1950s Cardiff Beach Bungalow Masterpiece

Last week I got to shoot another GEM by Jim Frisbee of Frisbee Architects. I love that he maintained the character of this 1950s Cardiff beach bungalow. The square footage added was only in the ADU that was built above the garage. And, er mer gerd, I want to LIVE in the ADU!!! Check out some of my favorites. Also, huge kudos goes to the rest of the crew that brought this property back to life...

Architecture: Frisbee Architects

Interior Design: Erica DeLorme Design

Landscape Design: Garden Studio Design

Builder: Travis McCaw (T-Mac Construction)

"Behind the Lens: Capturing Elegance at Dior, Hermes, Burberry, and Gucci"

In the realm of high-end luxury retail, every detail matters. From the carefully crafted displays to the ambiance of the space, these prestigious brands invest heavily in creating an immersive and opulent experience for their customers. Recently, I had the privilege of being hired to photograph some of the most iconic names in the fashion industry – Dior, Hermes, Burberry, and Gucci. As I stepped into each store, camera in hand, I couldn't help but marvel at the level of sophistication and attention to detail that defines these establishments.

The importance of professional photography for these luxury brands extends far beyond merely documenting their products. It plays a pivotal role in shaping their brand identity and influencing customer perception. Here's a glimpse into why professional photos are critical for these stores and their esteemed brands.

1. Visual Storytelling: Elevating the Brand Narrative

Luxury brands are built on stories – tales of craftsmanship, heritage, and exclusivity. Through the lens of a professional photographer, these narratives come to life in a visual symphony. Each click captures not just a product but the essence of the brand, weaving a visual story that resonates with the target audience. From the meticulous stitching of a Hermes scarf to the timeless elegance of a Dior gown, every image contributes to the brand's overarching narrative.

2. Aesthetic Consistency: Crafting a Seamless Experience

Consistency is key in the luxury retail world. Professional photographs ensure a uniform and cohesive visual language across various platforms – from the storefront window to online catalogs and social media. Whether a customer is browsing the website or walking into a physical store, the aesthetic continuity reinforces the brand's image, creating a seamless and recognizable experience.

3. Highlighting Craftsmanship: Showcasing the Artistry

Luxury brands are synonymous with craftsmanship and attention to detail. High-quality images are essential for showcasing the intricate workmanship that goes into creating each product. From the fine stitching on a Gucci leather bag to the signature patterns of a Burberry trench coat, professional photos highlight the artistry behind the products, elevating them from mere commodities to works of art.

4. Creating Aspirational Appeal: Fostering Desire

Luxury is not just about the product; it's about the lifestyle and the aspiration it evokes. Professional photography has the power to create a sense of desire and exclusivity. The carefully curated images transport customers into a world of elegance and refinement, igniting a desire to be a part of that world.

5. Social Media Impact: Connecting with the Digital Audience

In the age of social media dominance, the visual appeal of luxury brands must extend to digital platforms. Professional photographs are tailor-made for capturing attention in a crowded online space. Striking visuals shared on Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms not only engage current customers but also attract new ones, expanding the brand's reach in the digital realm.

The role of professional photography in the success of high-end luxury retail stores cannot be overstated. It goes beyond a simple snapshot; it is a strategic investment in shaping the brand's image, fostering desire, and creating a lasting impression on the discerning clientele. As I reflect on my experience photographing these iconic stores, I am reminded that each click of the shutter contributes to the visual legacy of these esteemed brands, capturing a moment of elegance that transcends time.

Restoring a Classic in La Jolla

Photographing real estate, usually the challenge is to accentuate the positives of a property and minimize the negatives. And if I'm being honest, I can sometimes make a house look better than it actually is in person. Once in a while, though, a house comes along that simply doesn't have a bad angle. It's no longer my job to improve upon it, it's just to get out of the way and reveal it. That said, older homes like this one, with beautiful dark wood can definitely gobble up the light and present its own challenges. Still, I felt like a kid in a candy store shooting this one and think, in the end, I did it justice. Almost 20 years ago, the renovations to bring it back to it's original glory (it was originally built by master woodworker and architect, Herbert E. Palmer back in 1925 and renovated by Trip Bennett of Arista Architects), drew the attention of the architectural world, and the owners had many offers to have it photographed for the world to see. They declined and as such, I'm the first person to photograph it since it was redone.

