Picture Perfect: How Tradies Can Take Better Photos to Showcase Their Work

(Image source: Deposit Photos)

If you’re a tradie, you already know your work speaks for itself. But let’s face it—unless potential customers can see what you can do, you might be missing out on jobs.

The saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” couldn’t be more true when you’re trying to showcase your skills as a painter, carpenter, roofer, or landscaper.

Good photos aren’t just about fancy equipment or knowing the latest TikTok trends. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can take photos that highlight your work and get potential clients calling.

Here’s how to make your work look as good on camera as it does in real life.

1. Start with the Basics: Clean Up the Space

Before snapping a photo, take a few minutes to tidy up. Whether it’s a freshly painted room or a newly landscaped backyard, make sure the area is free of clutter. No one wants to see empty paint cans or piles of sawdust in your shots.

For landscapers, sweep away stray leaves. For painters, touch up any stray drips. And for roofers, ensure the area around your job site is debris-free. Clean, clear spaces make your work the star of the show.

2. Find the Right Lighting

(Image source: Deposit Photos)

Natural light is your best mate when it comes to taking great photos. For outdoor projects, shoot early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid harsh shadows. If you’re indoors, open the curtains to let in as much light as possible.

Avoid using your phone’s flash unless absolutely necessary—it can wash out colours and make everything look flat. If you’re working on a project that’s finished after dark, invest in a simple portable work light with adjustable brightness. It can make a world of difference.

3. Use Your Phone Like a Pro

You don’t need a pricey camera to take good photos. Modern smartphones have excellent cameras that are perfect for tradies. Here are a few quick tips to get the best out of your phone:

• Keep it steady. Use a tripod or prop your phone on something stable to avoid blurry shots.
• Tap to focus. On most phones, tapping the screen will adjust the focus and exposure. This is especially handy for close-ups of detailed work like custom carpentry or tiling.
• Don’t overdo filters. Stick to subtle adjustments like increasing brightness or sharpness. Keep it real—clients want to see the true quality of your work.

4. Get the Angles Right

(Image source: Pexels)

Angles can make or break a photo. For large projects like a deck or a roof, stand back and capture the entire space. For detailed work, like intricate joinery or a custom paint job, get up close to show the craftsmanship.

Try taking shots from eye level for a more natural perspective. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles—you never know which one will make your work pop.

5. Before and After Shots Are Gold

(Image source: Customer Paul, showcasing the work of APNorman & Son Painters)

Clients love a good transformation story, so always take “before” photos of the project site. Then, once the job is done, snap the “after” shots from the same angle. This comparison highlights the impact of your work and gives clients a clear idea of what you can achieve.

If you’re a landscaper, this could mean showing the journey from a patchy lawn to a lush garden. For painters, it might be the transformation from dated wallpaper to a sleek modern finish.

6. Add a Human Touch

People connect with people, so don’t be shy about including yourself or your team in a few shots. Whether it’s a group photo after completing a job or an action shot of you on the tools, it shows the personal side of your business.

Make sure you’re wearing clean, professional gear—no one’s expecting you to look like you just walked off a runway, but neat and presentable goes a long way.

7. Put Your Photos to Work

Now that you’ve got some cracking photos, it’s time to use them to attract new clients. This is where our platform, ServiceSeeking.com.au, comes into play. By showcasing your work on your profile, you’ll stand out to customers looking for reliable tradies in their area.

Think of it like a visual résumé. When potential clients see quality photos of jobs you’ve completed, they’ll feel more confident in hiring you. And the more jobs you secure, the more you can grow your business.

8. Don’t Forget These Often-Overlooked Tips

Sometimes, it’s the small details that can make a big difference in your photos. Here are a few handy tips tradies often forget:

1. Wipe Your Lens Before You Snap
   Your phone spends a lot of time in your pocket or toolbelt, so it’s no surprise the lens can get smudged. Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the lens before taking photos. A quick wipe can instantly make your pictures clearer and crisper.

2. Invest in a Decent Camera Phone
   You don’t need the latest flagship model to take great photos, but if you’re upgrading, look for a phone with at least 12 megapixels (MP) and a wide aperture (lower numbers like f/1.8 are better for letting in light). Many budget-friendly phones now come with features like image stabilisation and AI enhancements, so shop smart without breaking the bank.

3. Avoid Zooming In
   Digital zoom reduces image quality, so if you want a close-up, move closer to your subject instead. This keeps your shots sharp and detailed.

4. Watch the Resolution Settings
   Check your phone’s camera settings and ensure you’re shooting at the highest resolution available. Higher resolution photos show off your work better, especially when customers zoom in to check the finer details.

5. Keep Your Battery Charged
   This might sound obvious, but nothing’s worse than finishing a job and realising your phone’s out of juice. A portable power bank is a great investment to ensure you’re always ready to snap those post-job pics.

These small tweaks can take your photos from average to impressive without much effort. Give them a go and see the difference in how your work comes to life on screen!

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take great photos—just a bit of effort and attention to detail. With these tips, your work will shine on screen as much as it does in real life.

Remember, taking better photos isn’t just about looking good; it’s about building trust and showing clients what you can do. And when you’re ready to take your business to the next level, join ServiceSeeking.com.au to connect with clients who can’t wait to see what you’ve got to offer.

Ready to show off your skills? Grab your phone, tidy up the space, and start snapping. Your next big job could be just one photo away.