10 Easy Steps To Start Getting Into Luxury Property Videography

Have you ever seen a luxury property walkthrough of beautiful multi million dollar properties with epic vaulted ceilings, immaculate kitchen and living spaces and thought I really want to get into shooting homes like that, but don’t know how to start?

Don’t feel bad. I felt that way too when I was first starting out and trust me, it took years to get to the point I’m at today. After those years of practice and honing my craft as a videographer I found a way to shoot homes that sell and that captures the essence of the home. You can find it all in my FREE 90 min course at this link that teaches all you need to know to get shots like those in the video below:

Luxury property videography is not just about filming high-end homes; it's about capturing the essence, beauty, and unique characteristics of some of the most prestigious properties on the market. If you're considering venturing into this field, you're stepping into a domain where attention to detail, creativity, and technical expertise are paramount. Here’s how to start thinking about doing luxury property videography. (It’s worth noting that the principles found here apply to other areas of real estate as well!)

1. Understand the Luxury Market

Before you even pick up a camera, immerse yourself in the luxury real estate market. Understand what makes a property "luxury." It’s not just the price tag; it’s the architectural details, the location, the materials used, and the lifestyle it offers. Its square footage is also a standard indicator of luxury, though not by itself. The size coupled with the property on which the home sits and the content within being custom or not is most often the determining factor between luxury and high end real estate. The level of detail that needs to be shot in luxury is a league of its own!  By understanding these elements, you can better anticipate what aspects to highlight in your videos.

2. Invest in High-Quality Equipment

Luxury properties deserve luxury treatment. This means using top-of-the-line equipment that can capture every detail in stunning clarity. High-resolution cameras, drones for aerial shots, and advanced stabilizing gear are just a few examples of the tools you'll need. Remember, your video’s quality reflects directly on the perceived value of the property. If you are just starting out, consider lower-mid end camera gear, stabilizing tech, and focus on the fundamentals of lighting techniques on your first few jobs before investing in extremely high end equipment. I always like to push the gear I have to its capacities before moving on to the next thing. Saves money, and makes you a better videographer!

3. Focus on Storytelling

Every home has a story – and that is doubly true for luxury homes that are built with character from the first 2x4s. Whether it’s the history behind its design, The inspiration that gave the builder’s the idea from day one, the unique features they included that set it apart, or the lifestyle it promises, your job as a videographer is to tell that story. This goes beyond just showing rooms; it’s about evoking emotions and allowing potential buyers to envision themselves living in that space, making your work stand out among other videographers.

4. Master Lighting Techniques

Perhaps the thing that makes or breaks a good video walkthrough is lighting. Lighting is crucial in any form of videography, but especially so in luxury property videos. You’ll often be working with large spaces and varied lighting conditions, from natural sunlight streaming through expansive windows to mood lighting in entertainment areas. You may even have to work on some homes at night, when the property lights are on to highlight those colored parts of the home you couldn’t see at day. Mastering how to work with, and even enhance, available light will make your videos stand out.

5. Pay Attention to the Details

Luxury buyers notice the details, and so should you. Make sure your videos capture the fine craftsmanship, the high-end finishes, and the unique features that make the property special. In addition, making sure the shots are consistent and steady is a must even with stabilizing gear. Post editing can only stabilize footage so much. Take time to develop and technique for how you capture steady, smooth shots to stitch together in post. Close-up shots, creative angles, and smooth transitions can help emphasize these aspects.

6. Use Drone Content Wisely

Aerial shots are a staple in luxury property videography. Drone videography provides a unique perspective and showcases the property in relation to its surroundings. However, drone footage should be used strategically – it’s about complementing the story, not just adding cool visuals. Save the dizzying speed ramps for the personal reels. Show the property’s proximity to amenities, its landscaping, or its expansive views to place the property and the home in the context of its environment. It really helps the buyers feel even more connected to the property. 

7. Refine Your Editing Skills

Editing can make or break your video. In luxury property videography, the editing process is where you weave together the narrative, pace the story, and ensure a polished final product. Focus on smooth transitions, color grading that enhances the property’s features, and a soundtrack that matches the vibe of the home. Soundtracks that are upbeat and peppy often move quicker through the home than the laid back calm soundtracks. Choose depending on the feel and story the home is trying to convey.

8. Stay Updated on Trends

The luxury real estate market is ever-evolving, and so are the preferences of high-end buyers. Stay informed about the latest trends in luxury property marketing and videography. Whether it’s incorporating 3D virtual tours or utilizing cinematic techniques, staying ahead of the curve will keep your work relevant and in demand.

9. Collaborate with Real Estate Professionals

Successful luxury property videos are often the result of collaboration. Work closely with real estate agents, property owners, and even interior designers to ensure that your videos meet their expectations and highlight the property’s best features. Make sure to give them a piece of your work before starting the job to ensure they know what to expect moving forward so there are no surprises. Happy clients keep business growing!

10. Build a Portfolio

Start building a portfolio that showcases your ability to handle luxury properties. Even if you begin with smaller projects, focus on delivering high-quality work that you can use to attract more prestigious listings. Starting small is important, because you need to start somewhere, and make sure it is the best work you have done to show to potential clients with bigger projects.

Conclusion

Luxury property videography is a niche that requires more than just technical skills; it demands a deep understanding of the market, a creative eye, and a commitment to excellence. By starting with a strong foundation and continually honing your craft, you can create stunning videos that not only showcase properties but also help sell them. If you're ready to elevate your real estate videography, Check out my FREE course that teaches everything in my method from beginning to end in 90 minutes or less. Click HERE to get started elevating your skills as a real estate videographer today.

Updated Sept 6, 2024 at 4pm, MDT.

For more information about REVideoPros, head to my website or reach out to me on Instagram here. You can also reach me at ron.aguilar@gmail.com.