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Preparing your property listing for a photoshoot is undeniably one of the most crucial steps in showcasing your property to its fullest potential. This preparation can significantly impact the sales price and reduce the time your property spends on the market. These guidelines are equally applicable to open houses and offer valuable tips for homeowners to maintain their property for showings.
Before your scheduled photography session or open house, investing time in comprehensive property preparation is essential. Presenting your home in its optimal condition is paramount, as a well-maintained property enhances the likelihood of securing the highest possible sale price.

Quick view of our PREPARATION CHECKLIST

Preparing your property listing for a photoshoot is undeniably one of the most crucial steps in showcasing your property to its fullest potential. This preparation can significantly impact the sales price and reduce the time your property spends on the market. These guidelines are equally applicable to open houses and offer valuable tips for homeowners to maintain their property for showings.
 

Before your scheduled photography session or open house, investing time in comprehensive property preparation is essential. Presenting your home in its optimal condition is paramount, as a well-maintained property enhances the likelihood of securing the highest possible sale price.

Download now our FREE PREPARATION CHECKLIST

Below is a PDF document for prepping for a shoot. Feel free to download it and share it with your client to remind them of what is necessary to show their property in the best light!

  • What does ‘’ME VALIN’’ stands for?
    The ’M’’ letter stands for Munique and the ‘’E’’ letter is for Eric, the owners of the ME VALIN.
  • Why should I choose ME VALIN over other photographers?
    At ME VALIN we stand out from other photographers by offering a unique blend of creativity, professionalism, and personalized service. We are passionate about capturing your most memorable moments with a distinctive artistic touch. We believe that every client is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that your photos reflect your personality and style. Additionally, we use the latest photography equipment and techniques to deliver high-quality images that you'll cherish for a lifetime. Choose ME VALIN for a photography experience that is not just professional but also personable and unforgettable!
  • What services do you offer?
    We specialize in Real Estate Photography including but not limited to Residential and Commercial. The services we provide: HD Photography, Virtual Staging, 2D Floor Planing, 3D Floor Plan, 3D Walkthrough, Amenities (Community Pictures, for example: community pool, basketball/tennis courts, clubhouse, etc), Social Media Video (Highlights, Reels and Walkthrough). Aside from professional images and excellent customer service, we offer additional services that complement our Packages, check it out our packages prices!
  • How much does a residential shoot cost?
    Prices will vary based on what services you are looking for. All basic residential photo packages with a 2D floor plan start at $249.
  • How much does a commercial shoot cost?
    Commercial Shoots usually starts at $300. Often we provide a quote that will meet the scope of your project and budget. Please give us a call or text at (571) 202-0709 to discuss your next Commercial Project with ME VALIN or click here to access quote page right now.
  • What type of payments do you accept?
    We accept Credit Card, PayPal or Zelle. Our Photographers do not take payment at the shoot. We require a deposit of 50% of entire service amount upon signing of the contract. The ME VALIN team will provide proofs/samples images/videos to the customer to review for final purchase of pictures. After final approval the customer is require to pay the remaining balance. For convenience purposes, customer can make the payments through ME Valin's Official website; mevalin.com or mevalinllc.com, Invoice sent by e-mail or Providing Credit Card Information over the phone. For any questions about payments, billing, or prices, please call us at (571) 202-0709.
  • How do I order a shoot?
    You can order a shoot by: 1) Clicking the Order A Shoot Button or the Order tab at the top of this website and fill out an order form for your location 2) Directly via phone/text at (571) 202 - 0709 3) Our contact page : https://www.mevalin.com/contact 4) Directly e-mail us: m.valin@mevalin.com
  • Are there specific steps to get my property ready for a shoot?
    Yes. The home should be organized and cleaned to the highest level. By following the ME VALIN pre appointment home preparation guidelines not only help make your images amazing, but also get the property ready for showing. These guidelines are available on our Resource page or download for Free:
  • What if I can’t be there at the time of the shoot?
