When you show vs. tell you create a more powerful message and are way ahead in the marketing game. Therefore, using pictures to illustrate your point is important, but even more important is using pictures to tell a story that engages your viewer. Easier said than done. It takes a great photographer, advanced planning, and the ability to construct a compelling narrative. Let me explain some of the key elements in telling a great visual story.
When You Create a Story - Less is More
Just like the fact that a long speech is seldom better than a short one, a good photo story isn’t a data dump of images - less is more. Show fewer, better pictures that include as many elements as possible to help tell your story. For example, in the images below we see the living room and kitchen front and center but you can also see into the bedroom. This tells a bigger story without the need for multiple photos. It is also creates visual intrigue about what is in those rooms or behind those other doors.
Another example of this technique uses an outdoor shot to show multiple facets of a property. The picture below quickly tells us the property is located on the water in an urban environment. As you look farther into the image you realize this property is a wonderful place to sit on your patio to watch a sunset, gather with friends, walk your dog, or perhaps even go for a boat ride. No need for multiple shots - this well composed photo says it all, and tells a great story.
Creating a Mood
Sometimes an important part of telling the story is creating mood. By combining subject matter, composition, lighting and perspective you can create a mood that far surpasses what you could do with words. The image below, although devoid of people, radiates energy and the potential for fun and good times. What better way to sell people on your location than establishments that will engage with your target audience. The second image illustrates a different mood and creates a different type of story with a cozy, protected roof deck perfect for entertaining friends or just relaxing on a summer evening.
People
People love watching people. When you see a well composed image with people a story immediately begins to unfold. This picture is focused on the lone bicycle rider. If you are like most people you will ask yourself who are they, where are they going? This leads to the larger story of their surroundings and how they live.
Composition and Perspective
The same location shot with a different composition and perspective can drastically change your story. The first image below shows a somewhat intimate scene of three chairs. However by walking a few steps to the right the second image tells a completely different story.
Let Us Help You Tell the Right Story
Every type of property needs the right story to connect with your target audience. New, old - or just coming out of the ground - we take Commercial, Corporate, Academic, and Residential (home, apartment, condo) properties and build a great story. It may be the story of its architecture, amenities, neighborhood, points of interest, mass transit access, or fun restaurants. Whatever the objective don’t just settle for a picture - instead tell a story.
If you need architectural photography I offer two important services at no charge to you:
- A free brainstorming session to identify the right story.
- A free pre-shoot walk-through to stage shots, and identify opportunities to get the perfect narrative
At Shupe Studios our goal is to wow your audience. If you’re in the Boston area or greater New England, I hope you’ll reach out to me.
We provide one stop shopping for great photography.