How to Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photoshoot

Professional photos are one of the most important tools for showcasing your property. A well prepared home helps the photographer capture bright, inviting images that attract more buyers and create a strong first impression. The tips below will help you get your property ready before the photographer arrives.

General Guidelines

Before the session begins, turn on all lights throughout the home to brighten rooms and create a warm atmosphere. Make sure every bulb works and that lamps are plugged in. If you have pets, keep them in a room that has already been photographed or temporarily out of the house to avoid distractions.

For the best results, stay behind the photographer, avoid crossing the camera’s path and be mindful of reflections in mirrors or glass. Turn off televisions, computer screens and any devices that might draw attention in photos. All home staging and tidying should be completed before the photographer arrives.

Preparing the Exterior

A clean, uncluttered exterior sets the tone for the entire photoshoot. Whenever possible, park vehicles in the garage or on the street across from your home. Avoid parking directly in front of the property so the photographer has a clear, uninterrupted view.

Remove any items that may distract from the façade such as recycling bins, trash cans, hoses, toys, tools, sports equipment or seasonal materials. If you do not have a garage, store these items out of sight in a shed or along the side of the house.

In winter, make sure pathways, steps and the driveway are shoveled and safe. Apply salt or de icing products to reduce ice patches. In summer, ensure the lawn is freshly mowed and landscaping is tidy.

Also ensure the photographer has easy access to the backyard. Clear a path in winter and remove garden items, pool accessories, toys and laundry from view in summer. If you have pets, clean the yard before the photoshoot begins.

Preparing the Interior

Entrance

A welcoming entrance creates a strong first impression. Store coats, shoes, boots, umbrellas and personal items out of sight. Unless the weather requires it, remove small rugs or mats.

Living Spaces

Clutter affects how spacious a room appears. Remove excess décor, personal collections, extra cushions, remote controls and oversized plants. Keep surfaces clear to highlight the size and flow of the space.

Kitchen

Clear counters completely by putting away small appliances, dishes and items in the sink. Remove rugs, dish towels, magnets and photos from the fridge. Hide garbage and recycling bins and remove pet bowls. Keep all surfaces clean and tidy.

Bedrooms

Make the beds neatly with box springs hidden. Put away clothes, toys, papers and personal items. Clear nightstands and dressers. If possible, remove bulky exercise equipment and unnecessary furniture.

Bathrooms

Close the toilet lid and store shampoo, soaps and cleaning products out of sight. Remove towels, toiletries, laundry and small floor mats. Keep counters and mirrors spotless.

During the Photoshoot

Once your broker schedules the photoshoot, our team will contact you to set the appointment within a 2 to 4 hour window based on availability. When the photographer arrives, they will introduce themselves and explain the process.

The photographer will capture each room to which you provide access, as well as the exterior. Storage spaces such as closets, walk ins, garages and utility rooms are typically not photographed, making them ideal places to temporarily store items. Sessions usually last about 30 to 45 minutes.

The photographer selects the best images to represent your home. Photos are delivered as soon as possible after the session, typically within 24 business hours unless special circumstances occur.

Preparing your home thoroughly helps ensure high quality photos that showcase its full potential and attract more buyers.

How to Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photoshoot