How to Prepare Your Property for a Real Estate Photo Shoot: A Checklist for Success

A successful real estate photo shoot starts long before the photographer arrives. The way a property is presented in photos can have a major impact on how quickly it sells and how many buyers it attracts. That’s why preparing a home properly is critical.

This detailed guide will walk you through exactly how to prepare your property for a real estate photo shoot, ensuring every shot captures your home at its best.

Why Preparation Matters

• First impressions are visual: Buyers decide within seconds whether to explore further.
• Professional photos sell faster: Homes with polished images attract more clicks and showings.
• Photography captures what the eye might overlook: Dust, clutter, and distractions become more noticeable in photos.

With proper preparation, even a modest home can be photographed to look like a model property.

Whole-House Checklist: General Tips for Every Room

1. Declutter Surfaces

• Remove mail, magazines, cords, and personal items
• Keep countertops and tables clear

2. Clean Thoroughly

• Dust furniture and baseboards
• Vacuum and mop floors
• Clean mirrors and windows

3. Let in Natural Light

• Open blinds and curtains
• Turn on all lights, including lamps and overheads

4. Depersonalize

• Remove family photos and personal mementos
• Use neutral decor to appeal to a wider audience

5. Hide Cords and Electronics

• Tuck away chargers, remotes, and visible wires

6. Stage Lightly

• Add simple decor like throw pillows, flowers, or fruit bowls
• Avoid overcrowding

Room-by-Room Preparation Tips

Living Room

• Fluff pillows and straighten cushions
• Remove pet items and children’s toys
• Position furniture for open sightlines

Kitchen

• Clear countertops entirely
• Hide trash cans, dish racks, and cleaning supplies
• Polish stainless steel appliances

Dining Area

• Set the table with minimal decor (placemats, centerpiece)
• Straighten chairs and table linens

Bedrooms

• Make beds with fresh linens
• Clear nightstands
• Hide laundry and personal items

Bathrooms

• Remove all toiletries from counters and showers
• Hang clean, matching towels
• Close toilet lids

Home Office

• Clear the desk surface
• Neatly organize any shelves
• Remove excess paperwork or cords

Exterior Preparation Tips

Front of the Home (Curb Appeal)

• Mow the lawn and trim the hedges
• Sweep the porch and walkways
• Remove cars from the driveway and the street
• Hide trash bins and garden hoses

Backyard/Outdoor Areas

• Clean and stage patio furniture
• Clear toys, tools, and clutter
• Skim the pool if applicable

Bonus Tips for a Picture-Perfect Shoot

1. Turn off ceiling fans: Motion blur can ruin photos
2. Turn off TVs and monitors: Prevent unnecessary screen distractions
3. Replace burnt-out bulbs: Consistent lighting matters
4. Use warm light bulbs: Soft lighting photographs better than harsh, cool tones
5. Alert household members or pets: The space needs to stay tidy during the shoot

Conclusion

A little prep work goes a long way when it comes to real estate photography. By following this checklist, you’ll ensure that your property shines in every shot and makes a memorable first impression on buyers.

A clean, staged, and well-lit home helps you get the most from your professional photographer—and ultimately, from your sale or rental.

Ready to showcase your home in its best light? Contact us today to book your real estate photo shoot!