Well known San Diego architect, Trip Bennett oversaw the renovations and it's now for sale, represented by Linda Daniels and Regin Daniels Rubin of The Daniels Group for a cool $8,650,000. I hope you like some of my favorite images.

Designer Showcase: Massey Design Group - A Stunning Aviara Kitchen Remodel

As interest rates continue to rise, homeowners will become increasingly reluctant to give up their low interest fixed-rate mortgages from a few years ago. Many will instead look to turn the dated home they can’t afford to leave into the home of their dreams. Enter designer Mary Massey, who turned this very basic builder grade tract home kitchen into a chef’s dream that will almost certainly become the family hub for her lucky clients. What I love about Mary’s design is that she’s not afraid to incorporate a little color. So many kitchens play it completely safe with all black and white. Check out these gorgeous bluish-green (seafoam?) backsplash tiles. Amazing. Every detail in Mary’s design is spectacular. Enjoy the before and after photos to get a real sense of what you can do to a kitchen if you hire the right person. And be sure to check out more of Mary Massey’s work at her website here.

Designer Showcase: Massey Design Group

One thing I love about my job is how many DIFFERENT types of photography I’m asked to perform. Early in my career, I shot weddings almost exclusively. I still love wedding photography, but it’s no longer my main focus (pun intended). Over the past ten years or so, I’ve found incredible artistic fulfillment in photographing architecture and real estate in all forms. You’d rightly think first of photographing houses for realtors as probably the most common part of that business, but lately, I’ve been getting more and more requests from architects and designers to document their latest creations. Frankly, I’m often shocked when I look at the websites and social media accounts for both of the above and see that their “after” photos, ostensibly showcasing their months of hard work, and they’re shot on cell phones with zero consideration for lighting or composition! SUCH a lost opportunity.

Thankfully, there are still those who understand the value of professionally documenting their work. Recently, I got a call from designer, Mary Massey, who said her longtime photographer had moved away and she was looking for a replacement. She had just completed work on a kitchen remodel in Carlsbad and could I give it a shot. There’s always a moment where you hold your breath when working with a new client, but the second I walked into this gorgeously finished kitchen, I knew my job would be easy.

The challenge of this type of photography is to both create great light where there is often none present, while at the same time, not drawing too much attention to the photography itself and letting the space shine. It’s a fine line and one of my favorite challenges of this type of photography. Happily, my new client seemed thrilled with the results and I look forward to working with her again very soon. Enjoy her amazing work below and go to her website at www.masseydesigngroup.com to see more. Keep in mind, the photography of her work you’ll see there is still entirely from the previous photographer.

The Use of Drone Photos to Sell Properties: Benefits and Importance of Hiring a Licensed Part 107 Drone Pilot

In recent years, the use of drone technology has become increasingly popular in real estate, as it offers a unique and advantageous perspective when showcasing a property. Whether you are a real estate agent, property owner, or developer, using drone photos can greatly enhance the selling process of a property. Here are some of the benefits of using drone photos and the importance of hiring a licensed Part 107 drone pilot.

Benefits of Using Drone Photos

1. Improved Property Presentation: Drone photos provide a complete and detailed overview of a property, including its surroundings, landscape, and location. This can give potential buyers a better understanding of the property and its potential, as well as its relationship to the surrounding environment.

2. Increased Visibility: Drone photos can capture a property from an aerial perspective, providing a unique and captivating view that can stand out in a crowded market. This can increase the visibility of a property and attract more potential buyers.

3. Cost-Effective: Hiring a drone pilot is often more cost-effective than traditional aerial photography methods, such as helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft. Additionally, the images captured by drones are of high quality and provide a unique perspective that can save time and money compared to traditional methods.

Importance of Hiring a Licensed Part 107 Drone Pilot

1. Legal Compliance: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates the use of drones for commercial purposes. Hiring a licensed Part 107 drone pilot ensures that the operation of the drone is in compliance with all federal regulations, avoiding potential legal consequences.

2. Professionalism: A licensed Part 107 drone pilot is a professional who has completed the necessary training and certification to operate a drone for commercial purposes. This ensures that the drone photos captured are of high quality and professional standard.

3. Safety: A licensed Part 107 drone pilot has the necessary training and knowledge to operate a drone safely, avoiding potential safety hazards such as collision with other aircraft, power lines, and buildings.

