Pre-Shoot Checklist for Homeowners
Preparing your home for photography is key to capturing stunning visuals. Use this guide to ensure your property is photo-ready.
General Interior Preparation
- Declutter surfaces and remove personal items
- Clean windows and mirrors for optimal light
- Ensure all light bulbs are working
- Open blinds and curtains to maximize natural light
Exterior Preparations
- Lawn
- Mow the lawn, trim edges, and remove any debris.
- Garden
- Weed flower beds, prune bushes, and add fresh mulch.
- Driveway & Walkways
- Remove cars, bikes, and toys, clean any stains.
- Entryway
- Sweep porch, clean front door, and add a potted plant.
- Vehicles
- Park away from the property or move out of sight.
Interior Room-by-Room Guide
- Living & Family Room
- Arrange furniture for space
- Hide cords/remotes
- Turn off TVs/computers
- Clean and stage the fireplace with logs or candles
- Dining Room
- Set the table with dinnerware or a centerpiece
- Space chairs evenly
- Use soft, ambient lighting and fresh flowers
- Kitchen
- Clear counters
- Clean sink/appliances
- Remove fridge magnets
- Organize cabinets and drawers to appear spacious
- Bedrooms
- Make beds with clean linens
- Clear nightstands (add a lamp/book)
- Organize closets and remove personalized items
- Bathrooms
- Clear counters
- Clean shower/tub of soap scum
- Polish fixtures and mirrors
- Hide all toiletries and personal care products
Pets
Remove pets from the premises during the photoshoot. Hide all pet supplies (food bowls, toys, litter boxes).
Preparing a basement requires special attention due to lighting challenges and potential for clutter.
- Lighting: Add extra lighting (lamps, spotlights, or LEDs) if natural light is limited.
- Decluttering: Remove unnecessary items and boxes to create a sense of space.
- Staging: Showcase potential use: home office, entertainment area, or gym.
- Walls/Ceilings: Clean dust and cobwebs; consider a fresh coat of paint if needed.
- Safety: Ensure the area is well-lit and safe for the photographer.
- Unfinished Spaces: Focus on highlighting size, ceiling height, and cleanliness.
- Do a final walk-through to ensure everything is in place.
- Open all blinds and curtains to maximize natural light.
- Turn on all lights.
- Remove any trash or recycling bins from view.
- Make sure the photographer has clear access to all areas.
- Leave the property before the photographer arrives.