Convenience retail store virtual tours, and why they matter.

March 3, 2023 in Blog, Uncategorized

The competition for convenience retail stores is fierce. Between regulations and occasionally sharing property lines with competitors, and an ever changing consumer landscape, things aren’t easy. And options for clear cut advantages are always non-obvious. This is where the beauty of logistics comes in. And when we’re talking about advantages for convenience retail stores and logistics, we must look at virtual tours.

Functionally, virtual tours solve three pain points for stores like Wawa, Royal Farms, and Sheetz. They build and maintain organic community outreach, and those of travelers. Second, they decrease the operational costs of these locations; by facilitating internal coercion, standards, and provide training opportunities. Third, they streamline the workflow of external suppliers and contractors, getting you more cost effective bids and less impact on your day to day operations.

What exactly is a virtual tour?

For a convenience retail store, a virtual tour is a 3D digital twin of the physical location. These tours are made with a camera that kinda looks like a cellphone from 1985. The camera sits on a tripod, and takes about 30 seconds to spin a single rotation. It uses LiDAR technology to scan as it spins. After that, the camera is moved about 6-8 feet away, to another spot, and the process is repeated. It would take no more than 15 minutes to complete a convenience retail store. And they can be completed in absolute off hours (think 2am) to minimize impact on operations. But functionally speaking, nothing in the store needs to change for those 15 minutes. Certainly no need to close the doors.

How do virtual tours foster organic community outreach for convenience retail stores?

If you recognize a cellphone from 1985, then you’ll recognize that the people of today are really into their technology. So meeting people where their attention is, is vital. These immersive tours connect seamlessly to the Google Street View platform. Well, so what? Google invested tens of billions of dollars to strap six figure cameras to the tops of cars and map nearly every road in the entire world.

When you map the inside of your own store, naturally, you will rank higher than your competitor who does not have a virtual tour. Turns out, Google has a preference for businesses who see the value of that platform, and engage with it correctly. This edge could mean millions of dollars in added revenue, merely by playing along with what Google wants. It’s a silly trick, but it’s true and it works. It’s also the foundation of SEO.

Wawa is actually the best in the NE USA, per anyone with a brain.

Breaking brand loyalty, 101.

Wawa, for example, is investing billions of dollars into expanding into new markets- with established names. And despite the clean stores, welcoming signs, and name recognition- people have hardcore loyalty to their morning routines. So what’s the new way to break the ice? Virtual tours. Let curious folks peek inside. Give them a very visual and interactive way to enter your store, to entice them to come and make their first visit. A key step on the journey of loosening brand loyalty.

Brand loyalty is ingrained in human nature, we want to be loyal to the places that nurture us with convenience. But when we intersect the reality of the location of attention of consumers with the absolute must of getting in front of as many new potential daily customers and travelers as possible, virtual tours are the answer.

Happy families enjoy their routines

Reducing operational costs for convenience retail stores with virtual tours.

Virtual tours reduce the operational costs of convenience retail stores. This can be expressed a few different ways. First, in new policy/store feature roll outs. Second, visiting manager/employee orientation. Third, training opportunities. And fourth, diversifying bids for any work that needs to be done on the store.

If there are new and complicated sales features that need to be set up in store, virtual tours can be used to copy the desired final look in test/example stores, and be distributed to store leads. This can ensure consistency in branding and look of stores. It can also be used to set examples of store standards. SOPs, training materials, and other useful information can be embedded right in the tour, for optimal access and ease of transparency.

With a virtual tour, a convenience retail store has a digital twin. This can be used to orientate visiting leaders or associates. New floor plans can be issued to team leads to help familiarize themselves before they step foot in the store, or better yet, before the gas storage tanks in the ground out front have had time to settle.

Virtual tours assist convenience retail stores with employee training. An example of a “messy/poor performing store” can be made up, and new associates can walk around and learn about common issues a store might have day to day, and how to fix them. New materials can be inserted and swapped out with ease.

The fourth and perhaps most important is the diversification of bids an organization can attract. When you have more information, you get more competitive bids, and virtual tours are built for transparency. With the ability to measure between any two points in the store; contractors have every piece of information they need to issue a quote. This means any organization is able to disseminate their RFPs with more transparency, drastically decreasing miscommunication and friction in logistical operations.

Virtual tours streamlining operations for convenience retail stores.

Speaking of fierce competition in convenience retail stores, there is even more for who gets to stock the shelves. Coca Cola, Tasty Cakes, Herrs, and many other well known brands actually stock the shelves with their own products. This is a beneficial system for all, it encourages the distributor to keep fair inventory on the shelves, while also leaving it on them to literally put the product on the shelves.

But virtual tours make this beneficial agreement even better. These tours can be distributed to the vendors, who are then able to distribute them to their drivers and other employees. No more having new contractors wheeling in boxes of merchandise, searching for exactly where it should go. If a convenience retail store is getting a new regional manager for a group of stores, then the virtual tours can be distributed to them, instantly bringing them up to speed on their new territory, servicing you faster.

Logistics is a serious game. And when profit margins are thin, logistics can make or break a company. Virtual tours add a level of transparency that makes it easier for everyone to operate. Easier business environments are profitable business environments.

