High-quality photography in real estate is a game-changer. As realtors, we work tirelessly to bring out the best in each property. Stunning photography takes that work to the next level, connecting the right buyer with the right home.
I can’t imagine doing my job without it. After all, when buyers see a beautiful, thoughtfully captured image, they connect emotionally, picturing themselves in that space.
I recently had the pleasure of diving deeper into this topic on my podcast, where I welcomed real estate photographer Pierre Galant. Pierre is a true artist, capturing not only the physical aspects of a home but also the intangible feeling it can bring to life.
Watch the entire podcast episode here.
In this post, I’ll walk you through Pierre’s fascinating career journey and his insights on blending artistic vision with the practical demands of real estate!
Pierre Galant’s Journey in Real Estate Photography
Pierre’s journey to real estate photography started with ZipRealty. As one of the original online listing websites, ZipRealty paved the way for today’s real estate marketplaces. However, it wasn’t without its challenges.
Pierre recounted the initial pushback from agents, especially those who valued traditional, commission-based business models over online discounted ones.
But Pierre’s passion for quality set him apart. After Coldwell Banker acquired ZipRealty, he realized that photography could be more than just documentation—it could be art.
His focus then shifted to capturing a home’s soul, working with agents who deeply valued what they brought to each transaction. Today, he partners with those who understand the role of exceptional photography in preserving their brand and attracting buyers who see value in every detail.
The Art of Capturing Character in Real Estate Photography
Real estate photography is more than capturing rooms—it’s about conveying the soul of a space. Pierre shared how each shot can tell a story, connecting potential buyers to a property’s unique charm and character.
Building a Realtor-Photographer Partnership
Just like realtors partner with other industry experts—mortgage brokers, inspectors, appraisers, etc.—a strong relationship with a photographer like Pierre is essential.
We all rely on each other to make a property listing shine, but photography is one of the most direct methods of reaching potential buyers. Pierre and I discussed how working closely together allows us to create visuals that don’t just show a property—they invite buyers into it.
Pierre intentionally understands his clients’ brands, and I appreciate that attention to detail. He gets that, as a realtor, you’re both a facilitator and a storyteller.
As Pierre put it, our partnership is about bringing a cohesive story to each listing, connecting what makes a home unique with the brand we want to reflect.
Balancing Trends with Realism
Photography styles in real estate aren’t one-size-fits-all, and trends can vary widely across generations.
According to Pierre, younger buyers, especially millennials, prefer cozy, straightforward shots focusing on intimate details. I can relate to this, seeing younger clients drawn to homes that feel welcoming and “real” in photos.
Pierre balances trendy shots with those that reveal the full character of each room. He avoids boxing himself into one style, instead finding the best angle representing the space. This way, he can appeal to different tastes without sacrificing the home’s unique character.
Authenticity Over Excessive Glamour
One of Pierre’s most important insights was about authenticity. He avoids wide-angle shots and heavy editing, which can distort room sizes and create an overly glamorous effect that doesn’t match the reality of the home.
As realtors, we’ve all had buyers walk into a listing only to be disappointed when it looks different from the photos. This mismatch can damage our credibility, so working with a photographer who values honest representation is refreshing.
Pierre believes that buyers deserve the truth. His images focus on accurately representing the space, so there’s never a question of whether a room will meet expectations.
In his view, authenticity sells more effectively than glamour, and I wholeheartedly agree.
Honoring History and Character in Older Homes
As someone who often works with historic properties, I loved hearing Pierre’s approach to photographing older homes. He doesn’t just capture the room; he captures its history.
When working on probate listings, he imagines the life within those walls, the hands that built it, and the stories it holds. This level of respect and attention allows potential buyers to connect emotionally with a home over a hundred years old.
I deeply respect this approach. Older homes have quirks and details that aren’t always “perfect” by modern standards, but that’s where their charm lies.
Pierre’s photography helps honor that uniqueness while attracting buyers who see the value in history.
Intentional Marketing for Unique Properties
Knowing the right buyer is half the battle when it comes to special listings. That’s why I tailor my marketing efforts to reach audiences who appreciate a property's unique details. Pierre’s photos make a huge difference in connecting with these niche buyers.
Podcasting is another way of marketing that has also been useful to me. I’ve found that by working with a professional real estate podcast production company, I was able to start building authority, educate listeners, and foster connections with other experts.
If you’re a realtor considering podcasting, I’d say go for it—it’s a fantastic way to reach clients and grow your network.
Subscribe to the REalizations Podcast to Uncover More Inspiring Stories and Insights from Real Estate Experts!
My conversation with Pierre reminded me of the artistry and depth that photography can bring to real estate. Each photo tells a story, drawing in buyers who connect with a home on a deeper level. His insights on authenticity, honoring history, and working closely with realtors to match their brand have given me new perspectives I can’t wait to apply.
If you’re as fascinated by these stories as I am, I encourage you to tune in to the REalizations Podcast for more episodes like this one. We have some wonderful guests lined up, each bringing their unique expertise.
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in the Bay Area, please contact me. I’m here to help bring your real estate dreams to life!
