Featured On Francini Inc - Designer Kitchen Spotlight

At the end of 2023, I had the honor of being featured on the Francini Inc blog along side Greensboro interior designer Rebecca Lenz of Lenz Designs. Rebecca was being spotlighted on the Francini Designers of the Month blog and I was given the opportunity to capture the photos of one of her recent projects in the Coldwater Subdivision located in Stokesdale.

Along side Marble Granite World who supplied the beautiful fabrication on the countertops and the amazing craftsmanship of Building Dimensions Inc, the featured kitchen is a masterclass on style.

If you would like to read the full article which showcases more photos as well as the designer elements used to building one of the most amazing kitchens I have ever seen, check out the Francini Inc Designer Spotlight.

Introducing "WHAT IF?": A Triad Coffee Table Book With A Twist

I have had an idea for a coffee table book that centers around the Triad cities of North Carolina for a long time. My first iteration of this book was what could be considered a “traditional” coffee table book. It included both aerial and ground images of various hotspots of each city. After putting it together I looked at it and to be honest it was just “OK”. I wanted a book that wasn’t just a collection of “pretty pictures” but something that was new and fun.

After a few weeks went by I was in the Winston-Salem area getting a few drone photos for a client and found myself on the edge of the city. I figure this would be a great opportunity to get a shot looking into Winston-Salem as most of the photos I had at the moment were taken within downtown. I flew the drone up and took what is one of my favorite shots of Winston. When I got back to the office and I was editing the photo before sending it off and just then a video I was watching on YouTube showed a couple walking through Paris. It was then I had the thought that what would the Winston-Salem skyline looking like if the Eiffel Tower was included?

I didn’t want to just find a photo of the Eiffel Tower and add it in. I want to go the extra step and remove an existing building and then replace that with the Eiffel Tower. This would add an extra layer of difficulty and make the photos more interesting. Once I took the time to remove the Wells Fargo Center building I added in the Eiffel Tower and blending the scenes together to match the lighting and color tones.

After completing the Eiffel Tower image I took the time to look through my catalog of images and see what other places I could edit this way. I found images of Downtown High Point, Downtown Greensboro, Lake Brandt, Bailey South, Revolution Mills, High Point University and more. Come up with all the different variations for these photos as the most fun part about creating this book.

If you would like to see more images created in this series you can order your copy on Amazon.

360 Interactive Tours vs Cinematic Video Walkthroughs: Which One is Best For Real Estate

One of the questions I get asked often when it comes to the types of services to use when promoting a home is “Should I get a Matterport 360 Tour or a Video Tour?”. Some agents actually think these two services are the same and they are drastically different and which one you choose completely depends on how the property is being marketed. In this blog post I will go over what both of these services are and which ones I feel are appropriate based on the type of home.

What Exactly is a Matterport 360 Tour?

You have probably seen or at least heard of a Matterport tour before. Matterport is just the brand/company that pioneered the 360 industry but basically, a Matterport tour is a 360 photo tour. These tours capture a 360 photo of each room or section of rooms and link them together so the viewer can click through the house as if they were walking through it.

These types of tours were very popular during the height of COVID-19 when potential buyers could not physically walk through listings.

Below is an example of what a Matterport tour looks like:

So What Is the Difference Between Matterport and Cinematic Video Tours?

So many people are confused as they think Matterport is a video walkthrough when in fact it is a series of photos that are linked together. A real video tour, or as I call them Cinematic Video Tours, are actual video clips that are compiled to make a “mini-movie” about a listing. One of the main differences between a Matterport tour and a video tour is the ability to limit what is shown to the viewer. You are probably thinking, “Why would I want to limit what a potential buyer sees?". There are many reasons for this but one thing I hear from a lot of agents is that they don’t want to do everything in the marketing as they want the buyer to discover more when they get to the listing. This is huge when it comes to successful marketing. A video tour will give the agent the ability to choose what they want to buy to see where as the Matterport tour sees everything, potentially allowing the buyer to “nitpick” about the home.

Another reason some agents choose videos over Matterport Tours is videos allow them to promote themselves as well as the listing. Using videos to build your brand, like in the example below, is a great way to set yourself apart from other agents.