A legal perspective of virtual tours.

Our virtual tours are court admissible documents. This means that you have an extra layer of documentation of your convenience retail store. From civil unrest to natural disasters- making insurance claims and getting proper documentation; there has never been a more obvious and straightforward answer on the market. Virtual tours can take people into spaces from remote places, and that is simply a benefit that can’t be ignored. The context of it depends on how you deploy it. Luckily, these tours are customizable from the very start.

A conclusion on virtual tours for convenience retail stores.

We covered the three big pain points that are solved by a virtual tour. They build and maintain organic community outreach, and those of travelers. Second, they decrease the operational costs of these locations; by facilitating internal coercion, standards, and provide training opportunities. Third, they streamline the workflow of external suppliers and contractors, getting you more cost effective bids and less impact on your day to day operations.

And with the modern age, having these 3D assets really isn’t a matter of if, but when. And with that it’s important to consider, early adopters of this technology to help with logistics, and the issues above- will simply come out on top.

We’re not building virtual tours because people want to walk into a Wawa or a Sheetz with a VR headset on in their living room. We’re building them to make the locations rank higher on google, and to provide a level of transparency not before possible. Making the lives of the associates, management and owners, just that much better.

Momentum 360 is a Philadelphia headquartered virtual tour frim with a national network of 3D Virtual tour photographers. Momentum 360 has worked with clients like Starbucks, Marriott, and Home Depot, to help fortify and assist in their internal logistics and external marketing, all at once.

What Real Estate Agents Need To Know For Virtual Tours

December 19, 2022 in Photography, Real Estate, Uncategorized

How Virtual Tours Build A Brand

Virtual tours are a valuable tool for real estate agents looking to build their brand and reach a wider audience of potential buyers. By offering virtual tours of properties on their website or social media channels, agents can provide an immersive and interactive experience for potential buyers, save time and effort for both parties, and differentiate themselves from the competition.

It’s vital to stand out, and with a virtual tour, that’s never been easier. We’re going to dive into all the various ways and methods these can be used for literally any listing at any budget.

Interactive Experiences For Your Clients

One of the main benefits of virtual tours is that they provide a more immersive and interactive experience than traditional photos or videos. While photos and videos can give viewers a sense of what a property looks like, virtual tours allow them to actually walk through the space and get a feel for what it would be like to live there. This can be especially useful for people who are trying to visualize themselves in the property and decide whether it is the right fit for them.

People understand when they are being sold too, and they are adverse to it. Providing experiences where people let their guard down is important. It’s basically the only way to get people to be receptive to these messages. People are very conscious of putting out of their mind digital noise. From ads on the radio to the ads on tv. An interactive experience puts peoples mind in a receptive state.

See around you

Virtual Tours Are Cheap And Easy

To create a virtual tour, real estate agents can use 360-degree panoramic images to capture the entire space, including each room and any outdoor areas. These images can then be stitched together and linked to create a seamless tour that allows viewers to navigate through the property at their own pace. Some capture software even includes features like hotspots, which allow agents to highlight specific features or areas of the property and provide additional information or images.

You can get away with making a virtual tour with your cellphone. Sure, It wont be the greatest. The quality might even be downright poor. But you can do it, and with practice, even make it better.

Give The Greatest Gift Of All- Time

In addition to providing a more immersive experience, virtual tours can also save time and effort for both the real estate agent and the potential buyer. Instead of scheduling in-person showings or driving long distances to view a property, buyers can simply take a virtual tour from the comfort of their own home. This can be especially useful for people who are trying to narrow down their options before making a final decision.

People like getting their time back. This is vital to understanding your customer. If you can send them 20 houses to look at with virtual tours, and they don’t have to burn a Saturday to go drive around- your value just went up. Forget about the listings. When you give people time, you give yourself power.

Stand Out By Letting Others Stand In With Virtual Tours

Virtual tours can also be a valuable tool for real estate agents looking to differentiate themselves from the competition. In today’s digital age, it is becoming increasingly common for agents to use online marketing techniques to reach potential buyers. By offering digital marketing as part of their marketing strategy, agents can stand out from other agents who may not be offering this type of content. This can help agents attract more leads and ultimately close more sales.

Set an open house, let it be captured, and make sure everyone is the first in the door, while having virtually zero impact on your clients privacy.

Know where you are

Quality Counts With Virtual Tours

There are a few key considerations to keep in mind when creating virtual tours for a real estate brand. First, it is important to make sure the tours are of high quality. This means using high-resolution images and making sure the tours are smooth and easy to navigate. It is also a good idea to include a variety of images and hotspots to provide a well-rounded view of the property.

Location Matters- Virtual Tours Are No Different

Another important consideration is how to promote your content. One effective way to do this is to include links to the tours on the agent’s website and social media channels. It is also a good idea to include the tours in emails to potential buyers and in listings on real estate websites. By making the tours easily accessible and promoting them through a variety of channels, agents can reach a wider audience of potential buyers.

Use QR Codes To Diversify Distribution

In addition to promoting the tours through online channels, it can also be helpful to include information about the virtual tours in traditional marketing materials such as brochures and flyers. This can help to raise awareness of the tours and make it easier for potential buyers to access them.

