Prep Guide
How to get a home ready for photos. Agents, feel free to send this to your sellers.
The day before is the time to do this. On shoot day, plan for the house to be photo-ready when I arrive. Print this checklist
Whole house
- Every light on, including lamps and under-cabinet lights
- Blinds open, curtains tied back evenly
- Ceiling fans off
- TVs off
- Personal photos, mail and paperwork put away
- Pets, bowls, beds and litter boxes out of sight
Outside
- Cars out of the driveway and off the street in front
- Trash cans, hoses and toys put away
- Lawn mowed, leaves raked, walkway clear
- Garage doors closed
- Pool covered or cleaned, patio furniture set up
Kitchen
- Counters cleared except one or two decor pieces
- Fridge fronts cleared of magnets and papers
- Dish towels, sponges and soap put away
- Sink empty, dishwasher closed
Bathrooms
- Toilet lids down
- Counters and tub ledges cleared
- Fresh matching towels, folded
- Bath mats and plungers put away
Bedrooms
- Beds made, pillows fluffed
- Nightstands cleared
- Clothes and laundry baskets put away
- Closet doors closed
Living areas
- Remotes, chargers and cords hidden
- Cushions straightened, throws folded
- Floors clear, rugs straight
- Fireplace clean (we add fire in editing)
Shoot day
- Homeowners are welcome to step out. It usually goes faster.
- Leave any rooms you don't want photographed closed and let me know.
- Drone flies weather permitting. If it's too windy or wet, we'll come back for exteriors.
- Twilight shoots start around sunset. Leave every light on inside and out.
Don't stress the small stuff
Sky replacement, fire in the fireplace, TV fill and basic object removal are included in editing. Clutter is the one thing editing can't fix well.