    It's ok if you can't be at the shoot. Our photographers are trustworthy and can always be left to hit the lights and lock up. We are often given codes or key locations to go in and shoot the homes when the realtor/home owner is unavailable. However, we prefer to have someone at the location initially to ensure that the house is ready to go, with all lights on. Please be aware that our photographers does not require to have any subscription to lockbox. We charge a minimum of a $50 fee trip in case we need to make a arrangements to pick up and drop off a key.
  • How long does it take to get an appointment on the books?
    ME VALIN works on a first come first serve basis and attempts to schedule appointments in similar areas of the city. Scheduling will vary based on location, weather, and the time of year. A reasonable time frame is 2-5 days. Expect at least a week lead-time during the busiest real estate market and vacation rental seasons.
  • What if I have to cancel my appointment at the last minute?
    If the cancellation or change is made within 48 hours or same day before the scheduled session of the shooting then the Deposit is entirety, shall be non-refundable and forfeited to the Photographer. The reason for this is that with less than 48 hours notice, it is unlikely that we will be able to react in time to fill that appointment slot, therefore we lose out on revenue that we cannot recover for that day.
  • Are you available to shoot on the weekends?
    100% Yes! We have more availability on the weekends to shoot a property and please click here to check out our booking page to see when we can schedule your next shoot!
  • How long does the shoot take from start to finish?
    If the home is ready to go the average home will take roughly 60 minutes to an hour and half. We plan the time for your shoot based off of the time it takes to shoot that size home plus a little extra just in case we run into some staging challenges.
  • What if the weather is not cooperating?
    It's important to at least get the interior shots done in bad weather. This way the house can still be listed. We will return to take the exterior images when we can schedule it back in. This doesn't happen often and because we are experts at sky replacements the property will still look amazing. On a rainy/cloudy day it is actually better for interior shooting and provides less contrasting shadows on exteriors.
  • What kind of angles do you shoot?
    We have a very standard way of shooting to make the rooms look as big as they possibly can. However, some shots call for different angles depending on the room or specific areas we may be trying to avoid. If you have any specific angles or areas that you would like featured, please let our photographers know at the time of the shoot or before the shooting if possible.
  • What if I have specific details that I want the photographer to cover?
    Detail shots outside our normal shots should be discussed in advance when scheduling the shoot. Please let us know if you have specific angles or details that you would like covered.
  • What if I want to get community pool, clubhouse, and other amenities?
    You can select an add-on service for a community shoot item when you are viewing your shopping cart, we do charge an extra fee for the service. This needs to be noted when scheduling so that additional time can be slotted for the photographer. Please click here to check out our add-ons services.
  • What is the turnaround time for image delivery at ME VALIN?
    At ME VALIN, we are committed to providing prompt and efficient service. Our standard turnaround policy is 48 hours to ensure we can address any potential adjustments or issues that may arise. However, in most cases, we strive to deliver images by the end of the next day. This policy allows us to maintain a high level of service quality while also accommodating any unforeseen circumstances. Rest assured, our goal is always to meet or exceed your expectations with timely delivery.
  • How will I get my images?
    You will receive an e-mail with a link to the client panel/portal, where you can download your images. If you do not receive an e-mail from us by the end of the next day, please check your spam box or give us a call at 571-202-0709.
  • What size images do you deliver?
    We deliver 3 different sized JPEG images for you to use for your various marketing media. Small 640x480 pixels at 72dpi Large 1500x1000 pixels at 72dpi Print Quality 300dpi (Print Quality dimensions may vary by photograph, but are generally 4200 pixels on the long side.) If you need an Image size or format outside of our normal, just let us know and we would be happy to accommodate.
  • Can you photoshop things out of images?
    This is a tricky question. Legally we can not photoshop anything that would classify as misrepresenting the home. At the shoot, point out your concerns and our photographers will let you know if it can be fixed in Photoshop. ME VALIN editors can work magic on 95% of the things we are asked to Photoshop. If a photographer does not believe the area in question can be easily Photoshopped, he or she may suggest other angles or ways of avoiding it. Please keep in mind that we do charge an ''object removal'' fee of $25 per photo and if needed a ''clear room'' fee of $75 per photo.