Stack For Added Effect, Maximize Your Dollar For Free

Another way to leverage the power of virtual tours is to use them in conjunction with other marketing efforts, such as open houses or in-person showings. By using virtual tours to provide a preview of the property, agents can help to generate interest and encourage more people to attend open houses or viewings.

Having more to to show the clients has never been a bad thing! People trust transparency.

Go above and beyond

Be Everyone’s Friend With Virtual Tours

In addition to the benefits for buyers and agents, virtual tours can also be a valuable tool for property owners looking to sell their home. By offering virtual tours of their property, owners can provide potential buyers with a more comprehensive view of the space, which can help to generate more interest and ultimately lead to a faster sale.

Unlimited Reach With Unlimited Potential- Virtual Tours Provide Solutions

Another advantage of virtual tours is that they can be accessed at any time, from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it easy for potential buyers to view the property on their own schedule, without the need for an in-person showing. This can be especially useful for busy buyers who may not have time to schedule a traditional showing.

Stay Informed

Make Your own Virtual Tour- Or Hire A Pro For Cheap

There are a few different ways that real estate agents can create virtual tours of a property. One option is to use specialized software that allows agents to create their own tours using panoramic images. Another option is to hire a professional photographer or videographer to create a more polished tour. Whichever method is chosen, it is important to ensure that the virtual tour is of high quality and provides a comprehensive view of the property.

A Conclusion On Virtual Tours

In conclusion, virtual tours are an important tool for building a real estate brand because they provide a more immersive and interactive experience for potential buyers, save time and effort for both parties, and help agents stand out from the competition. By using virtual tours as part of their marketing strategy, real estate agents can reach a wider audience and ultimately close more sales. Whether you are a real estate agent, a property owner, or a potential buyer, virtual tours can be a valuable resource for understanding and exploring a property.

Top Ten Reasons Why You Need To Know About Virtual Tours

December 13, 2022 in Blog

Let’s Get Started On Virtual Tours

Virtual tours, it’s an engaging experience for your target audience in a simple, mind blowing box. I’m going to outline some ways you can utilize virtual tours. We’re going to talk about the value of visiting without having to leave your home. We’ll touch base on applicability as a marking tool for literally any business or organization, of any size. We’ll talk about the implications of deploying a virtual tour to increase recruitment-a vital strategy any business looking to survive 2023 must consider.

Virtual Tours For Schools Make Legacies For Tomorrow

A Remote Look With Virtual Tours

Notably, a virtual tour allows potential customers to explore a business’s premises without physically visiting the location. Which can be especially useful for businesses that are not easily accessible or are located in a different part of the country or world. There could be a number of reasons why a customer might want to explore a business’s premises without physically visiting the location. One reason might be that the customer is not able to visit the location in person. Perhaps because it is too far away or because of travel restrictions. Another reason might be that the customer is interested in seeing what the business has to offer but does not want to commit to a physical visit until they have a better sense of what to expect. Some customers might also be interested in exploring the business’s premises as a way of getting a better sense of the layout and atmosphere of the location before deciding whether or not to visit in person.

Virtual Tours Are Easy To Share

Get Stuck Somewhere With An Amazing Virtual Tour

Its known virtual tours can provide an immersive experience that allows customers to get a better sense of the business’s products or services. This can help to increase engagement and interest. Increasing engagement for a business online is a good thing for several reasons. First, higher levels of engagement with a business’s online presence can lead to more traffic to the business’s website or social media pages, which can help to increase the visibility of the business and potentially lead to more customers. Second, engaging with customers online can help to build trust and foster positive relationships with potential and existing customers, which can help to increase loyalty and repeat business. Finally, engaging with customers online can provide valuable insights and feedback that can help a business improve its products, services, and overall customer experience.

Your Virtual Tours Can Be A Showoff

Obviously virtual tours can be a powerful marketing tool that can help a business to stand out from its competitors and attract more customers.
A business wants to stand out from its competition online for several reasons. First, standing out from the competition can help a business to attract more customers and potentially increase its market share. By offering something unique or different from what its competitors are offering, a business can differentiate itself and make itself more attractive to potential customers. Second, standing out from the competition can help a business to build a strong and positive brand image, which can improve customer loyalty and trust. Finally, standing out from the competition can help a business to stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive in an increasingly crowded and competitive market.

Highlight Only The Best With A Virtual Tour

A virtual tour can be a useful way for a business to showcase its facilities, amenities, or features, such as a restaurant’s dining room, a hotel’s swimming pool, or a retail store’s merchandise. First, it allows potential customers to see the space and get a sense of the business’s size and scale. This can help to build trust and credibility with customers, who may be more likely to do business with the company if they feel confident in its size and capabilities. Additionally, showing the facilities online can also be a useful marketing tool, as it can help to attract new customers and showcase the business’s offerings in a visual and engaging way. Finally, showing the facilities online can also be a useful way for the business to communicate its brand and values to potential customers, helping to differentiate the business from its competitors.

