Exterior lighting can be just as important as interior lighting when creating a promotional video for a real estate listing.
Not only can the proper lighting help showcase the home’s exterior features, it can also add to the overall atmosphere and appeal of the video. So, when is the best time of day to capture the home in the best possible light? It all depends on the location and compass orientation of the property.
If the home faces east or west, the best time to film may be in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low in the sky and creates a warm, golden glow. This can highlight the architecture and landscaping of the property, as well as create a sense of warmth and welcoming. It is the quintessential best time to capture a home in the best possible light, referred to as the golden hour, which is the hour just after sunrise or just before sunset. During this time, the light is softer and warmer, which can help to create a more inviting and attractive atmosphere.
In fact, the early morning or late afternoon light tends to be the most flattering, as it creates a soft, warm glow that helps to highlight the features of the home. However, if you are filming during normal work/daytime hours (and let’s face it that will be the majority of the time) it is also a good idea to avoid shooting directly into the sun, as this can create harsh shadows and make the video difficult to see. Instead, try to position your smartphones camera so that the sun is behind you, or use natural shade to your advantage.
If the home faces north or south, the lighting may be more consistent throughout the day. In this case, it may be a good idea to film right at mid-day, when the sun is directly overhead and creates a bright, evenly-lit scene. This can help to showcase the details and features of the exterior, such as the roof, windows, and doors.
In addition to choosing the right time of day, it is also important to pay attention to the positioning and intensity of exterior lighting fixtures. For example, using up lighting to highlight the front of the home can create a sense of drama and draw the eye, while down lighting can help to create a sense of warmth and security. It is also a good idea to use a variety of lighting sources, such as wall sconces, lanterns, and string lights, to add depth and interest to the video -even during the daylight hours..
No matter which direction the home faces, be cognizant of harsh shadows and bright reflections or highlights, which can be distracting and unflattering. As a remedy for this try to find a spot in the shade from which to capture video clips of the exterior of the home.
Overall, the key to successful exterior lighting for real estate videos is to be mindful of the time of day and the direction of the light and to use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to showcase the best features of the home. By following these tips, you can create a promotional video that will help to sell your listing.
