How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography

When it comes to selling a property, first impressions matter. In today’s digital world, most potential buyers begin their search online, and professional real estate photography can make all the difference in attracting interest. To ensure your home looks its absolute best in photos, proper preparation is key. Follow this guide to get your property camera-ready and make it stand out to potential buyers.

Preparing a Home for Photography

1. Prepare Your Home by Decluttering and Depersonalizing

Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home, so it’s important to create a neutral, inviting space. Here’s how to declutter and depersonalize effectively:

• Clear surfaces: Remove items like kitchen appliances, toiletries, and paperwork from counters and tables.

• Tidy up shelves: Organize books and remove personal items such as family photos or unique collectibles.

• Minimize furniture: Keep only essential furniture to make rooms feel spacious.

2. Deep Clean Every Room

A clean home photographs better. Take the time to:

• Clean windows: Sparkling windows let in more light and provide clearer views.

• Vacuum and mop floors: Clean floors make a home look well-maintained.

• Dust everything: Pay attention to light fixtures, baseboards, and ceiling fans.

3. Maximize Natural Light

Natural light is one of the most important factors in real estate photography. Bright, airy spaces are more appealing to buyers. To maximize light:

• Open all curtains and blinds.

• Replace burnt-out lightbulbs with bright, daylight bulbs.

• Turn on all lights, including lamps and under-cabinet lighting.

4. Stage the Home

Staging helps create an inviting atmosphere and highlights the home’s best features:

• Add fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit to the kitchen or dining area.

• Use neutral-colored bedding and throw pillows in the bedrooms.

• Arrange furniture to create open, walkable spaces.

5. Don’t Forget the Exterior

Curb appeal is just as important as interior photos. Prepare the exterior by:

• Mowing the lawn and trimming bushes.

• Power-washing driveways, sidewalks, and siding if necessary.

• Removing clutter like garden tools, hoses, and trash bins.

• Arranging patio furniture to create an inviting outdoor space.

6. Secure Pets and Personal Belongings

Pets can be adorable, but they can also be a distraction in photos. For the best results:

• Remove pet beds, toys, and food bowls.

• Keep pets out of sight or secure them in a separate area during the photoshoot.

• Safeguard valuables and personal items to ensure nothing gets misplaced.

7. Prepare for Specific Rooms

Different areas of the home require unique touches:

• Kitchen: Clear countertops, hide trash cans, and add a small decorative item like a vase or cutting board.

• Living Room: Arrange furniture neatly, fluff cushions, and hide cables or remotes.

• Bathrooms: Close toilet lids, hang fresh towels, and remove toiletries from the sink and shower.

• Bedrooms: Make the beds with clean, neutral linens and clear nightstands.

8. Be Ready on the Day of the Photoshoot

On the day of the shoot:

• Complete all preparations ahead of time.

• Ensure the home is quiet and distraction-free.

• Leave the home, if possible, or limit the number of people present to avoid interruptions.

Final Thoughts

Proper preparation ensures your real estate photos will showcase your home in the best possible light. By following these tips, you’ll create a clean, welcoming, and visually appealing space that will attract more buyers and help your property stand out in a competitive market.

Need help getting started or have more questions about real estate photography?

Contact us today, and we’ll guide you through the process!