, just have fun with it. Constantly ask yourself “Do I like this? Am I excited?” If you aren’t, then chances are that other people won’t be either. Share VALUE and build a LOYAL following of folks who love what your business does and you’ll enjoy all the benefits that come from having a healthy and active online presence.
On the other hand, if this all sounds like A LOT, and you’re located in Toronto, Barrie, Orillia or Muskoka – four32 MEDIA is here to help. Please feel free to reach out and have a chat. We feel we’re quite good at what we do – and we’d be happy to assist your growing business in any way that we can.
To Your Success,
Jay Ashcroft
four32 MEDIA