How to Prepare a House for Photography
Images are only half the story. Setting the scene before we arrive helps to create fantastic pictures in a timely fashion. Staging is highly important to us and here are a few tips that can help showcase your listing at its very best. In this guide you will learn how to prepare for a photo shoot for you listing, hotel, AirBnB and much more.
Please read all the way through, doing so and preparing will speed up the shoot and make the images look fantastic. You may need a quick trip to the hardware store before we come but its well worth it.
If you are booking as an agent or broker feel free to pass this information onto your clients. If you are a FSBO (for sale by owner) then please read in detail and complete as much as you can before our arrival.
So let’s get ready to shoot!
Interior Tips:
Turn on all lights and replace burned out bulbs.
Replace all bulbs with daylight balanced bulbs for a cooler look.
Lower blinds and keep them open.
If the windows have curtains, open them.
Vacuum carpets and clean tile/wood floors.
Fluff and straighten pillows on sofas and chairs.
Turn off televisions, computers, and all fans.
Unplug and hide all non-essential electrical cords.
Confirm all windows and mirrors are clean and streak free.
Make sure beds are made and are clean.
Close toilet lid and fold all towels in bathrooms.
Close shower door or curtain.
Remove and hide all toiletries, bar soaps, shampoos, etc.
Remove kitchen and bath mats.
Clean off counter tops in bathrooms and kitchen.
Place a bowl of fruit on the kitchen table or counter to add color.
Make sure dining room table and chairs are clean and straight.
Remove any clutter from exterior of refrigerator.
De-clutter the home by removing cleaning supplies, magazines, toys, etc.
Exterior Tips:
Cars need to be in the garage with doors closed.
No cars parked in driveway or front of the house.
Clean and sweep driveways, sidewalks and patios.
Hide trash cans, lawn and garden tools, etc..
Mow the yard and remove all lawn debris.
Disconnect and hide lawn hoses, if possible.
Remove all flags, hanging ornaments and home security signs.
Trim bushes, trees and plants to allow a clear view of the property.
Enhance curb appeal with landscaping and/or flowers.
Put patio umbrellas up and remove BBQ grill covers.
Clean swimming pool and put away cleaning equipment.
Close all windows and lower blinds to the same height.
For Best Results:
Please have your home cleaned, prepped and staged prior to your shoot.
If you prefer not to have “color cast” from interior lights, turn them off.
Do not hold an “Open House” during your photo shoot.
Please communicate any special requests prior to your appointment.
Do not schedule any other workers at the same time of your shoot.
Arrive early for your appointment to make sure the home is in order.
For improved color accuracy, please turn off interior lights.
For optimum brightness & color accuracy, we recommend our interior lighting upgrade.