Today’s Photoshop tutorial addresses a very common problem that many of us encounter when shooting landscapes, environmental portraits, and other photographs outdoors. It occurs when your camera is pointed up or down, rather than flat to the horizon.
In such circumstances you’ll notice a weird perspective in your photos with converging vertical lines, be they tilted trees or crooked buildings in cityscape images and portraits with structures in the background. In this Photoshop tutorial from the popular PHLEARN YouTube channel you’ll learn how to easily fix these problems and other frustrating perspective issues.
Instructor Aaron Nace is an image-editing expert with a variety of helpful post-processing lessons on his channel. Today he demonstrates how to straighten vertical lines, merge layers seamlessly, and use Photoshop’s powerful Transform and Perspective Warp tools. You’ll also discover how Photoshop’s Generative Fill tool can automatically correct backgrounds and remove distortion.
When it comes to portrait photos the trick involves cutting out the subject, fixing the skewed lines, and then placing the subject back in the corrected image. In the case of his first example the buildings in the background converge toward the top of the frame because the camera was pointed upward while Nace shot the portrait. This fix starts by clicking on the Select tab atop the screen, and then choosing Subject from the dropdown menu that appears.
You don’t want to use the Warp tool for this task because it can make faces and bodies look really strange. Instead Nace duplicates the Background layer and drags it to the New Layer icon at the bottom of the screen. He then explains what to do so the subject appears on a plain white layer.
Now Nace creates a new version of the background that doesn’t include his model. He then explains how to use Generative Fill to quickly straighten the buildings. From there it’s a simple matter to add his subject back into the scene.
The foregoing is just one of the tools and techniques you’ll learn how to use in less than 20 minutes. By the time you’re done watching, photos with a distorted perspective will be a thing of the past. You can find more great editing methods like these by paying a visit to the PHLEARN instructional YouTube channel.
We also encourage you to watch another tutorial we posted recently that demonstrates how to use both positive and negative Clarity to edit landscape photos for maximum impact.
How often have you changed lenses when shooting in the field or switched subject matter, say from a landscape scene to a macro or wildlife photo? If you’re like most photographers you do so frequently, which is why the tutorial below is a real game changer.
Instructor James Vooght is professional landscape photographer who posts weekly lessons on a wide variety of subjects. In this episode he explains how to master your camera’s custom settings, so you’re immediately prepared for whatever situations you encounter outdoors.
The idea is to helpyou avoid missing a perfect shot because you’re fumbling around to switch gears from one shooting style or scenario to another. Vooght puts it like this: “You’ll learn how to save your favorite settings and transition effortlessly so you can capture the perfect moment. Sound good?
All modern cameras offer the opportunity to create and save custom settings. Once you’ve configured these to your liking you can immediately access the options with your camera’s Custom Functions button or Mode dial. And you can witch from one choice to another in an instant.
Vooght reveals the Custom Settings he uses and describes three situations that may call for one of these options. And because everyone’s shooting styles differ you also see how easy it is to create custom functions that best suit your specific needs.
One of the three Custom Setting on Vooght’s camera is what he uses for everyday landscape photography with a 24-70mm zoom. He also has the camera configured so that it reverts to this “default” option whenever he turns the camera on. That way the camera is automatically set to ISO 400 with a shutter speed of 1/400 and an aperture of f/16. This way he has a baseline exposure that can be quickly modified as needed.
Vooght has another Custom Setting that he uses for wildlife and sports photography. Here the camera is optimized for fast-moving subjects and for whenever focus tracking is required. As you can expect, these settings are significant different from those he employs for static landscape scenes. Here the key is freeing action, with continuous back-button focus and the appropriate exposure options.
The final Custom Setting on Vooght’s camera is designed for long-exposure photography when a sense of movement is desired, like capturing soft-flowing water or cotton-like clouds moving across the sky. Here the settings reflect the fact that the camera is mounted atop a tripod. Thus image stabilization is deactivated, a two-second timer is activated, and his base exposure is configured in a specific appropriately.
By following Vooght’s advice you’ll be very well prepared when situations in the field change or you switch lenses for the task at hand. After watching the video take a look at Vooght’s instructional YouTube channel for more helpful tips and tricks.
