Getting Your Home Ready for the Perfect Real Estate Photo Shoot

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Stunning Property Photos

Exterior

Remove vehicles from the driveway and ensure there are no cars visible in the front of the house.
Place trash cans out of sight (hidden behind fences, in the garage, or tucked away).
Cut and rake the grass and remove any unsightly weeds or vegetation.
Clean windows (inside and out). (Important: Clean windows are a must!)
Organize deck furniture (neatly arrange any outdoor seating, tables, etc.).
Sweep or pressure wash the driveway if needed - We Recommend G & C Soft Wash
Ensure the yard is free of kids’ toys, evidence of pets, or unnecessary clutter.
Trim any overgrown bushes or trees that may block light or the view of the house.
Ensure the front door area is neat (wipe off any dirt or debris).

General Interior

Clean Windows are a MUST!
Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs throughout the home.
Turn off all TVs and ceiling fans (Important: Ceiling fans off for the shoot!).
Conceal power cords for electronics and lamps.
Put all shoes away in closets or the entryway.
Make sure there are no clothes in washing machines or hanging in the laundry room.
Remove calendars to avoid dating the listing.
Remove any personal information (credit cards, bank statements, etc.) from visible surfaces.

Kitchen

Clear kitchen countertops of any clutter, small appliances, and personal items.
Remove fridge magnets or any items stuck to the fridge.
Put the trash can away (client preference).
Make sure the sink is clean and free of dishes.
Wipe down all surfaces (including stove, countertops, and island).
Put away any visible cleaning supplies or sponges.
Organize any pantry shelves that are visible.
Straighten bar stools and chairs (make sure they are evenly spaced and facing the right way).

Bathrooms

Ensure toilet seats are down and in good condition.
Clear the vanity of personal items like toiletries, makeup, and hair products.
Ensure mirrors are spotless (clean and streak-free).
Make sure shower curtains are positioned as you want them (open or closed).
Add fresh toilet paper in each bathroom.
Remove any towels from the bathroom (unless you're using high-quality, clean towels for staging).
Check the toilet for cleanliness and ensure it is spotless.
Wipe down sink and counter areas to remove any water spots or dust.

Bedrooms

Make beds and fluff pillows.
Straighten any pictures or artwork hanging on the walls.
Arrange pillows neatly on the bed or sofa.
Remove any personal items from bedside tables or dressers.
Avoid hiding items under beds or furniture (the camera is ultra-wide and can capture anything hidden beneath).

Living And Dining Areas

General Staging

Clean Windows are a MUST!
Remove any unsightly door mats (client preference).
Remove any area rugs that are hiding nice flooring (e.g., hardwood or tile).
Ensure all blinds are open and adjusted to a 45-degree angle (photographer will help with the final adjustments).
Check that no personal items are visible (e.g., personal photos or documents).
Ensure the home is free of clutter—less is more for real estate photography.

Thank You for Preparing Your Home for the Photo Shoot!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you've taken to get your property ready for its real estate photography session. By following this checklist, you are ensuring that your home will be showcased in the best possible light, attracting more potential buyers and setting your listing apart from the competition.

As you know, high-quality images are one of the most powerful tools in today’s real estate market. With stunning photos, your property can make a lasting first impression and spark interest from buyers online—where most home searches begin. By preparing your home in advance, you are helping us capture the true essence of your property, highlighting its unique features, and creating a visual story that buyers won’t be able to resist.

Remember, clean and clutter-free spaces allow the camera to focus on your home’s best assets, whether it's a spacious living room, a gourmet kitchen, or the beautiful backyard. Ensuring that rooms are well-lit, organized, and free of distractions will make a huge difference in the final images. Professional real estate photos play a key role in generating more showings and offers, so your preparation today will have a direct impact on the success of your listing.

If you have any last-minute questions or need assistance with any of the details, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help! Together, we’ll make sure your property shines in the best light possible and stands out in a competitive market.

Thank you once again for choosing us to capture your home. We look forward to creating stunning real estate imagery that will help you achieve your selling goals!