Preparing Your Home for a Photo Shoot

Having professional real estate photography of your property is essential to capturing the attention of potential buyers. Whether you’re selling a home, looking for a tenant, or trying to attract guests to stay at your vacation property, the photos of your home will be the first impression made.

Here are some Tips to Ensure your Home is ready for a Professional PhotoShoot:

1. Clear the Clutter – Remove any unnecessary items from the area and focus on the features that make your home unique. Put away toys, books, clothing, and other items that could be distracting.

2. Clean Up – Clean the area thoroughly and remove any dust, dirt, and pet hair. Wipe down all surfaces, vacuum carpets, mop floors, and make sure all windows are spotless.

3. Remove Personal Items – Take down family photos, diplomas, diplomas, and other items that are specific to your family. Potential buyers want to be able to imagine themselves living in the home and these items may make it difficult for them to do so.

4. Take Out the Trash – Make sure all visible garbage cans, recycling bins, and other waste receptacles are removed from the photo.

5. Remove Cars – Move any cars that are parked in the driveway or in front of the home. You want the focus to be on the house, not the vehicles.

6. Rearrange Furniture – Rearrange furniture to make the area look larger and more open. Move chairs and couches away from walls, and make sure beds are made and all pillows are perfectly arranged.

7. Enhance Lighting – Open curtains and blinds to allow natural light to enter the room. If necessary, add additional lighting such as lamps and overhead lights.

8. Create a Focal Point – Have a focal point in each room that will draw the eye of potential buyers. This could be a fireplace, a large window, or a piece of furniture.

9. Hide Appliances – Hide any kitchen appliances and other items that may be visible in the photo.

10. Add Greenery – Add house plants and other natural elements to add life to the photo.

11. Accessorize – Add pillows, blankets, and other accessories to the room to make it look more inviting.

12. Add Mirrors – Place mirrors strategically to add depth and dimension to the room.

13. Clear Countertops – Remove any items on countertops and in cabinets. Potential buyers want to be able to see the space and not be distracted by your personal items.

14. Stage the Room – Have an interior designer stage the room to make it look more attractive.

15. Fix Lighting Fixtures – Replace any burned out lightbulbs and ensure all fixtures are in working order.

16. Add Fresh Flowers – Place fresh flowers in a vase to add a touch of elegance to the photo.

17. Clean the Floors – Make sure all floors are clean and free of dirt and debris.

18. Take Down Artwork – Remove any artwork that is too personal or distracting.

19. Refresh Paint – Touch up any areas of the wall that may need it.

20. Check the Exterior – Make sure the lawn is mowed and the exterior of the home is free of debris.