Pre-Photo Shoot Checklist
Thank you for preparing your home for its real estate photography session! A little preparation goes a long way in making your home look spacious, bright, inviting, and ready to attract potential buyers.
Please complete as many of the following items as possible before the photographer arrives.
Living Room & Common Areas
• Remove clutter from tables, shelves, and countertops.
• Put away blankets, toys, remotes, and magazines.
• Fluff pillows and neatly arrange cushions.
• Straighten furniture and rugs.
• Remove personal items and excessive decorations.
Kitchen & Dining
• Clear countertops as much as possible.
• Remove dishes, sponges, dish soap, and drying racks.
• Put away small appliances, food, and trash cans.
• Clean the sink, faucet, and stainless-steel appliances.
• Clear the dining table, leaving only simple styling if desired.
• Remove magnets, notes, and papers from the refrigerator.
Bedrooms
• Make every bed with smooth, wrinkle-free bedding.
• Remove clothing, shoes, and laundry baskets.
• Clear nightstands and dressers.
• Hide charging cables, fans, and personal items.
• Open closets only if they are intended to be photographed; otherwise, close the doors.
Bathrooms
• Put away toiletries, toothbrushes, and personal products.
• Remove bath mats, toilet brushes, and trash cans.
• Close toilet lids.
• Clean mirrors, glass, faucets, and countertops.
• Hang fresh, neatly folded towels.
• Remove shampoo bottles and shower clutter.
Exterior & Curb Appeal
• Mow the lawn and tidy landscaping.
• Sweep the porch, walkway, and patio.
• Put away hoses, toys, tools, and gardening equipment.
• Move vehicles out of the driveway and away from the front of the home, if possible.
• Hide garbage and recycling bins.
• Open patio umbrellas and arrange outdoor furniture neatly.
The Final Touches
Let the light in
• Open blinds and curtains throughout the home. Replace any burned-out bulbs, and use matching color temperatures where possible.
• Turn on the lights
• Turn on interior lights and lamps before the photographer arrives, unless your photographer provides different instructions.
Set a comfortable temperature
• Make the home comfortable for the photo session and any extended preparation.
Plan for pets
• Arrange for pets to be out of the home or secured in an agreed, out-of-frame location. Put away pet beds, bowls, toys, and litter boxes.
Protect valuables and privacy
• Secure jewelry, medications, firearms, sensitive documents, and other valuables. Remove family photos, visible personal information, and items you don't want shown online.