So which tour is best for your listing? If you want to have the ability to create something that can make your marketing more creative then video is the way to go. If you want to simple walkthrough that will allow the buyer to see the home in its entirety while seeing the “flow” of the home then a Matterport tour is probably right for you.

If you would like to see more information about Matterport Tours, Click Here.

If you are more interested in seeing what types of videos we can create together, Click Here.

Using Instagram Reels to Promote Your Real Estate Listings and A Quick But Powerful Way

In today's digital age, social media has become a vital part of marketing for businesses in every industry. Real estate is no exception. With the rise of Instagram Reels, real estate agents can showcase their properties and engage with potential clients.

Instagram Reels is an Instagram feature that allows users to create short-form videos of up to 60 seconds in length. These videos can be edited with music, text, and filters to make them more engaging and visually appealing. As a real estate agent, using Instagram Reels as a marketing strategy has several benefits that can help you reach a wider audience. This can help you generate more leads.

  1. Showcasing properties in an innovative way Instagram Reels provides a platform for real estate agents to showcase their properties in an innovative and creative way. You can create videos that highlight the best features of the property, such as the view, the kitchen, the backyard, and more. By presenting the property in a visually engaging way, you can capture potential clients' attention and generate interest in the property.

  2. With Instagram Reels, you can reach a wide audience, and your videos can be seen by anyone who follows your account or visits the Explore page. This means that you can reach a wider audience than you would with traditionalmarketing methods. Additionally, by using hashtags and optimizing your content for search, you can increase the visibility of your videos and attract even more viewers.

  3. Building a personal brand Instagram Reels allows you to showcase not only your properties but also your personality and personal brand as a real estate agent. You can create videos that showcase your expertise in the industry, provide tips for buying or selling a property, or simply showcase your personality and interests. By building a personal brand on Instagram, you can establish yourself as a trustworthy and knowledgeable real estate agent and attract more clients.

  4. Real estate agents can engage with potential clients using Instagram Reels in a more personal and interactive way.You can respond to comments, answer questions, and even create videos in response to specific requests from your followers. By engaging with potential clients in this way, you can build relationships and establish trust, which can ultimately lead to more business.

Using Instagram Reels as a marketing strategy for real estate agents can provide several benefits, includingshowcasing properties in a unique way, reaching a wider audience, building a personal brand, and engaging with potential clients. By incorporating this feature into your marketing strategy, you can stay ahead of the competition and attract more clients in today's digital age.

Can Artificial Intelligence Help You Design a Home?

Artificial Intelligence is quickly becoming a big part in many companies workflow. With the rise of ChatGPT and A.I. Voice, anyone can use a variety of A.I. tools to help create almost anything.

One of the more popular A.I. tools is called Midjourny. It gives users the ability to create almost any type of image just by typing text descriptions into a command prompt and Midjourney will create a set of four images based on your descriptions.

Even if you are not a creative type you can create almost anything you can think of. This got me thinking, how can this type of technology be used in the real estate world. One way that can take some time to master but can be very helpful is design. With just a few simple command prompts you can ask services like Midjourney to design any home you can dream up.

Below is a gallery of a few images that were created entirely by A.I. These images are just scratching the surface of what A.I. can accomplish and with time these services will only get better!

How would you use A.I. tools in your business or workflow?

The Importance of Hiring Professional Real Estate Photographers (Written by A.I.)

The following blog post was written entirely by artificial intelligence, A.I. Looks like even a computer knows the importance of hiring a professional photographer to photograph real estate listings 😃

The real estate industry is highly competitive, and in today's digital age, first impressions are more important than ever. One of the most important steps in selling a home is showcasing it in the best possible light. Professional real estate photography can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers and closing a sale.

When a buyer is searching for a new home, the first thing they will see is the property's listing online. A well-photographed home will stand out among the rest and attract more attention from potential buyers. Professional real estate photographers use high-quality equipment and techniques to capture the best angles and features of a home. They know how to use natural light and editing software to create stunning images that show off the property's best features.