Virtual Tours Are Accessible And Inclusive

Use Virtual Tours To Standout In A Crowd

Vitally, virtual tours can help a business to improve its online presence and search engine optimization by providing additional content for its website. A virtual tour can help with SEO in several ways. First, it can provide users with a better overall experience on your website, which can lead to increased engagement and reduced bounce rates. This can help improve your site’s ranking on search engine results pages. Additionally, virtual tours can be optimized with keywords and metadata, which can help search engines understand the content of your website and improve its visibility in search results. Finally, virtual tours can also be shared on social media and other websites, which can help drive traffic to your site and improve its search engine visibility.

Hire The Right People, Step One, Get A Virtual Tour

Occasionally, virtual tours can be a useful tool for businesses that are looking to attract new employees, as it can provide an engaging way to showcase the company’s culture and working environment. A company could use a virtual tour to show potential employees what their workplace looks like and what the company culture is like. The virtual tour could include 360-degree views of the office, the team’s work spaces, and common areas such as the break room or gym. The tour could also highlight the company’s values and mission, and showcase its successes and achievements. The virtual tour could be accessible on the company’s website or through virtual reality technology, and could be a useful tool for attracting new employees who are interested in learning more about the company before applying for a job.

Set To Scale With Virtual Tours

In an emerging way, virtual tours can be a valuable asset for businesses that are looking to expand or open new locations, as it can provide a way for potential customers to familiarize themselves with the business before it opens.A business could use virtual tours to reach a wider audience and expand its customer base. The virtual tour could be used to showcase the company’s products or services, allowing potential customers to explore and learn more about what the business has to offer. The tour could also include information about the company’s values and mission, as well as customer testimonials and reviews. By providing a virtual tour, the business can give potential customers a better sense of what they can expect from the company, which can help to build trust and credibility. The tour can be accessed by anyone with an internet connection, making it a cost-effective way for the business to reach a larger audience and scale itself in size.

Virtual Tours At Home!

Be A Leader With A Virtual Tour

A virtual tour can be a useful tool for businesses that are looking to host events, such as conferences, workshops, or parties, as it can provide a way for potential attendees to explore the event space and plan their visit.Yes, a virtual tour can be a useful tool for businesses that are looking to host events. The virtual tour can be used to showcase the event space and give potential attendees a better idea of what the venue looks like and what it has to offer. The tour can include 360-degree views of the space, as well as information about the layout, capacity, and amenities. This can help attendees to make informed decisions about whether the venue is suitable for their needs and can help the business to attract more event bookings. In addition, the virtual tour can also be used to promote the event itself, providing a preview of what attendees can expect and helping to generate interest and excitement.

Virtual Tours Train For Success

In the coming years, virtual tours can be a useful training tool for businesses that have employees working in multiple locations, as it can provide a consistent and immersive way to familiarize new employees with the company’s premises and processes. Virtual tours can be a useful tool for businesses that are looking to provide training to their employees or customers. The tours can be used to give trainees a better idea of what to expect from the training, as well as to provide a preview of the training materials and content. This can help trainees to feel more prepared and confident before the training begins. In addition, the virtual tour can be used to introduce trainees to the trainer, the training space, and any equipment or resources that will be used during the training. This can help to create a more engaging and interactive learning experience. Virtual tours can also be useful for businesses that are looking to provide remote training, as they can provide a sense of presence and connection even when trainees are not physically present in the same location.

Virtual Tours In The Office

Serving The Customer Is Serving The Business Of Virtual Tours

Notably, Virtual tours can be a useful resource for businesses that are looking to improve their customer service, as it can provide a way for customers to explore the business’s premises and find the information or assistance they need without having to ask for help. A business can use a virtual tour to improve customer service by providing customers with a more convenient and accessible way to learn about the company and its products or services. The virtual tour can include detailed information about the business, such as its history, mission, and values, as well as information about the products or services it offers. This can help customers to make more informed decisions about which products or services are best suited to their needs. In addition, the virtual tour can also be used to provide customer support, by allowing customers to explore the tour and learn more about the company on their own, without having to contact customer service directly.

What’s The Focus?

In conclusion, these ten ways are vital insights as to how, and why, you should be using virtual tours for your business. Virtual tours do not need to be overly complicated for you and your business. It’s always best to partner with a professional who can walk you through the steps needed to develop a smart and effective virtual tour plan for your business.

Matterport Scan Cost

November 14, 2022 in Virtual Tours

Introduction

What is the Matterport Scan Cost? We’re going to review and analyze. We have some important considerations. You have likely seen how catchy these digital twins are. Just like no two houses are exactly the same, how can we tell? What is the Matterport scan cost? To understand the full cost, we will define a few points. For example, we will talk about what exactly Matterport is and isn’t.

We’re also going to talk about other variables. Like the ones on sites that will affect the matterport scan cost. You need to read the outline below on the national average cost. And how to calculate ROI.

Virtual tours, or digital twins, are the best. They can showcase to thousands of people at once. Having your 24/7 open house will bring you more eyes. And more eyes on the internet means more money. Virtual tours are the latest and greatest way to interact with potential customers online- in your very own space. You can always have your best foot forward, with a fully customizable tour. With benefits beyond digital marketing, and into SEO and even recruitment; now is the time to value the weight of this new and cost effective tech.

Matterport Scan Costs help you save other costs!

What Is Matterport?

