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Tips and Tricks

How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography

Camera in a room

Selling or renting your property starts with a great first impression, and nothing achieves this better than professional real estate photography. However, ensuring your home is photo-ready can make all the difference in creating an inviting and attractive listing. Here are essential steps to prepare your property for a successful photoshoot.


Why Preparation Matters

Professional photos can highlight your home’s best features, but they can only do so much if the space isn’t well-prepared. A clean and organized home:

  • Creates a strong emotional connection for potential buyers or renters.
  • Makes your listing stand out in a competitive market.
  • Reduces the time your property spends on the market.

Follow these tips to make the process smoother for everyone involved and showcase your home in its best light.


Pre-Photography Checklist

1. Declutter and Depersonalize

  • Remove personal items: Family photos, fridge magnets, and personal decor should be stored away.
  • Minimize clutter: Clear countertops, tidy shelves, and organize furniture to create a clean and spacious look.
  • Limit furniture: Remove any unnecessary pieces to make rooms feel larger and more inviting.

2. Deep Clean the Entire Property

  • Floors: Vacuum carpets, mop hard floors, and polish any reflective surfaces.
  • Windows: Clean all windows inside and out for maximum natural light.
  • Bathrooms: Ensure sinks, mirrors, and shower areas are spotless. Close toilet lids.

3. Optimize Lighting

  • Replace bulbs: Ensure all light fixtures work and use bulbs with the same color temperature.
  • Open curtains and blinds: Allow natural light to fill the space.
  • Turn on lights: This will create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4. Stage Key Areas

  • Living room: Arrange furniture to highlight the flow of the space. Add fresh flowers or a decorative centerpiece.
  • Kitchen: Remove small appliances and clutter. Leave out one or two visually appealing items, such as a bowl of fruit or a cookbook.
  • Bedrooms: Make the beds with fresh linens and add decorative pillows.
  • Outdoor spaces: Mow the lawn, clean patios, and set up outdoor furniture to look inviting.

5. Address Minor Repairs

  • Fix any visible damage such as chipped paint, broken handles, or leaky faucets.
  • Hide cords and cables to keep areas neat and tidy.

6. Final Touches Before the Photographer Arrives

  • Ensure pets are removed or confined to an area not being photographed.
  • Put away pet bowls, beds, and toys.
  • Empty trash bins and hide cleaning supplies.


The Day of the Shoot

On the day of the shoot, take a final walk through your home. Ask yourself, “Does this space feel open, clean, and inviting?” This small effort will save time during the photoshoot and result in better-quality images.


Examples of Cluttered Spaces

Example of a cluttered kitchen
Example of a cluttered study
Example of a cluttered living room
Example of a cluttered living room
Example of a cluttered living room


Examples of Clean Spaces

Example of a clean bathroom
Example of a clean living room
Example of a clean patio
Example of a clean bedroom
Example of a clean dining room


Conclusion

Preparing your home for real estate photography is a vital step in creating a standout property listing. A little effort goes a long way in ensuring your home looks its absolute best, helping you attract more interest and potential buyers or renters. By following these tips, you’re setting the stage for a successful and stress-free photoshoot.

Need help with staging or additional guidance? Feel free to reach out — we’re here to ensure your property shines!

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