  • What sky replacement services does ME VALIN offer and are there any associated costs?
    At My Site 2, we specialize in digitally replacing the original sky in your images to enhance the mood, correct exposure, or create a more visually appealing composition. We offer complimentary sky replacement services for images affected by inclement weather or cloudy skies. However, if you are interested in a more specialized effect such as Virtual Twilight or Day to Dusk, please note that these services do incur a fee. Our goal is to ensure that your images look their best while providing clear and fair options for enhancements. For more information please access our book now page.
  • What services do you offer for Real Estate?
    We offer a range of real estate photography services, including interior and exterior photography, Social media video (such as Highlights, Reels and Walkthrough Videos), 2D Floor Plan and 3D Floor Plan, 3D Video Walkthrough, and property staging photography.
  • What is Virtual Staging in real estate photography?
    Virtual Staging is the process of digitally enhancing and furnishing a property to showcase its potential to buyers. It involves adding furniture, decor, and other elements to photos of empty spaces, giving a realistic representation of how the property could look.
  • What is the difference between a 2D Floor Plan and a 3D Floor Plan, and how can ME VALIN help with these services?
    At ME VALIN, we specialize in creating both 2D and 3D Floor Plans to assist our clients in visualizing and planning their properties effectively. A 2D Floor Plan is a straightforward, detailed layout of a property's structure drawn in two dimensions. It highlights room dimensions, layouts, and the general arrangement of spaces. This type of floor plan is extremely useful for showing the architectural layout, planning furniture placements, and understanding the spatial relationships within the property. On the other hand, a 3D Floor Plan elevates this representation by providing a three-dimensional visualization of the space. With a 3D Floor Plan, potential buyers can gain a more realistic understanding of the property's layout, scale, and flow. It allows clients to experience the property more vividly, which can be particularly useful in marketing and selling. At ME VALIN, we leverage advanced tools and expertise to create accurate and visually appealing 2D and 3D Floor Plans. Our team ensures that each plan is tailored to meet your specific needs, helping you to visualize your dream home or commercial space with clarity and confidence. Whether you're planning a renovation, selling a property, or simply exploring design options, our comprehensive floor plan services are designed to support your goals every step of the way.
  • Does ME VALIN currently offer drone services for aerial photography or other purposes?
    We at My Site 2 are thrilled about your interest in our drone services! While we are not offering drone services at the moment, we're actively working on obtaining our license. We appreciate your patience and can't wait to provide the best aerial photography and other drone-related services to our amazing clients very soon. Stay tuned for updates, and thank you for your enthusiasm and support!
  • What should I do if I am not satisfied with my images from ME VALIN?
    Hopefully that never happens, but if you are not 100% satisfied with your images from ME VALIN, please contact us as soon as you notice and give us a chance to make it right. We are committed to ensuring your complete satisfaction and will make corrections or reshoot at no charge for mistakes made by a photographer, or for any features requested by the realtor that were missed. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we're here to provide the best possible service for all your imaging needs.
  • Copyright - What kind of copyright release comes with my package?