You might already have an idea of what Matterport is. You might only have an idea what a virtual tour is. Simply put, Matterport is the largest ecosystem for virtual tours outside of Google Street View. Matterport models, sometimes called Digital Twins, are generated with virtual tour cameras. Some of these cameras are built by Matterport themselves.

Others are simply approved for use by Matterport. All in all, there is a very narrow selection of cameras that are approved to make a Matterport model. Generally, only the cameras made by Matterport provide the highest levels of accuracy. This is an important distinction to keep in mind, and one I’ll bring up later.

Matterport is functionally a way to host a 24/7 online open house. Now, open house is a real estate term, and that makes sense, considering Matterport is largely geared to architectural purposes, either surveying or selling.

Matterport Pro2 Camera Is the most effective Matterport Scan Cost

Who Is Matterport For?

There is a misconception that Matterport is for anyone. Matterport is largely for architecture. But how so? Matterport costs are inflated by the fact that it is a 3D platform, not “flat” 360 images. While this comes with a host of benefits, like being able to measure items within a space or generating fairly accurate floor plans.

The added cost? They take longer to capture, longer to render, generally need more expensive cameras, and cost more to host. These features combined with the high hosting cost, heavily gesture to this being a great short term tool- like a construction project.

Matterport isn’t for those looking to strictly market their space. Sure, it’s possible. But people are often sold on the first thing they see, not realizing there are other options- that are cheaper to host (if at all) and offer way more customization.

Why?

Because it’s not 3D- because data is not tied together. In order for 3D data to work, in this context, it needs to be a closed loop. You can’t just “remove things”. With 360 images, we are working with exactly that- images. So we are able to use traditional methods like photoshop to make sure the space is exactly as you want it to be.

Matterport Scan Cost Guide

What can affect Matterport scan cost?

Generally, Matterport pricing varies by region. The national average is $0.10/sq. Ft. However, in some very rural, or very saturated places- costs can be as low as $0.05/sq.ft. Sometimes, you might even pay over $0.10. But don’t let this distract you, a Matterport tour is always worth it. So let’s look at some of the variables that would influence that number.

Like most contract work, working nights or weekends will incur an extra fee. If your space mandates it be captured during this time, you can see anywhere from a flat rate to a percent added. This is an industry normal.

Spaces that are complex to Matterport, like locations with lots of mirrors or uneven levels in the same open space- will take more time. This will again incur a higher cost.

Matterport Scan Costs are predictable

The contents of the space will also matter. While an empty box is cheaper to scan than a house full of furniture, a school full of kids is way more expensive to scan than an empty one.

Location Variables That Affect Scan Cost.

Obviously, there are variables in the literal location of the space that will influence the final cost. Locations that are excessively remote, and require more travel time, will be more expensive to shoot.

Another consideration, sadly, is crime. These Matterport cameras can cost many thousands of dollars. There is growing apprehension about venturing into unsafe areas. Those who do, are simply charging more for their services.

How To Measure ROI On Matterport Tours.

Measuring the ROI of a Matterport tour is fairly simple. Measure the change in impressions vs other marketing methods you’ve been using. And luckily, you can use Google Analytics to help keep a tight eye on things. But how do you maximize your ROI?

Matterport tours should not only be posted to Google Street View; but also to any other place you can. Some really great examples include business cards. You can make free QR codes online- and make a fun and interactive way of getting to your virtual tour.

Embedding in email signatures is another fantastic way to show off a tour. Of course, you can always get an embed code and stitch it directly into your website.

It’s not hard to figure out your Matterport Scan Costs.

Conclusion On Matterport Scan Cost.

We covered a lot of ground in this blog on Matterport scan cost. We talked about what Matterport is, and how it helps people show off their space. About how you can have unlimited viewers, 24/7, to maximize your viewership.

We talked about how Matterport is for anyone. It is an extremely versatile platform, and how imperative it is to businesses who are looking for a future proofed, long term interactive marketing asset that will last them for years.

We review various implications that would increase the cost of a Matterport tour. About how captures outside business hours might affect cost, or overnight. We reviewed location variables, like rural or dangerous locations. And lastly we reviewed how to best measure the ROI on a Matterport tour.

To conclude, basically any business can use a virtual tour. While the matterport ecosystem might not be right for everyone, it is certainly a viable and attractive option for making a digital twin of almost any location.

Find A Photographer Near Me

August 30, 2022 in Event Photography, Google, Photography

Intro

How to find a photographer near me? This is a question that most people will come across at some point in their life. From selling a home to booking a wedding, there are lots of instances or examples of when you’re going to want a professional photographer to capture your space. We’re going to talk about these aspects today.

You need to have an idea upfront. Use Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook for ideas. Make sure you have your thoughts and ideas organized and in a space where they can be easily shared. Any example will help them know what you want. Also, know your budget. You don’t want sticker shock. All from a miscommunication. Lastly, know where and when. Talking to photographers is fine, but you won’t get far without a firm date and time.

When you find a photographer, book right away. You might find work you love and availability. Only to find a week later they are booked. You can avoid this by being decisive. And being prepared will help you do that.

