Drone Photography for Logistics

Photography of logistics real estate is different from other types of buildings. With this guideline, we want to give you all the tools you need to create outstanding images. We will show you all the essential aspects, motifs and rules of real estate photography for creating interior and exterior shots. Guideline as of May 2024

What is different about Logistics Properties? 

In the photography of logistics buildings, the focus is on showcasing the size and function of the structures, distinguishing it from standard drone photography. It is important to photograph the features and functions of the building to accurately represent the characteristics of logistics facilities. To assist you, we have divided the key perspectives into three heights, each accompanied by example photos and videos.

1- Aerial Shots 

To get a good overview of the logistics property, we always require aerial shots that capture the entire site, including all buildings and access roads. It is important that the property is not cropped! This ensures that all functionalities of the site, such as access routes and entrances, can be recognized.

The surroundings of the property are also a significant feature. These photos are used to illustrate the connectivity of the site. Features such as an airport, harbor, train station, railway tracks, a highway, or expressway are essential elements that must be clearly visible in the high-altitude shots.

Foto

To properly photograph the logistics property, you can capture the site from every side and corner (refer to the photo carousel for examples). It is important that all access roads to the building are visible and that the property is not cropped!

Another key feature for the photos is the connecting roads, highways, or other important traffic points in the vicinity!

Video (3-4 Clips)

The video recordings must also provide the viewer with a comprehensive overview of the property. Important subjects include the building with a view of the loading docks, as well as the access roads and transportation connections to the site. Be sure to focus on the facade and loading docks.

TIP: The roof of the property is not relevant, so avoid flying directly over the building (roof). It is better to fly at a low altitude near the facade or to circle around the property or building.

2- Low-Angle Shots 

We have already covered the overall overview of the property and general connectivity with the high-altitude shots. The low-angle shots should now focus on the building and its functions. The ideal height for these shots is often at mid-building height!

Similar to the property shots, we need images that show the entire building from all sides and corners to gain a detailed overview. The most important feature of a logistics property is the loading docks. You can capture these both from the front and the side in photos and videos to ensure they are adequately covered. In addition to the loading docks, a potential buyer or tenant will also want to see how the entrance area is designed, as well as the parking and turning options on the premises.

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To photograph the building correctly, you can capture it from mid-building height from every side and corner. The building should not be cropped if possible!

Additionally, it is important to adequately capture the loading docks! Other key features for the photos include the access roads on the property, parking and turning options, as well as other unique characteristics.

Video (5-6 Clips)

The video recordings must also fully represent the building. Important subjects include the loading docks, access roads on the property, parking and turning options, as well as other unique features.

TIP: Mid-building height with a properly leveled gimbal is your best friend ;) This focuses on the facade, which fully engages the viewer when they watch the video.

3- Detail and Situational Shots 

Through the high-altitude and low-angle shots, we have covered the property, building, and its functions. To enhance the overall photo and video recordings with details and action, we now need detail and situational shots.

Important subjects for this include the details of the property, such as the logos and signs at the building or entrance, as well as distinctive features of the facade. Since loading docks represent the most important motif of a logistics facility, they are particularly well-suited for capturing situational shots, such as a truck approaching and parking.

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For the detail photos, you can capture important subjects such as the logo on the building facade or a sign at the entrance of the logistics park. If there are particularly attractive features on the facade, such as an appealing color combination, a detail shot is also a good motif. If the building has a solar panel system on the roof, you can take a photo at a 90° angle. For detail photos, it’s perfectly fine to crop the building. 

Video (2-3 Clips)

For the video recordings, you can capture subjects such as the logo on the wall or signs and flags on the property. If there is active operation on the site, this provides excellent opportunities for action shots—you can follow moving trucks or film parked trucks at the docks. If the building has a solar panel system on the roof, you can create a short aerial video at a 90° angle. 

The Central Perspective for Drone Photography 

The central perspective is the most important perspective for real estate photography and can be used not only for ground shots! It is crucial to position yourself centrally and directly in front of the building or subject. In this position, the lines of the building appear parallel and converge at a point on the horizon. This emphasizes architectural details and creates a harmonious image.

To illustrate this, we have highlighted these lines in a few example images. The red circle in the center marks the vanishing point. The blue lines indicate the horizontal axis, while the red lines show the visible parallels converging towards the vanishing point.

On-Site Notes 

Here we summarize the most important rules for taking pictures and instructions on site. 

Notes for the shots: 


General instructions on location: 


Here you will find your checklist for download.