Nikon just announced the Z f, a retro-styled full-frame mirrorless that artfully blends the most modern technology from the Nikon Z 8 and Z 9 models with the timeless aesthetics of Nikon’s legendary 35mm cameras of yesteryear—and adds a heaping helping of new innovation as well.
Featuring a magnesium-alloy body built around a 24.5-megapixel full frame BSI CMOS sensor and Nikon EXPEED 7 processing engine, the Z f is the first Nikon camera capable of pixel-shift capture mode. Creating images up to 96 megapixels, the Z f makes microadjustments to the image sensor position when capturing between 4, 8, 16 or 32 Raw format (NEF) files.
More Firsts
For video shooters, the Z f is first Nikon camera to feature video recording in shutter-priority auto mode, letting the user select the shutter speed, while the camera adjusts the aperture and ISO. The Z f is also the first full-frame Z-series mirrorless camera to be equipped with a Vari-angle touchscreen monitor.
Designed to appeal to even the most diehard advanced shooters, Nikon has added a dedicated B&W photo mode that’s selected via an external switch. The new monochromatic Picture Controls include high-contrast Monochrome, Flat Monochrome and Deep Tone Monochrome.
Additionally, the new Z f provides VR (vibration reduction) 5-axis image stabilization equivalent to an 8.0-stop increase in shutter speed—the most advanced VR of any Nikon Z.
Another first, the newest Nikon supports Touch Fn for adjustment of camera settings while framing pictures in the viewfinder. Users can adjust the focus point via the LCD screen while peering in the viewfinder.
New features for portrait photographers include the skin softening function and a portrait impression balance function plus new Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control to enhance details of the subject’s complexion.
The Nikon Z f has two memory card slots, one for UHS II SD cards and the other for Micro SD.
Hold on to Your Hat
Similar to the current Nikon Z fc APS-C mirrorless [read our review here], the Nikon Z f has color options. In addition to traditional black-on-black, you can choose Indigo Blue, Sepia Brown, Bordeaux Red, Sunset Orange, Moss Green or Stone Gray. Available in limited quantities, the colorful models are to be sold exclusively through the Nikon Store.
Price and Availability
The new Nikon Z f will be available around mid-October 2023 for $1999.95 (body only). Other configurations include the Nikon Z f body with a Nikkor Z 40mm f/2.0 SE ($2239.95) or with the Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/4 ($2599.95). The body-only price for any of the six color options is $2099.95.
Ever find yourself lost in the intricate details of a grand mansion or mesmerized by the sweeping vistas from an oceanfront condo? The secret behind such captivating images often lies with a skillful drone pilot, masterfully capturing real estate photography.
Real estate agents are increasingly recognizing drones as more than just flying cameras – they’re tools that can make listings stand out and attract potential buyers.
For those already experienced in aerial photography or for the advanced level professional looking to take their skills up a notch, choosing the right equipment is essential.
We’ll be looking at easy-to-use options like the DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo and Ruko F11 Pro Drones – great for beginners, but we won’t shy away from more advanced picks either.
Understanding the Importance of Drones in Real Estate Photography
Drones have opened up new possibilities for showcasing properties in their entirety. They’re able to capture unique angles and views that conventional ground-based photography simply can’t match. This makes property listings stand out and provides potential buyers with a better understanding of the property layout, size, and surroundings.
The Role of Drone Technology in Modern Real Estate Business
One might ask: why are drones so pivotal? Well, consider what you’d like as a buyer – wouldn’t you prefer seeing every angle of your prospective purchase?
A report from NAR (National Association Of Realtors) highlights how since COVID began, virtual staging via videos or drone photographs has become increasingly important – adopted by seven out of ten agents. Now isn’t that something?
Making Listings Stand Out With Aerial Photos
We live in an era where people shop for homes online before they ever set foot on the actual property. High-quality aerial photos captured by drones give potential buyers a bird’s-eye view which not only looks cool but also gives them useful information about land boundaries and neighborhood amenities.
Beyond Just Beautiful Images: Mapping And 3D Modeling
Drones do more than just take beautiful images; they’re tools used for creating detailed maps or even 3D models. This helps real estate agents offer virtual tours that are as close to the real thing as possible. The use of drones has transformed property listings into immersive, interactive experiences where you do not need to travel to see your new prospective home, especially if its distant or in another country.