You Get What You Pay For

When you find a photographer, you’ll be happy. One of the biggest considerations is price. A budget will wildly affect the outcome. To start, most have minimums. Sure, you can get “just one picture taken”. But if the minimum is $250, that’s a $250 photo. Make sure you understand that photography is art. Haggling over art is tacky. Photographers have packages that will appeal to all budgets. Make sure you hear the photographer out on what they offer.

There are important considerations. If you are paying $20,000 for a wedding, it does not make sense to hunt for a photographer for $500. These are assets you want for a lifetime, and even to pass down. You only get one wedding day, one chance to sell your house, one communion, one bat mitzvah. The sweet taste of saving a few hundred will not outlast the bitter taste of poor quality.

Photographers have a number of safeguards for everyone. Any reputable, professional photographer will use a contract. Any one that does not? Do not do business with them. Contracts protect all parties. So a lack of contract is a red flag. Likewise, you might come across someone who can do fantastic work, but you might only be willing to buy two hours. Don’t be stuck with the realization that you should have just gone ahead and booked for the full event, ⅔ through it and the photographer has long since packed up and left.

Finding the right photographer is important to everyone.

Cell Phones – Put Them Away

Every year, cell phones seem to get better cameras. And this is largely true. A deeper dive reveals some issues. First, you won’t find a photographer who is professional and uses a cellphone to shoot. This is mainly due to the sheer lack of quality when you look at these pictures on anything larger than a cell phone or computer screen. Likewise, don’t

expect people at the event to get good pictures. They don’t have proper gear. Also, are likely not photographers- so getting even one good shot could be a stretch. Finally, you’re going to want them to relax and enjoy what is going on!

Consider having a no cell phone event. When you find a photographer, you don’t want their pictures to include lots of people with phones in front of their own faces. You’ve hired the professional, leave it up to them!

Find the right photographer near you.

What To Look For Online

When finding a photographer, look for these. First, a robust internet presence. This comes in a few ways. First, the website. Is it clean, modern, and shows the type of photography you like? How is the portfolio, is it well stocked, well presented? Overall, does the business show pride in itself? Next, the broader appeal. The Google My Business listing can hold lots of valuable information. From operating times- to something even more crucial. Online reviews.

Reviews are a solid peek into how others view them. You are going to want to go with someone who has plenty of reviews, and at least a 4.5 star rating. Don’t be afraid to give people with a smaller rating than that a chance. But really pay attention and read up on the one star reviews. Feel free to bring them up. Ask and find out what happened, and what was done to fix it.

Know what you need, and what you want.

Where To Look Online

To find a photographer, you don’t need some magic directory. Google is a fantastic place to start. You’ll be able to locate photographers in your area, and can also sort by reviews and price.

Before you make calls, make sure you have all your prep work handy. Time to start looking at portfolios. Get an idea of who is who. Before you start sending emails and making calls, this is a great step in finding a photographer to help you narrow down what you want.
Search facebook for local photography companies. There can be a wealth of information there. Not only could you find a photographer, you will also run into people organizing and booking similar events. A great way to pick up and exchange ideas.

What Is Photography

This is a little basic, but worth mentioning. The first device that would later develop into a camera entered human history in 1717. Back then, it was impossible to find a photographer. It wasn’t until Around 1800, Thomas Wedgwood came up with the first camera model that would get the nod as the first camera.

Today, photography has gone digital. The first digital camera was invented in 1957. Luckily, technology has come a long way. Now, it is easy to find a photographer.

The core function of a camera is to take in light, and record it. It does this with a series of shaped glass lenses, and finally a light sensitive sensor, at the back of the camera. Powered by a battery, the information is stored on a removable storage device. Today, photos are not developed in a dark room. Rather, they are processed on a computer. Here, a wide variety of variables can be adjusted.

Old school isn’t always the best

Types Of Photographers

There are several types of photographers available. Some can cover different specialties at the same time, and some are specialists. You can always quality your search with the speciality. Instead of searching for “find a photographer”, you might search “find a virtual tour photographer”. Small qualifications and deviations like this can help streamline the process.

You will also encounter a variety of experiences. This will largely be reflected in the price. Longer in the industry will not always mean better. Someone who has been a photographer for 30 year might be very old school, and shoot in a dated style. Likewise, someone with very little experience is inclined to make simple mistakes and miss key moments.

It’s important to have blunt and open conversations. Keeping in mind, you get what you pay for. You can find a photographer that is right for you.

Expectations Day Of The Shoot

Once you finally find a photographer, you’ll want to do your very best to get the results you want out of a shoot. Dress to impress. This is very important. While small and minor things can be edited out or added, 95% of the work should be done before the photographer takes the pictures. If you’re showing your home for sale, make sure it is insanely clean leading up to the appointment. Do not have contractors or cleaning people in the space. If you choose to start cleaning an hour beforehand or something else under your control pops up- its industry standard to be assessed a fee.

When you book a photographer, they will turn down other gigs to make sure they can be at yours. It’s unacceptable for appoints to run long without just compensation. The reverse is true. If the space is captured and it looks terrible- not much can be done about that unless it’s cleaned up and reshot with a new invoice, or deal with a large virtual stage bill.

A good photographer will help you understand expectations and the realities for the shoot you have booked. It’s always better to communicate as openly and honestly as you can.