Professional real estate photography is not just about taking pictures; it's an art form that requires a unique set of skills and equipment. Professional photographers have the experience and expertise to highlight the features of a home that buyers are looking for. They understand how to capture the right angles and lighting to make a home look its best.

In addition to showcasing the property in the best possible light, professional real estate photography also saves realtors time and effort. A professional photographer can handle all aspects of the photography process, from scheduling the shoot to editing the photos. This allows realtors to focus on other important aspects of their job, such as meeting with clients and closing deals.

Professional real estate photography can also be used to create virtual tours, floor plans, and aerial photography. These tools provide potential buyers with a comprehensive understanding of the property and can help to generate more interest.

While it may be tempting to save money by using amateur photographers or taking the photos yourself, the investment in professional real estate photography is well worth it. The quality of the photos can make or break a potential sale and a professional photographer will be able to create images that are more likely to attract buyers and result in a faster sale.

In conclusion, hiring a professional real estate photographer is an essential step in the process of selling a home. Professional photographers have the skills and expertise to showcase a property in the best possible light and can help to attract more potential buyers. They can also save realtors time and effort, allowing them to focus on other important aspects of their job. Investing in professional real estate photography can make a significant difference in the success of a real estate listing and ultimately help in closing a sale.

Designer Kitchen Shoot for Marble Granite World

I had the opportunity recently to photograph designer kitchens for Marble Granite World out of Kernersville, North Carolina. They contacted me to capture overall images of these amazing kitchens but also detail shots that show off the granite work. I jump at the chance to capture images like these because, as I have said before, it gives me the opportunity to flex a creative muscle and produce images that are styled and edited much differently than regular MLS style photos.

I want to thank Marble Granite World for the opportunity and look forward to working with them in the future.

O2 Fitness Signature at Sunset

I was commissioned by a national lighting company, WLS Companies, to capture both ground and drone images of the Friendly Center located in Greensboro, North Carolina. The purpose of the project is to capture before and afters of the parking lot lighting that will be installed.

When I went out to the Friendly Center on the first night I realized I arrived a bit too early. For the purposes of XLS Companies, the sky needed to be a bit darker. So instead of just waiting in my car, I decided to capture a few twilight images of some key spots. The first building I flew to was the O2 Fitness Complex. I lowered the drone to around 60-feet and capture this beauty! I was lucky enough to get the sunburst in the left corner of the image and I am so proud of this image.

Braydon's Bungalow AirBnB | Greensboro, North Carolina

I recently had the pleasure of photographing an amazing Airbnb located in Greensboro, North Carolina. One of the realtors I work closely with, Kriston Ashley of 360 Realty, renovated a small 3 bedroom 1.5 bath on Buffalo Street to start what I’m sure will be and amazing side business. This is actually the second rental that her and her family have started. With this rental I was able to get the photos showcasing each room as well as the amenities that are offered with the rental.

Along with the photos I also produced a video walkthrough of the property. Other rental owners in the past have asked my opinion about doing video tours of Airbnb’s and Vrbo’s and, to be honest, I have always thought they wouldn’t make a difference. The photos are more easily consumed and what most potential renters will view. That being said, after producing the video (see above) I can definitely see this bringing more eyes to the property. Not only do these videos allow you to be a bit more creative when it comes to showcasing what the property has to offer but it shows the renter that you really care for the property.

I really enjoyed capturing the photos and video for this new Airbnb and can’t wait to help other rental owners markert their properties!

Designer Details in Custom Greensboro Home

I was recently commissioned by Butler Lighting to photograph a custom and newly built home in Greensboro. The owners were not totally moved into the home at the time of the shoot so getting a little creative with the composition and framing of the photos was a must. One of the must have photos was of the great room showcasing the floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace that is complimented by an amazing chandelier.

The kitchen and dining area was another point of interest. The dining room, which had very tall ceilings, had a “false, free hanging” ceiling that was not only stylish but also made the space more cozy.

Lastly, the master bathroom had some amazing features that needed to be captured. The fabulous John-Richard Chandelier transforms what could be a normal bathroom and turns it into a truly luxury and romantic space.

