5 Ways to Make Media Day Memorable
Let’s be honest—one of the main reasons people hire real estate agents is for their marketing expertise. Sure, reputation and influence matter, but the media assets that represent the listing are what actually make the first impression. Today’s realtors have to be part marketer, part media producer—and being prepared on shoot day is critical to keeping things smooth and showing your clients that you’re a pro with strong vendor relationships.
Here are five ways to make your media day memorable—for all the right reasons:
1. Understand What’s Involved
Today’s media packages are way more than just a few listing photos. Our premium shoots often include horizontal video for MLS and YouTube, vertical reels for social media, and either a Zillow 3D or Matterport tour. Between camera swaps and lens changes, we’re making 6–8 passes through every room. It’s a highly physical and mentally demanding process that requires focus, speed, and creativity.
2. Have the Property 110% Ready
We used to say “arrive 30 minutes early,” but these days, you should be at the property 60–90 minutes before your photographer. That gives you time for small talk with the homeowner, to size up the property, and to handle last-minute tweaks without panic. A well-prepped listing makes everything run faster and smoother—for you, the seller, and the media crew.
3. Let the Photographer Work
Following your photographer from room to room, tweaking pillows or moving items between shots? Not helpful. You’re paying for polished listing media, not an Architectural Digest spread. Trust your media team to capture what works best—and stay out of the way so they can focus and move efficiently.
4. Handle the Exterior Details
Landscaping, pool vacuums, garden hoses, grill covers, patio umbrellas—get it all handled before we show up. And yes, every single car needs to be out of the driveway. These details might seem small, but they make a massive difference in how clean and high-end the final visuals look.
5. Keep It Drama-Free
Homeowners, pets, inspectors, tradespeople, pool guys, landscapers—anyone not directly involved in the shoot adds complexity and delays. It’s your responsibility to make sure the property is clear and that scheduling conflicts are handled ahead of time. This is your show—keep the stage clear and distraction-free so we can stay on track.
Bonus: Come Camera-Ready
If you’re going to be on camera, show up as your best self—outfit, makeup, and energy all dialed in. Have your lines or talking points rehearsed so we’re not burning daylight on multiple takes. This isn’t the time to “just wing it.” The more prepared you are, the better you’ll look and sound on screen.
The expectations for quality and creativity are higher than ever—and the job of a real estate media producer is more demanding than it’s ever been. When you come prepared, respect the process, and trust your vendors, it shows. And that polish carries all the way through to the final product—and ultimately, your brand.
Andy Lassiter is the Owner and Creative Director at Keen Eye Marketing. After 16 years in the business, he’s still on the ground shooting signature listings and consulting Charleston’s top agents. Learn more at keeneyemarketing.com or reach out directly at 843.224.9213.