FEATURE DRONES
means no one has to climb onto a roof to snap an image. Higham points out that members who are working on really big projects are likely to benefit most from using drones. Although smaller projects on big plots of land where there is a lot of ground to cover can also warrant their use. A different flight path Those keen to implement drones will need to determine whether planning and potential hassles, such as having the right regulatory clearance and not being too close to common flight paths, warrant it. Recalling a recent project in Manchester in the flight path of the airport, Higham says: “We had severe restrictions so we had to speak to the airport in advance and call from site to let them know we’re flying the drone. You have to approach drones with caution and professionalism so you use them correctly. But then you have the benefit of seeing your project from a bird’s eye view, capturing the details and scale of your project from above.” The simplest way to capture great photographs is to hire a professional. As Higham points out, we cannot all be good at everything. Builders are great at building but not all are going to be skilled at photography or writing. That’s not to say no builder can do these jobs well, it’s just going to require more
A bird’s eye view of a residential project
planning and time. Nevertheless, if you choose to snap project pictures yourself, Higham says it’s best to avoid a few common mistakes. “Taking photographs on phones is fine if you know how to compose a photograph,” Higham says. “It’s about good composition, not just capturing an image. You need the best light and the best angle.” It’s the same with writing. Knowing what works well is a skill. Higham says: “Sometimes builders write an awards
submission or targeted marketing materials but it doesn’t come across professionally or communicate the intended message. “Your writing and photography need to target your ideal client. Why showcase a project you’re not bothered about when you have amazing ones that would attract more of the type of work you want. Choosing the right project and talking about it in the right way attracts the right clients.
Submitting your Master Builder Awards entry
When entering the Master Builder Awards, Higham has specific advice to ensure you send in the best submission you can.
Be aware of what an ‘award-winning project’ looks like: Higham says: “Think ahead about what you want to showcase, like when you’ve won a job and you know
winner’. Plan your promotional actions around that project to ensure you have the best possible submission. Don’t rush it: Higham advises that members be properly prepared with a plan of action based on a specific schedule. “You don’t
entries. “Capture before photos on your phone, and get professional photos for after to show that real difference,” Higham says. Write purposefully: Poorly written submissions, where you “just kind of write anything just to fill the space on
want to get to within two weeks of the awards submission deadline and decide to submit a project.” Emphasise standout features: Keep an eye out for a particular detail during the build that
the entry form” is not going to get you anywhere. It’s far better to spend time reflecting on the project, what makes it unique and memorable. “Make sure it is written in a professional tone and doesn’t sound the same way that you speak on site.”
it’s going to be really good, and
is going to make the project stand out among other
you’re thinking, ‘this could be an award
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Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
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