In conclusion, the use of drone photos in real estate can greatly enhance the selling process of a property by providing improved property presentation, increased visibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, it is crucial to hire a licensed Part 107 drone pilot to ensure legal compliance, professionalism, and safety.

THIS is why realtors are worth every cent!

Once again I’m blown away at the level of service my good friend, and Compass realtor, Michelle Ozanne, consistently gives her clients.  Whether it’s a multi-million dollar estate or something a bit more modest like this beautiful home, she ALWAYS makes sure that it will show as favorably as humanly possible.  As a real estate photographer, the fact that she stages all of her homes, makes my job SO much more interesting and frankly, easy. Try shooting an empty house and make it look warm and inviting to a prospective buyer.  Good luck. Instead, have a look at these photos and tell me you don’t want to just grab your toothbrush and move in.  Beyond just the staging, I have to add, having used Michelle Ozanne, to sell our house just a few months ago, her passion and commitment THROUGHOUT the whole buying and selling process was unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

Of course, it doesn’t hurt at all that the current owners did such an amazing job renovating and updating just about everything, especially the gorgeous hardwood floors.  At a bit under 2000 square feet, this won’t be for everyone (the current owners having just welcomed their 3rd child simply outgrew it), but for the right buyer, this will be absolutely perfect.  The backyard is surrounded by high fences and MASSIVE trees that give this home oodles of privacy.

Now, if I had ONE criticism of Michelle it’s that she was so excited to share and preview this amazing home, that she posted CELL PHONE pics of the house rather than waiting just a few hours to get my shots.  She clearly didn’t read my previous blog post about my other friend, Joanna, who was going to use a cell pic for a business headshot! Maybe I should entitle this one, Friends Don’t Let Friends Sell Homes Using iPhone pics!  That said, like Joanna, even in an iphone photo, this house looked amazing and I have zero doubt that it will sell in a very big hurry! Enjoy some of my favorite pics!!!

Ocean View Stunner in San Elijo Hills

The trouble with Murphy’s law is, it’s usually right and almost always negative.  When it comes to photographing real estate, Murphy’s law usually comes in the form of the weather not cooperating on shoot day AND it will have been gorgeous the day before.  Murphy was in RARE form when it came to shooting this STUNNING semi-custom home in San Elijo Hills. Now normally I can work around a less than sunny day for shooting a house, sometimes it’s even better.  However, when you’re shooting an over 6000 square foot home with drop dead views of the Pacific Ocean, even a sunny day doesn’t always cut it.  

When Compass realtor, Shiann Haydon, called me to shoot for her this past Friday, mother nature REALLY made us work for it (and yes, Thursday was crystal clear and a postcard day).  Yes, Friday was sunny, but as so often happens, there was just enough moisture in the air to completely hide the ocean from my lens. Nonetheless, I shot what I could and we made a plan to return on Saturday.  So I returned at 7am...no good. And again at 11am...no good. And AGAIN at sunset...no good. Sun yes, ocean no. Ugh.  

Then Sunday rolled around and with it, the rain.  Total washout. At this point, Shiann and I were more than a little stressed.  Could we get it on Monday and then turn images around to list on Tuesday??? Finally around 1pm the clouds began to clear and the sun broke through.  Rather than trusting the weather app, which said it would be clear at sunset, I crossed my fingers and drove back to the house for a FIFTH time. And guess what, I could see the ocean!!!  I ran around the house like a kid in a candy store shooting all the views and even re-shooting a bunch of interior shots that showcased the ocean view. I even got the drone up for a killer shot showcasing the nearly 50,000 square foot lot and it’s unique placement atop San Elijo Hills looking down to the Pacific.

I had hoped to wait for some golden hour magic, but sadly, as the sun dropped toward the horizon, that diabolical marine layer reared it’s misty head once again.  The ocean was gone. So, five trips, and about ten hours over three days to get the images that would “normally” (as if there is such a thing) take about two hours in one day.  But if you’re still reading this, have a look at the images and you tell me if it was worth it. And while some photographers would say I’m crazy to put this much time and effort into one house, I realize it’s worth going the extra mile and hopefully get a client for life.  

If you’re interested in this gorgeous home, there are open houses scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  Contact Shiann Haydon at Compass Encinitas