The Ultimate Real Estate Photoshoot Prep

The Ultimate Real Estate Photoshoot Prep: A Simple Checklist for Success

Let’s face it—first impressions matter. When potential buyers see your property online, the photos are what make or break their interest. And getting your home “photo-ready” doesn’t have to be complicated. It just takes a little time and a lot of attention to detail.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to do to get your property ready for its close-up—both inside and outside. It’s clear. It’s easy. And it works.

Interior Prep: The Basics

Before you start snapping photos, the inside of your home needs to be clean, organized, and neutral. This is your chance to make the space feel spacious, inviting, and ready for new owners.

1. Declutter and Remove Personal Items

  • What to do: Start by clearing out personal items like family photos, trophies, and anything that’s too “you.” The goal is for buyers to imagine themselves in the space—not feel like they’re walking into someone else’s home.

  • Why it works: A clutter-free home looks bigger and more inviting. The less personal stuff, the better buyers can envision their own life there.

2. Clean and Organize Each Room

  • What to do: Tidy up every single room. Fold blankets, straighten furniture, and put away any unnecessary items.

  • Why it works: A clean, organized space makes everything feel fresh and well-maintained. A neat home is one buyers can see themselves moving right into.

3. Clear Countertops and Surfaces

  • What to do: Remove everything from counters—kitchen, bathroom, and even coffee tables.

  • Why it works: Clear surfaces give the illusion of more space. Buyers like to see clean, open areas where they can imagine placing their own things.

4. Remove Personalized or Controversial Artwork and Decor

  • What to do: Take down any artwork that’s too personal or could be considered controversial. You want your buyers to focus on the space, not the art on the walls.

  • Why it works: Neutral décor helps buyers imagine the home in a way that suits their own tastes.

5. Remove Magnets and Personal Items from the Refrigerator

  • What to do: Take off all magnets, photos, and personal items from the fridge.

  • Why it works: A clean fridge is a simple one. It makes the kitchen look polished and sleek.

6. Replace Burnt-Out Light Bulbs

  • What to do: Make sure all the light bulbs are working and replace any that are burnt out.

  • Why it works: Lighting is essential in photos. Well-lit rooms look warmer and more inviting, while dimly lit spaces can feel off.

7. Remove Visible Cords or Wires

  • What to do: Tuck away any visible cords or wires that could distract from the clean lines of the space.

  • Why it works: Wires are eyesores. Get them out of sight to keep your home looking polished.

8. Polish and Clean Mirrors and Glass Surfaces

  • What to do: Clean all mirrors and glass surfaces so they shine.

  • Why it works: Clean, reflective surfaces make the space feel larger and brighter. Plus, fingerprints and smudges are a no-go in photos.

9. Remove Excess Personal Care Items from Bathroom Countertops

  • What to do: Clear out personal care products—no toothpaste, soap, or razors on counters.

  • Why it works: A tidy bathroom looks more luxurious and well-maintained. Buyers want to picture themselves relaxing in there, not see clutter.

10. Touch Up Paint or Repaint if Necessary

  • What to do: If your walls are scratched or faded, touch them up with a fresh coat of paint.

  • Why it works: Fresh paint makes the space feel new. It’s an easy, cost-effective way to boost your home’s appeal.

11. Remove Stains or Blemishes from Walls or Floors

  • What to do: Spot clean walls and floors, removing any stains or blemishes.

  • Why it works: Stains are a red flag. A clean, fresh space feels well-maintained and move-in ready.

12. Use the Garage or Closets for Excess Personal Items

  • What to do: Store excess items in the garage or closets, but keep them organized.

  • Why it works: Cluttered closets or garage spaces are a turn-off. Keep storage areas neat to show buyers how much space the home really offers.

Exterior Prep: The Curb Appeal

Buyers judge the property before they even step inside. If the exterior is clean, inviting, and well-maintained, they’re more likely to be excited about the interior.

1. Mow the Lawn, Trim Hedges, and Remove Dead Plants

  • What to do: Keep the yard neat. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and remove any dead plants.

  • Why it works: A well-kept lawn makes a great first impression. Buyers are more likely to see a home that’s been cared for.

2. Sweep or Pressure Wash Exterior Surfaces

  • What to do: Sweep driveways, walkways, and porches. If needed, pressure wash the exterior of the house and any other surfaces.

  • Why it works: Clean surfaces look fresh and well-maintained, boosting curb appeal and showing buyers you take care of the property.

3. Clean Windows Inside and Out

  • What to do: Clean all windows—both inside and out.

  • Why it works: Clean windows let in more natural light and make the home look brighter. Plus, smudged windows are an eyesore.

4. Clean and Organize Outdoor Living Spaces

  • What to do: Tidy up patios, decks, and any outdoor living areas.

  • Why it works: Outdoor spaces are a selling point. When they look clean and organized, buyers can easily imagine themselves enjoying that space.

Day of the Photoshoot: Final Touches

Now that the property is ready, it’s time to make sure everything is in its place before the photographer arrives.

1. Ensure the Property Is Thoroughly Cleaned

  • What to do: Do a final sweep and make sure every room is spotless.

  • Why it works: You want every detail perfect for the photoshoot. Clean spaces make a huge difference.

2. Turn on All Lights

  • What to do: Turn on every light in the house.

  • Why it works: Lights make the space feel warm and inviting, which translates into better photos.

3. Open Curtains and Blinds

  • What to do: Let natural light flood the space by opening all curtains and blinds.

  • Why it works: Natural light is your best friend in real estate photos. It makes everything feel brighter and more welcoming.

4. Straighten and Fluff Pillows and Cushions

  • What to do: Fluff pillows, straighten cushions, and make sure everything looks neat.

  • Why it works: It’s the little things that make a home look polished. Neat pillows and cushions show attention to detail.

5. Remove All Pets and Pet-Related Items

  • What to do: Take pets off the property and remove any pet-related items like beds, bowls, and toys.

  • Why it works: Pets can be distracting and may give the impression that the house isn’t clean. Buyers want to see the space, not pet stuff.

6. Remove Magnets and Personal Items from the Refrigerator

  • What to do: Clean off the refrigerator just like you did before—no magnets, photos, or personal items.

  • Why it works: The fridge should look sleek, clean, and free from distractions.

7. Move Cars from the Driveway

  • What to do: Park cars away from the property, including the driveway and street in front.

  • Why it works: The driveway looks cleaner and bigger without cars blocking the view. Plus, it makes the front of the house stand out more.

8. Ensure Exterior Is Clean and Organized

  • What to do: Double-check the lawn, porch, and outdoor areas to make sure everything is tidy.

  • Why it works: A neat exterior will set the tone for the rest of the photoshoot, making the property look well-maintained and inviting.

Conclusion

There you have it. A simple, step-by-step guide to preparing your property for its close-up. When you follow these tips, your home will look polished, clean, and ready to impress potential buyers. The better the photos, the faster you’ll sell. So take the time, follow the steps, and watch your property shine.

Need professional real estate photography? Contact us today to make sure your home gets the photos it deserves.