Pre-Photography Checklist

In real estate photography, a clean and clutter-free home is truly transformative—it sets the perfect stage for telling a beautiful story. We understand that first impressions are everything, especially when it comes to selling a property. A well-prepared home not only looks its best but also creates an inviting atmosphere that resonates with buyers. Taking the time to prepare your home for its close-up can make all the difference in attracting attention and achieving a successful sale.

Exterior: Remove these:

  • Cars, Boats or other vehicles

  • Trashcans

  • Children’s Toys

  • Holiday Decor

  • Lawn and Garden Tools

  • Rolling Basketball Hoops

Living Room: Remove these:

  • Clutter from tables

  • Easily moveable family photographs

  • Holiday Decor

  • Children’s Toys/Video Games

  • Tv Remote Controls

  • Excess Furniture

Kitchen: Remove these:

  • Clutter from countertops

  • Items on refrigerator doors

  • Small appliances (blenders, etc)

  • Hanging dish towels

  • Sponges, gloves and dish soaps

  • Paper towel rolls and rags

Bathrooms: Remove these:

  • Clutter from the countertops

  • Soap, shampoo, etc from shower

  • Toilet paper

  • Excess towels

  • Dirty linens

  • Plunger, toilet, brush, etc.

Bedrooms: Remove these:

  • Clutter from nighstands

  • Family photographs

  • Children’s toys

  • Trash cans and hampers

  • Clothing and shoes

  • Excess furniture

Exterior: Make Sure to do these:

  • Remove cover from BBQ

  • Test all lightbulbs

  • Mow the lawn

  • Trim bushes, hedges, etc.

  • Rake fallen leaves

  • Place cushions on furniture

Living Room: Make Sure to do these:

  • Arrange pillows and cushions

  • Fold and drape any blankets

  • Small room: remove table leaf

  • Large room: add table leaf

  • Open blinds and curtains

  • Test/replace light bulbs (matching if possible)

Kitchen: Make sure:

  • Wipe down appliances

  • Test all lightbulbs

  • Open blinds and curtains

  • Put away food

  • Hide trash can

  • Clean the sink

Bathroom: Make sure to do these:

  • Put toilet lids down

  • Test all lightbulbs

  • Open blinds and curtains

  • Clean the shower

  • Clean the mirrors

  • Clean the sinks

Bedrooms: Make sure to do these:

  • Make the bed

  • Fluff decorative pillows

  • Open blinds and curtains

  • Hide jewlery boxes

  • Test all lightbulbs

  • Vacuum

Don’t forget the details!

Turn on all lights, including lamps and ceiling fixtures, to brighten each space, and switch off ceiling fans to avoid distractions in photos. Remove all pet-related items, using the garage or another out-of-sight area for temporary storage. To create a neutral environment, temporarily take down any religious or political artifacts. Minimize or store personal collections such as figurines, sports memorabilia, or hobby items to keep the focus on the home. Move pet beds, blankets, and hide food and water bowls during the shoot to maintain a clean, organized appearance. Stow away pet toys, leashes, and accessories to reduce visual clutter. Thoroughly vacuum carpets and upholstery, mop floors, and remove pet hair and stains. Secure pet enclosures, and clean and temporarily conceal litter boxes to ensure a fresh, odor-free environment.