Capturing these photos was a true pleasure and I look forward to more projects with Butler Lighting.

Six Hundred Degrees | Winston-Salem, North Carolina

If you haven’t heard of 600 Hundred Degrees, it is a new fine dining restaurant and bar located in the Bailey South building in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Designed by STITCH Design Shop, this incredible restaurant offers a varied menu, huge wine selection, and a beautifully designed social bar. Six hundred degrees Celsius is the temperature at which gas evaporates from wood in a bonfire to produce embers. They choose to cook over oak & hickory coals, paying homage to their historic local food culture. Above all, fire brings people together. Travis Myers, their Head Chef, is dedicated to regional cooking and celebrate quality products made by local hard-working hands. They are a restaurant that is rooted in southern soul.

I was commissioned by STITCH to capture a variety of commercial and architectural images to not only show Six Hundred Degrees in its best light but also the amazing and thoughtful design that creates a welcoming but sophisticated feel.

2022 Spring PARADE OF HOMES Cover

It is a true honor to be selected as the cover image for the 2022 Spring issue of the Parade of Homes magazine by the Greensboro Builders Association.

The image selected was a image originally commissioned by Gingerich Homes and is my first real cover to be selected for a publication. I have had other images featured in some other publications such as catalogs and other print advertisements but this was my first cover and I am truly humbled and excited at the same time.

Custom Build by Building Dimensions NC

I have said this before in this blog before but photographing designer interiors has to be home of my favorite types of photography. This shoot, commissioned by Building Dimensions was another great experience of being able to slow down a bit and take the time needed to get the best shot possible.

For this photoshoot, we made sure to get the most photos of the main living spaces such as the kitchen, living room, and outdoor living spaces while also getting more of the beautiful master bedroom.

Check out this photos and let me know your thoughts and thank you Building Dimensions for the opportunity.

introducing : Triadlisting.com

Ever since I have started offering real estate videography services I have struggled with the best way to showcase the unbranded version of the videos on the MLS. At first, I would simply share a Vimeo link to the video but some MLS services, depending on the county, will remove the video as simply having a link violates the terms and conditions.

At the beginning of 2020, I decided to create a simple webpage on this website for each video tour so the Realtors could use this link instead. Doing this accomplished the goal of complying with every MLS terms of service but really started to junk up the backend of my site.

I have spent a lot of time thinking of a better solution that would offer more control over the content on the page as well as look more professional. After looking up services that can do this in a more automated fashion, I realized that the fee for the services for something so simple was outrageous. This led me to take matters in my own hands!

I am proud to introduce TriadListing.com!

TriadListing.com is a all new website that is meant for housing a created custom Realtor websites whether big or small! Now, whenever you have a listing that has a video tour, you will receive a custom property page that includes your own custom TriadListing.com URL, embedded video tour, photo gallery, and location map. This is a totally FREE add on!

If you are needing something a little more custom we can certainly accommodate that as well. TriadListing.com will continue to evolve and we are excited to continue to develop this service as well as others to help you with your listings!

Butler Lighting Designer Photoshoot

Being able to take real estate photos for a living is a dream come true but having the opportunity to capture designer style images is the icing on the cake. The images below were commissioned by Butler Lighting and they wanted to now only get more detail images of the lighting but also images that so the amazing design of the room as well. As a matter of fact, as soon as I saw the staging, I knew it was a product of Embellish Home Staging. They are fantastic and I have worked with them many times in the past.

These types of designer shoots are much different than a normal real estate shoot for the MLS. Not only do these types of shoots take a bit more time, both on-site and in editing, but the variety of the photos is different as well. More detail shots are a must and since this shoot was commissioned by a lighting company, obviously concentrating on the lighting was a priority.

Caffey Distributing Design Photoshoot

It’s funny how professional relationships can form over a few photos! In early 2021, I was commissioned to photograph the Bailey South building located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina by Landmark Builders. After completing this project, I was contacted by STITCH Design Shop, the design company behind all of the amazing aesthetics that made the project contemporary and modern.

