I have had the pleasure of working with many real estate agents in the Ottawa area. Just like photographers, the realtor market is very saturated which is why it’s so important to differentiate yourself from others in your industry. Through branding photography, you offer your potential clients a closer look into what makes you different and why they should choose you as their realtor.

Here are my top 7 photos to add to your shot list for your next banding session:

1. Realtor Headshot
This is one I see falling flat time and time again. The standard headshot just doesn’t cut it anymore. In order to attract the right clients, your headshot should be a representation of you and your unique personality. I like to infuse your headshots with a little more life rather than your stuffy, corporate headshots against a white background. There’s definitely still room for these, but in a fun and more relaxed way.

2. Lifestyle photos
These lifestyle brand photos are meant to showcase you in your working environment. Are you a residential realtor? Think sitting on the countertop in a beautiful kitchen or on the living room couch. I love making use of the location we have chosen to tell a story. It’s also nice to get photos of the neighbourhoods that you tend to work more frequently in.

3. Props
Using things like your laptop, cell phone, or notebook to get some behind-the-scenes photos of you working is great for social media posts. Other fun props can include branded materials like coffee mugs or printed guides, as well as keys on a keychain to symbolize handing over the keys to the buyer. Champagne toasts to celebrate a sale. There are so many options and they don’t need to be conventional.

4. SOLD!
Speaking of props, bring your signs along with you for a few fun photos of you holding the sign and celebrating!

5. Behind the scenes
We’ve already talked about using props like your laptop or cellphone to showcase you at work, but I also love getting someone to pose as your client during a walkthrough of a house or going over a contract. These are, again, great photos to use on social media to give clients a glimpse into what they can expect working with you.

It’s also great to have a few photos of you staging a home.

6. Personality Driven Photos
Think about what makes you stand out from the crowd. Something that makes you or your business unique. These should be fun, a little quirky, and something that will stand out. Like this one from Guy with the Dog real estate? Add in a dog.

7. Team Photos
If you work with a team, it’s important to capture you together both smiling at the camera as well as collaborating together.

Can you think of any other photos that would add to your stock of images to use for your realtor business? I’d love to know!

If you’re an Ottawa realtor interested in booking a branding session, reach out to me for details!