The Ultimate Guide to Trailer Photography and Videography for Custom Trailer Pros

The goal of this project is to deliver 30 photos and up to 40 photos, along with a one-minute horizontal video. Professionally edited and delivered the next day.

As a real estate photographer, you're used to shooting houses, but what about when the "home" has wheels? Custom trailers present a unique and exciting challenge, blending commercial photography with interior and exterior architectural shots. This guide, based on my experience shooting for Custom Trailer Pros, will walk you through the process, from capturing essential details to creating a stunning video tour.

Level Before Taking Photos:

Before starting the photo shoot, you may need to adjust the trailer to ensure it's level before taking photos. This will create less warping in the exterior photos. Also, it will make it easier to do the video inside. Sometimes the trailers are not set on level ground, so an adjustment is needed from the front of the trailer.

Trailers can be adjusted from the front with a crank. Sometimes, these are electric cranks and may not be powered; sometimes, they are manual cranks, and the manual cranks can be adjusted before the photo shoot.

Phase 1: Exterior Photography – Capturing the Trailer's Curb Appeal

The goal of your exterior shots is to highlight the trailer's design and features while also providing crucial documentation for the company. I recommend using a tripod and bracketing three exposures: one at the base exposure (0), one two stops over (+2), and one two stops under (-2). This gives you the data you need for a perfect HDR blend in post-production.

Start with the VIN Number: The very first shot you take should be a clear, well-lit photo of the VIN number. This is a critical documentation photo that follows the trailer through the entire order and delivery process.
The Front Corner Shot: Begin your creative journey with a dynamic front corner shot. This angle provides a great sense of the trailer's size and shape. Open any service windows or doors to showcase the interior and create a welcoming atmosphere.
The Side Profile: Be cautious with a straight-on side shot, especially if the trailer is on an unlevel lot. The angle can make the trailer appear to be leaning. If the ground is level, a straight side shot can be great for showcasing the full length of the trailer. If not, a slightly angled shot from the front or back is a better alternative.
The Front and Hitch: Don't forget a head-on shot of the front of the trailer, including the hitch. This area may house a generator, which is an important feature to document if present. This shot serves both as a marketing image and a documentation photo to ensure the trailer leaves the lot with all its components.
Focus on the Details: Look for unique features like the service window. Get a nice close-up shot that highlights the quality and detail. If the trailer has an exterior patio, treat it like a house's entrance. Show off the full area and any built-in features like smokers, grills, or sinks.

Key Camera Settings for Exterior Shots:

Camera Mode: Aperture Priority
Aperture: I typically shoot at f/11 for a good depth of field
ISO: Keep your ISO low, around 400, to minimize noise.
Shots: Capture 3 bracketed exposures (+2, 0, -2) for each shot.

Key Camera Settings for Interior Shots:

Camera Mode: Aperture Priority
Aperture: f/11
ISO: I use ISO 400 for these interiors to make sure I'm capturing enough light.
Lens: A wide-angle lens, around 12mm, is ideal for capturing the full scope of the space.
Tripod: Absolutely essential for capturing consistent, sharp shots and for blending all three exposures for your HDR image.
Post-Production for Custom Trailers: Send Raw bracketed photos files to the editors.

Phase 2: Interior Photography – Documenting the Custom Build

The interior of a custom trailer is where the magic happens. Your job is to capture the full scope of the design, from the overall layout to the smallest details. You should aim for a combination of landscape and portrait photos to provide a comprehensive look.

When you're scheduled to take photos of a trailer's interior, check the floor before you start shooting. The floor may have been recently cleaned and shined with a tire dressing product, which gives it a black, glossy appearance. This often happens when a trailer is detailed right before it's delivered to a customer, which can be on the same day as your photo shoot. Also, it's a good idea to keep a pair of rain boots in the car. For any photo shoots, the properties can sometimes be wet and muddy, so you will need a way to keep your feet dry.

Prevent Footprints

To prevent leaving footprints and gravel dust on the shiny floor, be sure to wear clean shoes, shoe covers, or a pair of crocs. This will ensure the floor looks spotless in your photos.

Start with the Sweep: Begin with a wide-angle shot from the entrance, showing the full length of the interior. I like to take three shots from this position: one to the left, one straight down the middle, and one to the right. Use a tripod at about five feet high to get a good perspective.
Work Your Way Down the Aisle: Move methodically down the trailer, capturing key features as you go. Look for unique elements like sinks, counters, and built-in equipment. Take landscape shots that showcase the width of the space and the layout.
Switch to Portrait Mode: After you've captured the space in landscape, switch your camera to portrait orientation. Lower your tripod slightly and work your way back down the aisle, capturing the same angles as before. This offers a unique perspective and is ideal for social media and website galleries.
Go Low for the Details: Finally, lower your tripod even further, to about shelf or counter height. This low angle allows you to capture details that might be missed otherwise, such as wiring, shelving, or fire extinguisher systems.

Interior Photo Checklist for Custom Trailer Pros

Here is a list of items to look for and address before shooting the interior of the trailers. Our goal is to create clean, professional marketing photos that highlight the quality of our work without any distractions.

Turn on the lights: Ensure all interior lights are on to illuminate the space properly.
Remove all tools: Make sure no tools are visible in the photos. This includes small project tools, drills, toolboxes, etc.
Move the spare tire: Please reposition any spare tires so they are not in the main walkway or dominating the shot. They should be stored out of sight.
Clear all paperwork: Remove any checklists, work orders, or other documents from the space.
Hide cleaning supplies: Ensure all cleaning supplies, rags, and bottles are completely out of view.
Stow the owner's gift bag: The blue gift bag for the new owner should not be in the photos. It's usually placed in the sink, so please remove it before shooting.

Phase 3: Video – Creating a Social Media Tour

Video is a crucial component for marketing these custom trailers. A one-minute walkthrough video is perfect for social media.

Keep it Simple and Smooth: I use a simple handheld approach. No fancy gimbals needed. Just focus on smooth, slow movements.
The "Push In, Pull Out": Start with a slow push-in shot on the exterior, maybe a front corner or a side. Count "one, two, three, four" as you push in.
Slow Motion is Key: Shoot your clips at a higher frame rate (like 60fps) and slow them down to 50% in your editing app. This creates a beautiful, cinematic slow-motion effect.
Interior Clips: Inside, capture a variety of shots:
- A slow walk down the aisle.
- A push-in on the sink or other key features.
- A pull-out shot from the back door.
Edit on the Go:
Post-Production Video for Custom Trailers: Send unedited video files to the editors and request a horizontal video that is one minute in length.
No logo, no address, and no additional information needs to be added to the intro or outro of the video.

By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to deliver a comprehensive photo and video package that not only markets the custom trailers but also provides essential documentation for the company. Happy shooting!

Examples of Custom Trailer Pros Photos