    By paying the invoice associated with the photo shoot, the homeowner or Listing Agent is granted a limited perpetual right to use, publish, and exhibit, on the internet and in other publications, any digital images or photographs of the Hiring Party taken at the Event and details of the Event, solely to promote the Photographer's business. Please read our Photographer’s Rights policy: Ownership Rights. The Photographer will be the sole and exclusive owner of the Photographs and all rights with respect to those Photographs (collectively, "Rights"), including all rights in and to the Photographs created by the Photographer, in all media and all forms of exploitation whether now known or hereafter devised, including all allied and subsidiary rights, such as merchandising rights, noninteractive and interactive electronic publication rights, multimedia rights, publication rights including for publicity and advertising purposes. (2) Creative Rights. The Photographer may edit the Photographs in its discretion, and may not offer all images shot to the Hiring Party. The Photographer reserves the right to edit and release only those Photographs deemed creditable as professional in quality and within the Photographer's artistic standards. (3) License. The Photographer grants the Hiring Party a nonexclusive, nontransferable license with limited right to reproduce, publicy display, and distribute the photos only for promotional and advertising purposes directly related to the sale of the Property. (a) Photos used for any purpose not directly related to the sale of the Property must be with the express permission of Photographer and the payment of additional fees, unless otherwise agreed to in writing. (4) Copyright. The Photographer grants the Hiring Party the photos to be uploaded to any MLS listing service solely for promotion or advertising of the Property. (a) However, regardless of any terms and conditions of the MLS, at no time does this Agreement provide Hiring Party with the right to transfer copyright, or any other exclusive rights as provided by the Copyright Act 17 U.S.C § 106. (b) Photos may contain copyright management information (CMI) at the discretion of the Photographer in the form of either 1) a copyright notice © and/or 2) other copyright and ownership information embedded in the metadata or elsewhere, unless otherwise agreed to by the Parties. (b) Removing and/or altering such information is prohibited and constitutes violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and Hiring Party will be responsible to the Photographer for any penalties and awards available under the statute. Rights are assigned to the Hiring Party immediately upon delivery of the samples Photos and/or final photos/videos.
  • Copyright - What is considered Copyright Infringement?
    The use of images for any other purpose than the marketing/sale of a property as set forth within the copyright provided by ME VALIN to the purchaser of the invoice. Copyright Infringement is a very serious matter (Violation of this copyright could result in up to $10,000 in fines per image). If you have other questions about copyrights, please do not hesitate to call us. Examples of common Copyright Infringement: When a homeowner uses an agent's images to market their home as an ARIBNB/VRBO. When images are given by the purchaser/homeowner to the plumber, to represent some of their work. When a developer/contractor uses the images on their site without purchasing an extended multi copyright release.
  • Cancellation Policy and Refund Policy
    (1) Cancellation Policy. After the signing of this Contract, changes or cancellation by the Hiring Party must be made at least 48 hours before the scheduled session to receive a full refund of the deposit. (a) If the cancellation or change is made within 48 hours or same day before the scheduled session of the Event by the Hiring Party then the Deposit made by the Hiring Party, in its entirety, shall be non-refundable and forfeited to the Photographer. (b) If the cancellation is initiated by the Photographer, all monies paid to the Photographer from the Hiring Party shall be fully refunded. A refund shall be paid out within 30 calendar days from the date of cancellation. (3) Refund. The Hiring Party is entitled to one round of revisions at no additional cost. The Photographer will address any issues or changes requested within this period promptly. A committed to ensure the Hiring Party is completely satisfied with the Photographer's services, ME Valin's refund policy offers three (3) options to the Hiring Party, as follow: (a) Re-editing; If the Hiring Party identifies any issues with the quality or accuracy of the images/videos within 1 day of sample delivery, the Photographer agrees to make reasonable corrections or re-edits at no additional cost to the Hiring Party. Requests for re-edits must be submitted in writing within this timeframe. (b) Reshoot; In the event that the images/videos do not meet the agreed-upon specifications and cannot be corrected through re-editing, the Photographer will provide a re-shoot at no additional cost to the Hiring Party. This is contingent upon the original issue being due to the Photographer's error and not due to conditions outside the Photographer's control, such as weather, property readiness, or unforeseen circumstances at the Property. or (c) Refund; If the Hiring Party remains unsatisfied after additional efforts to rectify the issue, a full refund of the service fee paid will be provided. This refund effectively releases both parties from any further obligation under this agreement. (4) Refund Process. If the Hiring Party still not satisfied after the initial round of revisions The Hiring Party must submit a written request for a refund within 1 day after the final revisions or reshoot. ME Valin will assess the request and communicate the decision within 2 business days. If approved, the refund will be processed and issued within 5 business days of approval. A refund shall be paid out within 30 calendar days from the date of refund. The Hiring Party shall remove and destroy any format of photography received from the Photographer. (5) Refund Limitations. (a) Dissatisfaction arising from subjective preferences that were not clearly communicated before the initial service delivery is not covered by this refund policy. (b) Delays caused by the Hiring Party or additional requests outside of the original agreement are not covered. (6) Refund Exclusions. The warranty does not cover dissatisfaction due to subjective preferences, changes to the Property after the photo session, or any other factors not related to the quality or accuracy of the Photographer's work. (7) Additional Revisions. If further revisions are requested beyond the first round, these may be subject to additional fees, which will be communicated to the Hiring Party prior to proceeding.