Expectations For Post Production

Depending on your shoot, the size, and agreed upon terms- post production can vary in time length. When you find a photographer, an early question will be finding that out. Overall, do not expect a photographer to hand over RAW assets. Or, assets that have not been through the post production process. Photos are taken with the intent of editing later on. So at first glance, the pictures might not even look good. Never mind being in a file format you would know what to do with.

Post production can take a few days to a few weeks. The photographer is always the best source for that information. And remember, rush options might be available.

Find someone with the right gear

How to get the most out of your photos

There are several options. It all depends on what kind of shoot you had. For real estate, make sure you get the pictures on line as quickly as possible, and deploy the virtual tour to all relevant spaces. Pictures and virtual tours can be put in email signatures. Virtual tours can even be displayed as QR codes.

Wedding and event photography can take longer. You’re going to want to print out these precious moments. Make sure you save some budget to get prints. When you find a photographer, they can help make sure this process is as smooth and easy as possible.

How To Find A Photographer Conclusion

We covered a lot of ground in this blog. Now you can find a photographer. We talked about how to get ideas for your shoot. What websites and other resources you should use. Next we moved into budget considerations. Reviewing cost benefit analysis. Understanding quality of output. And how to qualify potential matches. We touched on cell phones, and their role in capturing your event. What role is and is not appropriate for them to portray.

We talked about what to look for online, and where to look for it. This is vital in ensuring you have exactly what you need and are looking for. We touched base on different cameras, from the origins of photography to digital cameras of today. We also touched on the types and experiences of photographers, as well as what to expect the day of the shoot, and lastly the days after.

Hopefully, this helps you find a photographer. You can always reach out to companies like Momentum 360. We are a full service virtual tour agency that can help with anything relating to property marketing. Don’t forget, you get what you pay for. So when it comes time to find a photographer, make sure you get the very best you can get.

Massive Virtual Tours, A Guide.

August 18, 2022 in Blog, Content Marketing, Virtual Tours

An Introduction.

Capturing a massive virtual tour can be daunting. Some specialize in large virtual tours. Others might only get one or two a year. Either way, being ready is vital. You need to plan and organize. In this blog we will discuss just that. From must have equipment to post production strategies. We’ll even go over setting expectations. Lastly, we’ll talk about how to roll one big job into the next.

But first, a note on pricing. It is important you charge the right amount for the tour. Or, you get what you pay for. In reality, virtual tours will bring the institution six and seven figures in added revenue. If an institution isn’t ready to make the proper investment, then they simply aren’t ready for this kind of marking. Seeing as this is the trending future, it’s important for photographers to remind clients, they do ultimately get what they pay for.

So, here are the first top TEN considerations you need to make when capturing a large virtual tour.

Time on site.

When capturing large virtual tours, Here’s a question that will come up sooner, rather than later.

“How long is this going to take?”

World Wide Massive Virtual Tour

And it’s a good question. It’s tempting to try to make the offer more attractive by citing a lower number. Let’s do the math. Depending on shooting conditions, one can capture 1,500-2,000sq ft/hour when using Matterport. If you are structuring your tour with 360 panos in a software like 3Dvista, then the space you can cover largely depends on the look and feel of the desired product.

In the end this is an important consideration. A large virtual tour is generally considered anything over 100,000 sq ft. So 100,000 divided by, at best, 2,000 equals 50, or 50 hours. 50 hours can be done in a week. Five, ten hour days. But this takes generous considerations. Ideal shooting conditions- and no breaks.

From an operations standpoint, that is a large consideration. Unless the space can be closed, people will be on the tour. Especially with Matterport, where post production options are wildly expensive or not possible.

For fast capturing and a lot more customization, lean towards 360 virtual tours and not 3D. Momentum has captured spaces as large as 1.1 Million interior Square Feet in 47 hours using 360 cameras and drones. This was using a single person team.

If time on site is a deal breaker, then consider subcontracting to save the deal. It’s better to have help than to be stuck with a frustrated customer.

Shooting methods and options.

Snag a massive virtual tour for your portfolio!

Large virtual tours take time, as mentioned. But this can be largely controlled by the SOP used for the job. The client needs will dictate a lot here. Construction progress might demand 3D. A university might be squarely focused on marketing. HDR is the way to go there.

There are several assets you can use for large virtual tours. Drone 360 panoramas can be a real winner. Not only do they help navigate, but it is an impressive and unique way to view all of a space. Drone can be helpful when connecting buildings either way. 360 video is another thought. Being able to show the atmosphere of a space as it is, is the closest thing we have to taking someone to a space. Adding a few features like this into a tour can make it the crown jewel of the marketing department.

Massive Virtual Tour Equipment.

There is a gauntlet of options. You can spend between $300 and $20,000. You’re going to get a lot of opinions on 360 cameras. The Ricoh Theta Z1 is a fantastic option. At only $1,100, it’s a great choice. And, the price point is where it is ideal (demanded) that you carry a spare while on site.

Make sure you have the right gear!

Regarding 3D cameras, Matterport is its own. You can get used Pro2 for $2,000 on up. Just make sure you send it to Matterfix.io for a tune up. We’re not endorsed, they’re literally the only operators in that space. And they have a UK location. In all transparency we have done business with them before, so at the very least I can say their service is great.