Fast forward to the Summer of 2021, and I was contacted by STITCH directly to photograph another project designed by them, the Caffey Distributing building in Greensboro, North Carolina. This photoshoot was a bit different than some of the other commercial photoshoots as they wanted to incorporate a human element in some of their photos. Even though I love adding this type of interest in photos not a lot of companies offer to include it. After working with STITCH on this project and getting these types of photos, I will argue companies in the future to consider it.

Linville Luxury Living

Out of all of the homes I have shot, this one has to be in my top ten. This spectacular home located at 8302 Linville Oaks Drive, Oak Ridge, North Carolina not only has a custom layout, four bedrooms, and amazing pool oasis but it also includes a fantastic pool house.

I was commissioned by Carley Mann of REMAX Realty Consultants to produce general photography, cinematic video tour, drone services, as well as twilight photography.

“Looking for your own private oasis, this is it! Stunning home on just over 2 acres in the back of the neighborhood, in a cul-de-sac with an amazing custom pool, paver patio, two tiered deck and amazing pool house/guest house! Enter through the beautiful courtyard area into a large two-story grand foyer. Primary suite on the main level with fireplace, separate vanity areas and a private tucked away study. Beautiful chefs kitchen with a 36" gas range oven, walk-in pantry and opens into the amazing living room that has soaring ceilings, custom millwork and built-ins. Upstairs 3 large bedrooms, 2 large bathrooms and a massive theater and bonus area with wet bar. The pool house/guest house was redone in 2018 with new bath with steam shower, large closet and theater. Custom Copper Ion system heated pool with hot tub, grotto, slide and sun shelf. Fenced in back yard. "Smart" sprinkler system, water softener, walk-in crawl with storage area. Neighborhood walking trail, backs up to common area.”

Design photography for Building Dimensions NC

Timelapse Editing Video from Start to Finish

In the past couple weeks, I had the opportunity to work with Building Dimensions NC and Rebecca Lenz of Lenz Designs on a new construction luxury home located in Greensboro, NC. The goal of this project was to capture a few select rooms that were lightly staged to showcase the architectural features and custom accents of the home.

These types of shoots are drastically different standard real estate shoots. These shoots typically take longer to capture the photos and we work closely with the designer to make sure everything is perfectly placed in the shot. he final images are also a composite of multiple shots. Above you will find a timelapse video showing the editing process for 1 image. You will notice that many things are removed from the image such as speakers, light switches as well as any imperfections that were not noticed on site.

Check out the variety of images from the shoot! Enjoy!

The 206 Sunset Estate

Few homes in Greensboro stand as prominently as this iconic Old Irving Park home. Originally constructed in 1915 in a classic Mediterranean Revivalist style, this home was completely reimagined, restored & renovated in 2016. The addition of a ML primary BR suite, chef's kitchen and both formal & casual DRs enhance the function of the home while protecting its original beauty. Original leaded glass windows were relocated; hardwood and inlaid parquet flooring beautifully refinished; cypress finishes preserved. Each room offers elegance and charm in a comfortable, inviting setting. Upstairs feat large guest en suite that could double as upstairs primary (BA has marble slab walls); plus 2 other BRs w/shared updated full BA. Exposed brick wall is feat of basement rec room w/another full BA. Recently fenced back yard offers quiet setting, incl long reflecting pool w/Koi & gazebo w/stone FP. Adjacent to 14th green of Greensboro Country Club.

Listing with Blue Denim Real Estate

Tiny Home Lifestyle

First off, I love this house and land combination and this project was great to work on! This home is listed with Justin Morris of the J Lucas Home Team with Elevation Realty:

If you are looking for a magazine worthy hide-a-way look no further. This cozy cabin is nestled on 4 acres with a beautiful pond, full size workshop/garage, chicken coop, comes fully furnished, and comes with a 1952 ford tractor! The Cabin also comes FULLY FURNISHED turn key ready! It is located only 5 minutes from the highway, and 15 minutes from downtown Greensboro. This cabin has floor to ceiling picture windows, quartz countertops, and LVT floors. It also has been wired for fiber optic internet! Be prepared when you come, you're never going to want to leave!