5 Easy Tips to Stage Your Outdoor Spaces

With summer come pool days, barbecues, and afternoon picnics. This is also the best time of year to highlight outdoor spaces in your listing photos. But how do you make these areas more enticing to apartment shoppers? Here are some simple staging suggestions.

Don’t forget the greenery, especially on the roof

A green roof is terrific, and not only because it creates a garden in the sky. A green roof provides shade, reduces the air and roof surface temperatures, and saves on energy costs. If you need some inspiration, check out this rooftop deck at LL Hawkins in Portland, Oregon.

Make your pool area sparkle

Try photographing the pool during different times of the day to determine when it looks its best. Consider taking a few photos at dusk since the pool lights against the evening sky will look impressive. As you try different times of day, also try different angles. You might be surprised at how great the pool looks if you sit on the edge and take the shot, or if you use a drone to capture an overhead view. If you want your images to be sharper, try using a tripod.

Firepits and sunsets are your friends

While your outdoor fireplace is a wonderful amenity, it’s most compelling in the evening, when it’s lit. In the middle of the afternoon, it just looks a bit forlorn. Try to photograph it when residents are most likely to use it, right around dusk, and make sure it’s lit. Here’s a great example from Charlotte at the Residence at SouthPark.

The dog park needs some dogs

Pet-friendly amenities are terrific, but make sure renters viewing your photos know what they’re looking at. If they see a fenced parcel of grass, they might not realize it’s a dog park. It just looks like an empty yard without any landscaping. Try photographing the dog park when it’s in use. Not only will it help define the space, but including residents’ pooches in your photos will give you some terrific action shots (not to mention the “aww” factor).

Consider your landscaping

A well-tended lawn and vibrant flowerbeds create eye-catching photos, so make sure your outdoor grilling areas, walkways, and office area look their best.

When it comes to photographing outdoor spaces, lighting is key. Take advantage of the hour before sunset, when the light is most flattering and the shadows are softer. Experiment with different angles and try to get creative with the shots you take. A few simple changes can make a huge difference in how your outdoor areas are perceived by potential residents.

With some careful planning, your outdoor spaces will truly shine in your listing photos.