Virtual Tour Location Preparation.

Momentum 360 has a shoot prep guide. This helps set expectations. But for capturing large virtual tours, you are going to have added considerations. You need to think of some broader issues.

Getting a facility with hundreds of employees on the same page is hard. You need to strategize. Email blasts from HR leading up help. Also, posting signs in several spots. Letting people know they may need to clear the area, work from home, or suspend operations.

Scheduling goes a long way. Calculate how quickly you can work. Get the sizes of various spaces. Come up with a rough outline of what to expect. You can help keep things much more fluid.

Don’t forget other considerations. Making sure areas are tidy and clean. If places need to be staged, that is it done. Have groundskeeping or maintenance do spot fixes the day before. When capturing massive virtual tours, it’s a team effort. And not just you and the marketing department. Make sure to make yourself available for questions.

Point of contact orientation.

When capturing massive virtual tours, it’s important to have an orientation. Not with the entire facility, but with one or two key people with enough seniority to get things done in a reasonable manner. This can often best be done by shooting a prerecorded video, and distributing so people can watch when it works for them. Be available for emails and follow ups.

Learning about virtual tours

Often, a virtual/face to fact kick off meeting two to three weeks in advance is a good idea. You’ll want to go over exact details regarding execution. What can and cannot be fixed after the image has been captured. Now is a good time to review cancelation policies, and the added cost of needing to come back if an area needs to be recaptured for whatever reason.

With massive virtual tours, there will be errors. So it’s important to pass that off to your client to set expectations. We’re going to cover expectations more, next.

Expectations.

Setting expectations is important. There are so many moving pieces when making a massive virtual tour. You need to help your client understand the process. This can cover many areas. Like production, post production, and utilization.

Let the customer know that over hundreds or thousands of panos, there are going to be a few people on the tour- it is simply inevitable. When capturing a massive virtual tour, it’s a guarantee. Helping the customer understand this in advance will help. Also, reiterate murphy’s law. Anything that can go wrong, will. So it’s important to cover certain areas. What happens if the gear breaks down? Or there are storms? What about last minute work being done? And of people with the right keys not being where they need to be at the right time?

Massive virtual tours are a task all their own. It’s important you set the same distinction.

Massive Post Production Expectations.

Each editing style has its own timeline. Make sure you understand your workflow. Massive virtual tours take massive amounts of time to complete. Setting these expectations in advance with your client will go a long way in not only building trust, but making sure there is a good experience all around.

When it comes to utilization of massive virtual tours, here are some things to keep in mind. First, location. Get the virtual tour everywhere you can. From Google street view to your own home page. Don’t forget, QR codes can be a very easy way to distribute the tour on print or physical media.

Virtual Tour Execution.

It’s time. Appointment set, departments briefed. Your first massive virtual tour is before you. Let’s talk about the few steps before and the few steps that follow from this point. First off, you’re going to need proper sleep. Not just the night before, but try to get several good nights of sleep in a row, before your multi-day venture.

Don’t forget to check your gear. Put it through its paces, after updating firmware. Make sure you understand any new features (or bugs) before you get into the field. Massive virtual tours have little room for error. Make sure all maintenance has been completed, and all other auxiliary considerations are up to speed.

To keep timelines down, you might need to keep breaks down to a minimum. Make sure you have a strategy to generate or store power for use throughout the day. It’s also important, finally, to stay fueled and hydrated. It can be tempting to do things in a single shot. But making sure you get a chance to eat and drink water is very important.
Lastly, speak to your doctor. Some massive virtual tours can require tens or hundreds of hours on site. This is a massive physical undertaking for some. Make sure you have been cleared to engage in this level of physical activity. It seems simple, but 50 hours in, you’re going to wish you considered it.

Massive File Management.

It’s hard to over emphasize this. When shooting massive virtual tours, you need a file management plan. When the raw assets number in the thousands, you need to make sure you are staying on top of things. A really easy way to double your post production time is to not take this seriously.

File management comes in handy in two ways. First, it keeps you organized. Which is highly important when capturing a massive virtual tour. Secondly, it allows for spot quality control. You want to be able to catch onto things like file corruption way too early, so you can circle back with minimal interruption.

Conclusion.

Don’t let massive virtual tours scare you. If you’re in the industry long enough, you’ll get a chance to quote one. Don’t forget, don’t undersell the industry. Remember that you are bringing massive value to the table for the customer. Charge accordingly. Massive virtual tours come with a massive price tag, and there is no breakdown for size. That is a backwards model. Make sure you have a clear understanding of your time on site. Consider all the various shooting methods and options available to you. Make sure you have the right equipment, and enough of it as back up if needed. Make sure the location has been prepped. All practical precautions have been taken.

Make sure the onsite contacts have been briefed. They are key to ensuring the overall success. Make sure expectations have been managed, and are crystal clear. Have a defined understanding of your execution. From first step to last. And lastly, a comprehensive file management plan.

In the end, massive virtual tours are exciting, profitable, and doable! So don’t be intimidated and remember, charge what it’s worth.

Posts By: jonmacknight