Choosing the Right Drone for Real Estate Photography
With so many drone models on the market, like DJI Mavic Air or Autel Evo Lite, it can be challenging to know which one is right for your needs. Key features such as camera quality (think MP in photography), flight modes and wind resistance should all factor into your decision-making process.
Essential Features to Look for in a Drone for Real Estate Photography
Selecting the right drone can make your real estate listings stand out. Let’s look into the features that matter most.
Importance of Camera Quality and Image Sensor
A quality camera is crucial, especially one with an excellent image sensor. This is because it directly impacts the clarity and details captured in each photo or video shot by your drone.
The DJI Air 3, renowned for its 48MP camera and half-inch image sensor, exemplifies what to look for. Its impressive ability to capture sharp images makes it perfect for real estate photography.
Beyond megapixels (MP), consider drones with larger sensors as they often perform better in low light conditions – ideal when shooting interiors or at dusk/dawn, which can make a real estate listing stand out, especially if the location is known for scenic views.
Understanding Flight Time and Battery Life
Prolonged flight time means more shots per session. So, battery life becomes critical while selecting a drone model.
Drones like Autel EVO Lite boast commendable 40 minute flight times allowing you ample opportunity to get those coveted aerial photos of properties.
In addition to these key aspects, let’s also touch on other notable factors:
Size: A smaller size could allow ease of transport without compromising functionality; smallest drones like DJI Mini are worth considering here.
Gimbal Stabilization: This feature provides stable footage even during turbulent flights; DJI Mavic shines due its superior gimbal stabilization system.
Range: A drone with a good range gives flexibility to capture properties from various distances. Remember, local laws may limit how far you can fly your drones.
Don’t forget to look into different recording formats, like RAW or JPEG. RAW gives you the largest files but it also allows for post processing without image quality loss and other benefits.
Also, consider obstacle avoidance tech. It is not easy to fly a drone in close quarters or where there are objects such as trees and structures on the property, or inside a building. Obstacle avoidance can save your life in more than one way. It can keep your expensive equipment from getting wrecked and you from losing a job if your drone crashes into an object on the property.
Lastly, get a drone with a remote that has a screen or option to use a smartphone as a screen to see what the drone sees. You want to be able to view what the footage will look like while also being able to see the drone in the air with your naked eye. FPV or VR goggles may be fun to wear to see what your drone sees, but unless you have all directional object avoidance technology in your drone and trust it 100% or someone with you to let you know if you get too close to objects, I would stay away from goggles.
Beginner-Friendly Drones Suitable for Real Estate Photography
If you’re just starting out in the realm of real estate drone photography, it’s essential to locate a drone that is both simple to utilize and can produce top-notch visuals. We’ve narrowed down two beginner-friendly drones perfect for your needs.
DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo
The DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo, an ultralight foldable drone, is ideal for those new to the world of aerial photography. Despite its small size, this DJI mini model packs impressive features. Its camera boasts a resolution of up to 4K which ensures crystal clear photos every time.
DJI Mini 2
This tiny titan also offers up to 31 minutes flight time – plenty enough for multiple takes on each property listing (and the fly more combo includes extra batteries). It has advanced wind resistance too, so even on breezy days, your shots will remain stable and clear.
Ruko F11 Pro Drone
Next up is the Ruko F11 Pro Drone with 4K UHD Camera. This user-friendly machine allows beginners to capture stunning aerial photos without breaking a sweat or their bank account.
Ruko F11 Pro
A standout feature here includes intelligent flight modes like follow me and waypoint flying – making it easier than ever before to get unique angles on properties. The Ruko F11 pro comes equipped with automatic obstacle avoidance technology too – keeping your investment safe from collisions while allowing you more freedom when piloting.
Note:As much as we love these beginner drones, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider the type of real estate you’re photographing and your budget when choosing which model is right for you. Remember, every property is unique – so too should be your approach to capturing it. You may choose to use different drones for different properties.
Investing in a drone like the DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo or Ruko F11 Pro can truly elevate your real estate photography game – literally. But don’t just take our word for it; give them a spin yourself. You can test a drone you buy from the store and return it or even rent one.
Advanced Drone Models for Professional Real Estate Photography
More high end drones are suitable for advanced real estate photographers. Let’s zoom in on two standout drones, the Flightelf Professional Sony Camera Drone and the DJI Mavic Air 3 – Drone Quadcopter UAV With 48MP Camera and 4K Video.
