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HDR Photos vs. Unedited Photos

By James Avera

Services for Real Estate Pros with AD Photography - Graphic Design

October 21, 2009 01:51 AM

Recently I posted a note regarding an editing process referred to as HDR. I have, up until now, shied away from this process as I felt the end result looked "fake" or "over-worked". I always make it a point to scan the blogosphere for dynamic ideas and trends in real estate photography. Over the past year or so I have seen the demand for these types of images increase dramatically. So below I have shown some examples of minimally edited photos compared to HDR photos. Below that I have included some examples of what I feel, looks WAY over worked. What are your thoughts????

Below are 2 examples of some images that I feel to be WAY too overworked. While they are beautiful, I think for the purpose I am using them for, its just not a good fit.

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Eric Bouler

Gardner Realtors, Licensed in La. - New Orleans, LA

Listening to your Needs

Some are richer than others. Sometime it makes little difference. Knowing what they are I would prefer the natural effect. You can mix them by taking the outside ones one way and the interior shots the other way.

Oct 21, 2009 01:58 AM

Roy Kelley

Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

The overdone pictures would tend to turn off prospects. Most are looking for the best pictures of the actual condition.

Oct 21, 2009 02:02 AM

James Avera

AD Photography - Graphic Design - Mobile, AL

I absolutely agree. Thats the reason I have held out as long as possible. I use this process minimally compared to some of the other guys and will agree that it makes everything look warm and inviting...but there is definitely a FINE LINE between warm and fuzzy and WAY overdone. Thanks guys for the comments!

Oct 21, 2009 02:07 AM

Julia Odom

Select Realty Professionals - Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga Homes for Sale

I like the slightly fuzzy stuff myself. It can turn a really ho hum photo into something with some depth and visual interest. I apply the exact same process to all of my RE photos and I think it gives my pictures a certain recognizable look. Almost like branding myself with photos.

The examples you have are great (processed or not). The overdone ones have a time and place, just not RE photography of course.

Oct 21, 2009 02:21 AM

Herb Hamilton

RE/MAX Preferred Inc. Realtors - Portland, OR

Real Estate Broker ,CDPE, Downtown Portland

I have an HDR editor and recently bought a camera that will bracket my shots. I have not however used it for any advertising. Being too overworked is the reason why.

I do intend however to use it once I master the technique of how much is just right vs how much is too much.

Oct 21, 2009 03:20 AM

Sharon Alters

Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty - 904-673-2308 - Fleming Island, FL

Realtor - Homes for Sale Fleming Island FL

James, if you wanted to do a stunning shot of an exeterior or an incredible water or mountain view, then HDR might be great. But those last two - look like bad paintings. When a photo trends toward looking 'animated' or just something's funny about it, you could be doing a disservice for your listing.

If you want one eye-catching shot for a marketing piece, that's different. But for 20+ photos of a house, it's overkill unless you just can't take a decent shot (and anyone who can do HDR certainly can take a decent shot). Interesting post.

Nov 24, 2009 01:10 AM

I CERTAINLY agree. The last 2 are photos that I feel are too overworked. I think HDR images definitely set a new standard (when processed correctly). With the thousands of listings out there, we have to stand out. I think when done correctly, the end result helps the listing tremendously. We would NEVER create an image that short changes a home...our goal is to visually translate what is already there. I think there is a good blend for most people. I have however seen some that take it a bit too far. THANKS EVERYONE for your thoughtful and enlightening posts! HAPPY THANKSGIVING btw.

Nov 24, 2009 01:28 AM

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