How to Prepare Your Home for Professional Photography

Preparing your home properly allows the photographer to capture it at its absolute best, which helps attract more buyers, stronger interest, and better results. Professional photography is one of the most important steps in showcasing your home online. A clean, bright, and well prepared space helps buyers emotionally connect and envision themselves living there. Please review the guidelines below carefully to ensure your home is photo ready on shoot day. 

Kitchen

12 kitchen
  • Clear all countertops as much as possible
  • Limit small appliances to no more than two visible items
  • Remove all magnets, photos, and papers from the refrigerator
  • Hide the garbage can
  • Clear the sink completely of dishes

Bedrooms

Copy of 18 primary bed
  • Clear top of nightstands of all clutter
  • Remove phone chargers and cords
  • Remove items stored under the bed that are visible
  • Clear dressers and tables of excess items
  • Make all beds neatly with simple, neutral bedding
  • Hide all dirty clothes and laundry

Bathrooms

29 primary bath

  • Clear countertops of all hygiene and personal care items

  • Put toilet seats down

  • Remove shampoo, soap, loofahs, and razors from showers and tubs

  • Place fresh, clean towels neatly on towel bars

  • Remove dirty floor mats and bathroom scales

  • Clean mirrors and faucets until they shine

  • Hide garbage cans

Exterior

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  • Remove all vehicles from the driveway and street in front of the home
  • Move garbage cans out of view
  • Tidy up landscaping, including raking leaves and trimming where needed
  • Remove water hoses, toys, bikes, and sports equipment
  • Clean patio furniture and outdoor living spaces
  • Clean the pool if applicable

Closets and Garages

Untitled design (14)

Closets and garages will not be photographed unless they are a special feature or high value space, such as a large walk in closet, custom built ins, or an oversized or finished garage.

  • You do not need to prepare standard closets or garages unless advised otherwise

  • If your home has a standout closet or garage feature, please ensure it is clean, organized, and visually appealing

All Interior Rooms

i family room – RS

  • Thoroughly clean all rooms, including floors, surfaces, and windows

  • Replace any burned out light bulbs to ensure even lighting

  • Turn on all lights and lamps throughout the home

  • Turn off all ceiling fans

  • Turn off all TVs and computer monitors

  • Hide shoes, jackets, coats, and everyday clothing

  • Remove visible wires and cords from electronics

  • Remove personal items such as family photos

  • Open all blinds and pull back window treatments to maximize natural light