A picture says a 1,000 words? It’s true. Carefully chosen photographs, and especially impactful black and white images, speak volumes. Photographs are also very effective in conveying an urban sophistication, evoking happy memories, and subtly telling a story. Because imagery of real subjects and real life can be so powerful, there are some things to consider when using in staging. There is also a myth that needs to be dispelled.
The truth about family photos. The first thing any good real estate broker will say to their seller in regards to prepping their home for market; Take down all personal photos. While I mostly agree with that, there are some photos that can stay. What’s the difference? Photos of highly personal and/or life event centered photos, like weddings or children’s baby pictures, should not stay. Photos that are more subtle in their personal meaning and speak more to an era, general emotion, or location are great. I recently walked through a seller’s home in which she displayed a series of pictures of her grandmother and aunts on the beach in the 20’s. They were charming and happy, and stayed displayed.
Photos are very evocative. In staging, capturing an emotion is the purpose. Photographs are a great tool to achieve this, and to be careful with. Black and white photography is edgy and clear in it’s portrayal of subjects, any subject, people, cities, buildings etc. Color is softer and generally lighter in mood. Ensure that the subject matter of any photograph displayed conjures a good feeling, portrays the natural world, and doesn’t take too strong a stance.
The goal is always to capture the imagination and attention of your buyer, in a good way. Photography is a fantastic way to do that. Use this powerful tool to your advantage. Get the picture? I would love to hear your stories of photography.