  • What is our Pet Securement Policy and Equipment/Pet-Related damages policy?
    PET SECUREMENT To ensure a safe and efficient photography session, ME VALIN requires that all pets on the property be secured during the appointment. This clause outlines the responsibilities of the Hiring Party has regarding the management of pets to prevent disruptions and potential hazards. (1) Pet Securement. All pets must be secured in a location away from the areas to be photographed. This can include crates, separate rooms, or outdoor areas not in use for the photography session. (2) Pets should be secured for the duration of the photography appointment to prevent interference with the equipment and to avoid any potential accidents or injuries. (3) Responsibility for Pets. The Hiring Party is responsible for ensuring that all pets are secured before the photographer arrives and remain secured throughout the session. (4) The Hiring Party must inform the Photographer of the presence of any pets and the measures taken to secure them. Failure to inform the Photographer of pets on the property may result in additional charges or the refusal of service upon arrival. (5) Photographer’s Right to Refuse Service. (a) If pets are not secured upon the photographer’s arrival, the photographer has the right to request that the Client secure the pets before proceeding with the session. (b) At any point during the session, a pet becomes unsecured and poses a risk to the photographer's safety, the photographer has the right to immediately terminate the session. (6) The safety and security of our Photographers are of utmost importance. (a) The Hiring Party will be responsible for any fees incurred due to the early termination of the session, including but not limited to rescheduling fees or partial session charges. (b) If the Hiring Party is unable or unwilling to secure the pets, the Photographer reserves the right to refuse service. In such a case, The Hiring Party agrees to pay a Rescheduling Fee of $100 to cover the Photographer's time. EQUIPMENT AND PET-RELATED DAMAGES. (1) The Photographer and the Hiring Party agree to the following: (a) Damage to Equipment. The Hiring Party will be responsible for any damage or loss to the Photographer's equipment due to misuss or theft by the Hiring Party or any guest of the Hiring Party. (2) The Hiring Party agrees that they will be held financially responsible for any damage to the Photographer's equipment caused by their pet(s) during the photo session as described section ''Pet-Related Damages''. (a) Pet Damage Liability. The Hiring Party agrees that they will be held financially responsible for any damage to the Photographer's equipment caused by their pet(s) during the photo session. (b) The Photographer are not responsible for any injuries or damages caused by pets during the photography session. (c) The Hiring Party agrees to indemnify and hold ME VALIN harmless from any claims or damages arising from pets being unsecured during the session. (d) Compensation for Damages. In the event that the Photographer's equipment is damaged by the Hiring Party's pet(s), the Hiring Party shall compensate the Photographer for the full cost of repair or replacement of the damaged equipment. (e) Assessment of Damages. The Photographer will provide an itemized list of the damaged equipment and the associated costs for repair or replacement. The Hiring Party agrees to pay these costs within 30 days of receiving the itemized list. (f) Insurance Claims. If applicable, the Hiring Party may file a claim with their pet insurance or any other relevant insurance provider. However, the responsibility for covering the costs remains with the Hiring Party and is not contingent upon the outcome of any insurance claim. (g) Notification of Incident. The Photographer must notify the Hiring Party of any damage to equipment caused by the pet(s) as soon as reasonably possible, but no later than 48 hours after the incident. (h) Dispute Resolution. In case of any dispute regarding the damage and compensation, both parties agree to engage in good faith negotiations to resolve the matter amicably. If a resolution cannot be reached, the matter will be subject to mediation or arbitration as mutually agreed upon by both parties.
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