Listing your Whittier brick home soon? Strong photos can highlight the charm of brick, the tree-lined streets, and the neighborhood’s historic character. You want images that feel warm and clear, not harsh or cluttered. This local checklist gives you timing tips, prep steps, and a shot list tailored to Whittier. Let’s dive in.
Why Whittier brick homes stand out
Whittier is one of Denver’s older neighborhoods, known for Victorian, Denver Square, Craftsman, and other classic styles. Many homes feature original details like arched openings, masonry cornices, and brick patterns that buyers love. For local context and events, you can explore the Whittier Neighborhood Association.
Parts of Whittier overlap with historic areas such as the San Rafael historic district, where older brick and period features are common. You can learn more about the area’s history through the Denver Public Library’s neighborhood guide. If your home is designated or in a historic district, exterior changes may require review under the city’s Landmark Preservation guidelines. That context can shape what you repair or clean before photos.
Plan your shoot around light and seasons
Denver’s seasons swing from snowy winters to sunny summers, with big day-night temperature changes. These shifts affect light, foliage, and even brick and mortar. Check local climate normals when scheduling and aim for soft light that flatters brick. You can review typical patterns from the National Weather Service’s climate normals.
- Aim for golden hour or twilight. Low-angle light adds warmth and reduces harsh shadows on brick, a best practice echoed in real estate photography tips.
- Match timing to orientation. East-facing facades favor morning, west-facing work better late day. For more guidance on timing by orientation, see this overview on choosing time of day.
- Consider Whittier’s narrow lots and mature trees. Shade patterns change by season and can hide details. Ask your photographer to check sun angles and plan for soft, even light.
Inspect and prep brick before photos
Older brick photographs beautifully when clean and intact. It also shows flaws clearly. A quick visual check helps you decide what to address before the shoot.
- Look for efflorescence, spalling, or deteriorated mortar. These often show up in high-resolution images. Efflorescence is usually cosmetic, but heavy or localized deposits can suggest moisture movement. For background on these conditions, see this technical note from the Masonry & Hardscapes Association on efflorescence and masonry care.
- Clean gently. Use a soft broom or low-pressure rinse after confirming the brick and mortar are sound. For older masonry, avoid high-pressure washing unless a pro signs off, since it can damage mortar and brick faces. Review these do’s and don’ts for pressure washing brick safely.
- Coordinate repairs. If you must repoint or patch, try to match color and texture. If major repairs are needed, consider addressing them before photos or clearly documenting them for buyers.
- Check designation status. If the property is a local landmark or sits in a historic district, confirm any exterior work aligns with Denver’s Landmark Preservation guidelines.
Pre-shoot questions to answer
- Which direction does the front facade face?
- Is the home locally designated or in a historic district?
- Any recent masonry repairs, warranties, or known moisture issues?
- Are there parking rules or street sweeping that might affect curb shots?
Exterior shots to capture
- Primary front elevation, straight-on and a 3/4 angle to show depth.
- Wider street-to-house context with sidewalk and trees for a sense of place.
- Entry and porch details, including door, hardware, steps, and lighting.
- Close-ups of brick patterns, lintels, keystones, cornices, and chimney details.
- Roofline, gutters, and chimney to show condition and composition.
- Side elevations, including driveway or alley access and any addition transitions.
- Backyard, patio, and hardscape to show outdoor living.
- Twilight exterior if lighting and windows create an inviting glow.
If you plan to disclose condition items, take clear detail shots of spalling, mortar gaps, or noticeable efflorescence to reduce surprises for buyers.
Interior shots to include
- Living room, kitchen, dining, primary bedroom, bathrooms, basement, and laundry.
- Any exposed interior brick, fireplace surrounds, arched openings, or built-ins.
- Detail shots of restored brick or hearths to highlight texture and character.
Staging and quick fixes
- Remove porch clutter and hide trash bins. Park cars off-street if possible.
- Clean windows for sharper views and better light.
- Replace exterior bulbs and add simple, seasonal porch accents.
- Trim shrubs that block brick details and rake leaves or debris.
Technical tips for better images
- Lenses. Use wide angles without heavy distortion. Many pros favor a 16–35 mm zoom on full-frame and often work in the 24–35 mm range for facades. Here is a guide to choosing lenses for real estate.
- Exposure. Bracket exterior exposures to hold brick texture and sky detail. Blend carefully so colors look true.
- Filters. A circular polarizer can reduce glare on brick and glass on bright Denver days.
- Tripod and leveling. Keep verticals straight and avoid tilted facades.
- Editing. Preserve natural brick color and texture. Avoid over-saturation or heavy sharpening.
- Drones. Aerials are great for context, but marketing flights must follow the FAA’s Part 107 rules. Review the FAA’s Part 107 overview and check local restrictions before flying.
What to document for your listing
- Year built and any historic designation.
- Recent masonry work, dates, contractors, and warranties.
- Notes on moisture or structural evaluations.
- Nearby amenities you plan to feature in photos, such as parks or transit.
Strong images help buyers see the value in your home’s character and care. If you want help tailoring a full photo and marketing plan for your Whittier brick home, reach out to Carol Hoffman. Our team will guide timing, prep, and storytelling so your listing shines.
FAQs
What is the best time of day to photograph a brick home in Whittier?
- Aim for golden hour or twilight to reduce harsh shadows and add warm tones, and match the session to the home’s orientation, as outlined in these real estate photo timing tips and this guide on choosing time by orientation.
How should you clean older brick before listing photos?
- Start with gentle methods, like a soft broom or low-pressure rinse. Avoid pressure washing older brick unless a pro confirms it is safe, and review these pressure washing cautions for brick.
Do you need approval for exterior changes on a historic Whittier home?
- If your property is designated or in a historic district, some exterior work requires review under Denver’s Landmark Preservation guidelines.
Which exterior shots matter most for older brick homes in Whittier?
- Capture a clean front elevation, a context shot that shows the street and trees, key brick details, and the entry. Add a twilight image if lighting is attractive for extra curb appeal.
Can you use a drone to photograph your Whittier property?
- Yes, but marketing flights must follow the FAA’s Part 107 rules; check local restrictions and airspace before flying.