DJI Mavic 3 Pro Drone
If you’re seeking a professional drone packed with advanced features, look no further than the DJI Mavic 3 Pro Drone. This powerhouse combines an impressive 3 Hasselblad camera system with RAW capability giving it a dynamic range of up to 12.8 stops, 28x hybrid zoom capabilities, 43 minute flight time on one battery and a sturdy gimbal to give excellent image quality.
DJI Mavic 3 Pro
It has 8 vision sensors to sense obstacles such as furniture and sculptures inside the house. The included cameras are 24mm for wide shots such as inside a house, 70mm and 166mm.
This drone model also boasts flight modes tailored specifically for estate aerial photography, helping make your listings stand out from the crowd. It even offers wind resistance up to level five. No need to worry about shaky footage anymore.
Beyond this robust functionality lies one more gem – its extended minute flight time allows longer shooting sessions without compromising on power or stability. If you’re after top-notch images that capture every angle of your property listing perfectly, this could be your ideal match.
DJI Air 3 Drone
Moving onto another industry favorite: DJI Air 3. Not only does it have automatic omnidirectional obstacle avoidance ensuring safer flights but also possesses intelligent tracking functions making it easier to follow subjects smoothly during shoots.
DJI Air 3
The smart feature doesn’t end there; it has an amazing camera setup too which includes a massive sensor offering astonishingly sharp 48 MP photography at great resolution sizes. The stabilized gimbal provides stable footage even under windy conditions—just what we need in our fast-paced real estate business.
The DJI Air 3 has 2 cameras including a wide angle 1.7 aperture one and a medium tele 2.8 aperture one, both 48 pixels, a 46 minute flight time on a single battery, 4K 100 fps slow motion for those special shots, and HDR video, all while being very portable and easily fitting in any size backpack.
The Impact of Legal Considerations on Real Estate Drone Photography
Before you take to the skies with your newly acquired drone for real estate photography, it’s important to be aware of potential legal considerations. But wait. Before launching off, it’s crucial to understand some legal aspects that might impact your operations.
Pilot License Requirements
A key aspect is obtaining a drone pilot license. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates this for commercial purposes, including real estate photography. Don’t worry; getting licensed isn’t as daunting as it sounds. It primarily involves passing an initial aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center.
This regulation ensures safety in the airspace by certifying that pilots have adequate knowledge about operating drones responsibly. Moreover, being licensed adds credibility to your business and assures clients of your professionalism.
Navigating No-Fly Zones
No-fly zones can be tricky terrain for drone operators too. These areas restricted by the FAA could include airports or national parks where flying drones pose risks. So always cross-checking with up-to-date maps before flight plans becomes vital.
Flying Altitude Limits
The altitude limit set by FAA rules states drones should not fly above 400 feet in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace without permission – another important consideration when planning shoots.
Privacy Laws and Neighbors’ Rights
Beyond federal regulations, state privacy laws also play their part in shaping how you conduct real estate drone photography operations. Privacy laws differ from state to state, and some can be quite strict about drone usage. To avoid stepping on legal landmines, always get permission from property owners before flying over their space.
In conclusion, while drones are powerful tools for real estate photography, navigating the legal landscape is equally important. Understanding and complying with these regulations not only ensures smooth operations but also enhances your reputation as a responsible and professional real estate photographer.
FAQs
What drone should I get for real estate photography?
The DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo is a solid choice if you’re starting out. For pros, consider the DJI Air 3 Drone.
Is a drone for real estate photography worth it?
Absolutely. Drones give unique aerial perspectives that can enhance property listings and attract more potential buyers.
What type of drone is used in real estate?
Moderate-to-high end drones are typically used in real estate due to their advanced camera systems and flight capabilities. Examples include DJI Mavic Air 2 or similar models.
Conclusion
When it comes to the question, which drone should I get for real estate photography? Remember, your choice hinges on a few key factors.
Beginners might find drones like DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo and Ruko F11 Pro Drones helpful due to their user-friendly interfaces.
If you’re a seasoned pro seeking advanced features, consider models such as DJI Mavic Air 2. They provide excellent image quality with advanced flight modes perfect for professional use. Click the following link to learn in detail the laws of flying drones over private property.
