A little preparation before your shoot makes a real difference in the final photos — not because the photographer needs it to do good work, but because a well-prepped space simply photographs better. Here’s what actually helps, room by room.
Decluttering
- Clear countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms — a few personal items are fine, but empty surfaces photograph as more spacious
- Put away everyday clutter: mail, remote controls, chargers, shoes by the door
- Tuck cords out of sight where possible — behind furniture or along baseboards
- Remove personal photos and highly personal items so buyers can picture themselves in the space
- Make beds and straighten throw pillows and blankets
- Store pet bowls, litter boxes, and pet toys out of frame
Lighting
- Open all curtains and blinds — natural light is one of the biggest factors in how a room reads
- Turn on every light in the house, including closets and under-cabinet lighting — even in daylight, this fills in shadows
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs beforehand, and try to match bulb color temperature room to room if you can
- Turn on any exterior or landscape lighting if the shoot includes twilight or evening shots
Exterior Prep
- Mow the lawn and edge walkways a day or two before the shoot
- Sweep the porch, driveway, and walkways clear of leaves and debris
- Put away garbage bins, hoses, and yard tools
- Move vehicles out of the driveway and off the street in front of the home if possible
- Coil or tuck away any visible cords, hoses, or cables on the exterior
- A few potted plants or a clean welcome mat by the front door go a long way for curb appeal
The Day Before
- Do a final walkthrough of every room that will be photographed
- Wipe down mirrors, glass surfaces, and stainless steel appliances
- Check that all interior doors are either fully open or fully closed — half-open reads as untidy in photos
- Confirm access — garage code, lockbox, or someone available to let the photographer in
None of this needs to be perfect. A clean, well-lit, decluttered space is genuinely most of the work — the rest is what we’re there for.
Ready to book a shoot? See our packages and pricing or get in touch to schedule.
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