When To Use A Photo Proof In Real Estate Photography
In this article I’ll discuss when to use a photo proof in real estate photography as well as share some best practices when using a photo proof.
Table of Contents
What Is A Photo Proof
Essentially, a photo proof is a collection of thumbnails of all the photos from a shoot, presented together on a single sheet or digital file.
This tool serves as a visual summary of the session’s results, allowing photographers, clients, and other parties like homeowners or architects to review the images quickly before making selections for further editing or printing.
If you’re curious how to create a proof, check out our article How to Create a Photo Proof in Adobe Lightroom. Creating a photo proof in Adobe Lightroom is extremely easy, just like most functions in Lightroom. We even named Adobe Lightroom the Best Editing Software For Real Estate Photographers.
Quick Client Review and Selection
Efficient Overview
After a shoot, clients are often eager to see the results as soon as possible. Providing a photo proof sheet allows them to review all the captured images at a glance without overwhelming them with full-resolution files.
This is especially beneficial when time is of the essence, and quick turnaround is expected.
Streamlining Selection
With proof sheets, clients can easily indicate which images they prefer for final editing and use. This process helps avoid the confusion of back-and-forth communication and ensures that the photographer works only on the images that will be utilized, saving time and resources.
Licensing Specific Images for Commercial Properties
Selective Licensing
In commercial real estate photography, where licensing of images can be more complex and specific, proof sheets provide a clear and organized way for clients to view all available photos and select which ones they want to license.
This is particularly useful when the licensing agreement involves only a certain number of images, or different images are intended for varied uses.
Clear Documentation
Using proof sheets in the licensing process provides a clear record of which images were made available for selection and which were chosen by the client. This can be important documentation if there are any disputes or misunderstandings about image usage rights down the line.
Protecting Work You Want To Share
Previews Your Clients Can’t Download
Before investing time in editing, photographers might want to ensure only selected images are fully processed. Proof sheets allow photographers to show clients the potential of the images through low-resolution previews.
This not only protects the photographer’s unedited work but also reassures clients about the quality and range of shots taken during the session.
Control Over Distribution
By providing a proof sheet instead of individual image files, photographers maintain control over their work. Clients can view and select images without having direct access to the full-resolution files, reducing the risk of unedited or unapproved images being used or distributed.
Utilizing Photo Proofs Effectively
Communicate Clearly
Make sure clients understand the purpose and process of reviewing a proof sheet. Explain how they should indicate their selections and any deadlines for making their choices.
I ask my clients to simply reference the number image that they are commenting about. All my photos are clearly numbered, which eliminates confusion.
Quality Thumbnails
Ensure the thumbnails on the proof sheet are of sufficient quality to make informed decisions. They should be clear, accurately colored, and large enough to appreciate the details of the property.
Organized and Numbered
An effective proof sheet is well-organized and each image is clearly numbered. This helps clients easily reference and communicate their selections.
Set Expectations
Let clients know that the images on the proof sheet are unedited and represent the raw material from which the final images will be produced. Ensure they understand that the final results will be enhanced and polished.
I inform my clients of this before I even send the proof to them. I tell them on site or via email before the shoot even happens that they will get a proof of unedited images, then I remind them when sending the proof.
Additional Resources
If you’re just getting started in real estate photography, check out our Beginners Guide. It’s full of helpful articles and tips that will guide you in the right direction as you begin your real estate photography journey.
You can check out our Gear section as well to see reviews and recommendations on the latest real estate photography gear.
If you’re more interested in other resources that can help your real estate photography business, check out our Business Resources page.
