Photo courtesy Space Constructions Story: picture perfect Sarah O'Donovan A picture tells a thousand I n the home building industry we know a small without needing to move old and existing furniture words and, with the investment goes a long way. This is especially true or clutter around. in the renovations sector where a few thousand • This also means the home is clean. No hidden right styling and post- dollars can boost a home’s value exponentially. scuff marks lurking behind a strategically production, can turn a You’ve probably heard this sentiment echoed by positioned couch. house into a home. property gurus when it comes to home styling • While you may not have a direct need for images and professional photography, but if you’re in the upon completion, you will find plenty of uses in the business of building homes, not selling them – future. Typically after the owners have moved in. does it matter to you? Much like a renovation, what you invest in styling Just as important to your business as keeping your and photography will earn itself back many times clients happy and delivering saleable homes is how you over. Imagery of your work can be used to produce present your work to the world. The most structurally- marketing collateral such as ads, an online photo sound and innovative house won’t become a home if gallery, social media content and more. And no one can see themselves living in it. while smart phones are great for capturing ‘in the When you finish a home – even if it won’t be moment’ and ‘behind the scenes’ images onsite, going on the market and the owners are ready professionally produced shots will add an element to move in – you should consider handing the of esteem to your brand’s identity and generate keys over to a photographer and a stylist prior to business from clients looking for quality. occupancy (remember to allow a few days for this in your contracts). A collection of your work can prove useful for a variety of other applications, too: There are a few reasons to have professional, • Award entries. If you’re entering your project into any staged photos taken atthis point: awards you’ll usually need around 10 photos. While • You have full access to the home so whoever you these need to highlight your workmanship, they hire won’t need to coordinate their work around a should also show an inviting and liveable home. family schedule. • Portfolios. Just because you’ve been working for Photo courtesy Uniqwa • The home is a blank canvas, this means a stylist years, doesn’t mean you can forget about your will be able to make the most of the home professional portfolio. Every professional should 74 HOUSING SEPTEMBER 2018 INTERIORS • STYLING