Business Success

From Drab to Fab: How Before-and-After Photos Get You More Work

Written by Bettina Diaz | Feb 7, 2025 12:50:33 PM

If you’re a tradie looking to score more jobs and grow your business, one of the best (and easiest) ways to stand out is by showcasing your work through before-and-after photos.

Whether you’re a carpenter, painter, plumber, or landscaper, a well-documented transformation speaks louder than words—and can help you win more clients on ServiceSeeking.com.au.

Why Before-and-After Photos Work

People love a good transformation. Just think of all the home renovation shows on TV—there’s something satisfying about seeing a space go from drab to fab. The same principle applies to your trade work. Before-and-after photos instantly show potential clients what you can do and give them confidence that you’re the right person for the job.

Unlike lengthy explanations, high-quality photos provide instant proof of your skills, allowing customers to visualise what’s possible for their own project. Plus, when customers scroll through ServiceSeeking.com.au, they’re more likely to stop and take notice of a tradie with eye-catching before-and-after shots.

How to Take Great Before-and-After Photos

You don’t need fancy equipment—just a decent phone camera and a bit of attention to detail. Here’s how to make sure your photos are working for you, not against you.

1. Take Photos from the Same Angle

Consistency is key. Position yourself at the same spot for both before and after shots to highlight the transformation clearly. If you take the “before” photo from one side of the room and the “after” from another, the difference won’t be as striking.

2. Use Good Lighting

Natural light works best, so try to take photos during the day when there’s plenty of light streaming in. Avoid harsh shadows or dim conditions that can make your work look less impressive.

3. Declutter the Space

If you’re a painter or a builder, clear out any tools, ladders, or debris before snapping your “after” photo. A clean, polished result is far more appealing to potential clients than a cluttered worksite.

4. Take Close-Ups of Detail Work

If you’ve done intricate tiling, custom joinery, or decorative plastering, get some close-up shots to showcase your craftsmanship. These little details can help your work stand out from the competition.

5. Frame Your Shots Well

Avoid tilting your camera at odd angles. Keep your shots level, and make sure the subject of the photo (your work!) is front and centre.

Where to Use Your Before-and-After Photos

Once you’ve got some high-quality transformation photos, don’t let them sit on your phone! Here’s where to put them to good use:

1. Your ServiceSeeking.com.au Profile

The first place to upload your photos is on your ServiceSeeking.com.au profile. Customers searching for tradies want proof of past work, and before-and-after shots can be the deciding factor that gets you hired.

2. Your Quotes & Messages

If you’re responding to a job request, attach relevant before-and-after photos to your quote. It gives customers instant confidence in your ability and makes your offer more compelling.

3. Social Media & Website

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and even a simple website can help you reach new clients. Posting before-and-after photos regularly keeps your work visible and gives potential customers a reason to trust your skills.

4. Google Reviews & Testimonials

If a happy client leaves a glowing review, attach a before-and-after photo of the job you did for them. Seeing real results alongside positive feedback makes your services even more attractive.

Turning Photos into More Jobs

Taking great before-and-after shots is just the first step. Here’s how to make sure they actually lead to more bookings:

1. Highlight Your Best Work

If you’re a handyman who does everything from painting to decking, focus on the jobs that best represent your skills. Show off the work you want more of!

2. Use Captions to Tell the Story

A picture is worth a thousand words, but a short caption helps, too! Describe what the issue was before and how you fixed it. For example: This old, cracked driveway got a brand-new exposed aggregate finish, making the home look fresh again!

3. Encourage Clients to Share

Ask happy customers to share your work on their social media or leave a review mentioning the transformation. Word-of-mouth marketing, combined with solid visual proof, is a game-changer.

4. Regularly Update Your Photos

The more recent your work, the better. Make it a habit to take before-and-after shots on every job and update your profile regularly.

Get More Leads with ServiceSeeking.com.au

If you’re ready to attract more clients and grow your business, having a strong online presence is key—and before-and-after photos can make all the difference. The easiest way to start showcasing your work? Sign up for a plan on ServiceSeeking.com.au and get more leads from customers looking for skilled tradies like you.

Don’t let potential clients scroll past—grab their attention with stunning before-and-after photos today!