Unveiling the Investment: Dealership Photography Cost Breakdown

High-quality photography is essential for any business, and car dealerships are no exception. Potential customers are increasingly turning to online platforms to research and browse vehicles before ever setting foot in a showroom. 

This means your online presence, largely driven by captivating visuals, is often the first impression you make. Investing in professional dealership photography is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. But understanding the costs involved can be a bit murky. This post aims to shed light on the factors influencing dealership photography pricing and help you make informed decisions.

Several key factors contribute to the overall cost of dealership photography. Let’s break them down:

• Types of Photography: The specific types of photography you require will significantly impact the cost. Do you need:
  • • Exterior shots: Showcasing the vehicle’s overall look and condition.
    • Interior shots: Highlighting key features and the vehicle’s condition.
    • 360° spins: Providing an immersive, interactive experience for online shoppers.
    • Video walkarounds: Offering a dynamic and engaging presentation of vehicles.
• Number of Vehicles: The volume of vehicles you need photographed directly affects the price. Photographers often offer tiered pricing based on volume, with discounts for larger inventories.
• Location and Travel: Where your dealership is located and whether the photographer needs to travel will influence costs. Travel expenses, including mileage, accommodation (if necessary), and time, may be factored into the final price.
• Photographer’s Experience and Expertise: A seasoned automotive photographer or photography service with a proven track record will likely command higher fees than someone just starting. Their expertise in lighting, composition, and post-processing ensures high-quality images that showcase your vehicles in the best possible light.
• Additional Services: Some photographers offer additional services, such as:
  • • Photo hosting and delivery: Streamlining image management and access.
    • Website integration: Seamlessly incorporating photos into your online inventory.
    • Custom branding: Adding your dealership logo or watermark to images.

• Review Their Work: Carefully examine the photographer’s previous work to assess their style, quality, and expertise in automotive photography. Are their photos centered properly, with the right angle, exposure, etc?  
• Seek Recommendations: Ask other dealerships for recommendations or check online reviews. Has your photography service been in business for some time, or have they helped other dealerships like yours? Do they have great reviews online? (Hint: Redline does!) 
• Request Quotes from Multiple Photographers: Compare pricing and services from several photographers to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Is their pricing designed to save you time and money?  
• Discuss Your Needs and Expectations: Clearly communicate your goals, the types of photography you require, the number of vehicles, and your budget. Consider working with a dealership photography service that can provide a detailed list of photos you will receive.  

Consider Value over Price: While price is important, prioritize quality and expertise. Investing in high-quality photography can significantly impact your online presence and sales.

Once you’ve invested in professional dealership photography, maximize your return by:

• Optimizing Images for the Web: Ensure images are properly sized and formatted for fast loading times and optimal display on various devices. 
• Showcasing Images Across Platforms: Use the photos on your website, social media channels, online listings, and email marketing campaigns. 

Keeping Your Inventory Updated: Regularly update your photos to reflect your current inventory and maintain a fresh online presence. Consider partnering with a service that comes to your dealership regularly, on-time, and reliably.