A realtor wears many hats including staging, marketing, showing homes, setting up behind-the-scenes meetings, negotiating, and taking calls at all times of the day (night) just to name a few! Many times, families will spend months interacting with this person who they are putting trust in to help them make big decisions. When you think about it, you don’t just want a professional who can chat with the other pros, you want a down-to-earth and kind human being as a realtor. Someone with whom you can share concerns with while believing they are a decent individual that is watching out for your best interests. With that being said, a first impression is important and oftentimes, comes down to a picture on a website or a flyer in the mailbox. If the photo gives the distinct impression that a realtor is cold and distant, they are probably not getting the business they were hoping for.
So how do realtors make sure to present themselves professionally, yet warm? If you google “realtor pictures” online, all that you used to see were a suit jacket, crossed arms, white or marbled backdrop, and a stoic expression. Now, fortunately, you’ll see friendly smiles, real-life backdrops, interactions with “clients”, and beautiful homes in the background. All of these things help to view realtors as relatable.
Recently, I had an agent reach out who wanted headshots that included a professional background as well as a more natural setting with a home. There were 3 ways we worked to help her relatable and genuine side shine through.
First, she had a smile that worked its way up to her eyes. It may seem obvious but a realtor’s expression helps to convey the warmth you are trying to have in camera. In her case, and in many others, you can have variety with smiles (some show teeth, some do not.) Regardless, as long as you make sure the smile is not fake and stiff, you are good to go.
Second, if you use a paper backdrop, make sure to also include real-life settings for an alternative look. I’m more likely to choose someone out of a lineup as a genuine person if I can see them in a setting that I’m familiar with (i.e. kitchen, living room, front porch, etc.)
Third, posing is super important! We’ve all been taught about body language and how it speaks louder than our words. As a therapist, I often spent a session or two helping teenagers in that awkward stage show others that they are socially friendly and open to listening. It’s not unusual to have crossed arms occasionally and that can show confidence in some situations as opposed to being closed off. However, don’t make that your go-to pose. Do some with “open” body language, with arms uncrossed and interacting with items in the environment.
OK! I know I said three tips but here's a bonus! 99% of the time, a realtor will not have their feet in the photo. (That’s why it’s called a “headshot.”) If that is the case, let them go barefoot or have them wear their Nikes! Any shoes and clothing that is going to help them feel comfortable and at ease will usually translate into natural expressions.
If you are a realtor (or brand photog), I hope these tips help you slay your next session!
