House Photography Prep Checklist

 Here are our general tips for making sure your listing will look its best!

*Please note* Your photographer will take photos with an ultra-wide lens. Please plan to be on a different floor or off property to avoid being caught in reflective surfaces like mirrors and TVs or through windows.


Outside

  • Mow the lawn, trim shrubs, and tidy the landscaping.

  • Move cars out of sight (e.g., into the garage or in front of a neighbor’s house).

  • Place trash cans, bikes, toys, hoses and other clutter out of sight.

Inside

  • Hide or remove any furniture or objects that will get in the artist’s way as they moves through the home.

  • Open all curtains and turn blinds up at a 45 degree angle so light is directed up at the ceiling.

  • Turn off all ceiling fans.

  • Make sure that all doors open freely and that each room is camera-ready from all corners and angles.

  • Replace any burned-out light bulbs.

  • Turn on all lamps and lights, including under the microwave! Better lighting means better results!

  •  Less is more. Remove all clutter and knick knacks from flat surfaces (tables, shelves, etc.) and store excess furniture. Put away toys, books, and other personal items.

  • Clean kitchen counters and hide smaller appliances such as toasters or coffee makers if possible. 

  • Remove dishtowels from hanging on refrigerators, doorknobs, drawers or ovens.

  • Hide dish rags, sponges and soaps under the sink.

  • Remove magnets from the refrigerator.

  • In bathrooms, clean mirrors and counters. Close toilet seats. Hide toothbrushes. Remove rugs from the floor. (You can usually tuck them in the tub.)

  •  Empty or hide all indoor trash cans.

  • Hide pet equipment and paraphernalia such as litter boxes, food bowls, beds, and toys. Some home buyers have pet allergies and will reject a home without visiting it if they see evidence of pets.

  • Hide valuables and personal family photos in a safe place as photos will be on the internet and available to the public.

We photograph all finished rooms that are part of the main residence, in addition to the immediate front and back yard. We do not photograph the following areas unless you request it. Feel free to tuck away all clutter and knick knacks into drawers and closets for a clean home presentation in your photos.

*NOT PHOTOGRAPHED

  •  Closets, storage areas, or garages unless significantly sized or modified

  • Unfinished living space, basements, or attics

  • Secondary buildings, such as barns, pool houses, or living quarters that are not attached to the main residence

  • Outdoor features that are not immediately adjacent to the house

  • Neighborhood or building amenities, such as clubhouses, subdivision signs, or neighborhood pools