Property photography keys and access arrangements

Property photography access works best when one person confirms how the photographer will enter, which areas are included and who can resolve an access problem. Keep keys and entry details out of public enquiry messages.

Name the responsible contact

Decide whether the agent, owner, property manager or occupant is coordinating the visit. Give the studio a practical contact who can answer on the day. If the person requesting the shoot will not be at the property, make that clear when the booking is discussed.

Explain whether access is accompanied, by agency key collection or through another agreed arrangement. Include travel between a key collection point and the property when discussing the schedule. A shoot cannot start at the property while the photographer is still collecting a key across town.

Check the whole route

Apartment access may involve a building entry, lift, parking, concierge and a separate unit door. Commercial premises may have a reception contact and restricted areas. A rural property may have gates or a long approach. Describe those practical steps without putting codes or security instructions into an open website form.

Confirm the rooms and outdoor areas that are included. Locked sheds, garages, balconies or separate accommodation should not be assumed accessible. If a room is excluded, tell the photographer and make sure the proposed deliverables still make sense.

Prepare for an unexpected delay

Agree who should be called if nobody answers or a key does not work. Ask how a late start could affect the booked scope and the next appointment. It is better to resolve that in advance than to assume an unlimited wait is included.

Keep pets secured in an arrangement chosen by the occupant. Let the photographer know about site conditions that affect access, such as steps, works in progress or restricted parking. Do not expect the photographer to enter an unsafe or unauthorised area to complete a promised shot list.

Close the visit clearly

Confirm the key return arrangement and any agreed lock-up instructions. If an agent needs a completion update before arranging the next contractor, request that as part of the booking. Keep the access contact separate from the person approving the final images if those are different roles.

For an enquiry, suburb, property type, occupancy and a broad access description are enough to start. Our team will confirm the practical details privately once the booking scope is understood. Do not submit alarm codes or lockbox combinations through the public form.

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