Preparing Your Home for a Real Estate Photoshoot: A Comprehensive Guide

Get Your Home Ready

• Final Touches: Complete all cleaning and staging well before the shoot. Arrange furniture and decor in advance, and make any minor adjustments to enhance photo composition as needed.
• Pet Management: For safety and compliance with MLS rules, please ensure pets are secured away from the property. This prevents distractions and keeps your space picture-perfect.
• Occupants: Plan for all residents to be away from the property or in areas not visible in the photos. This helps avoid shadows, reflections, and any potential risks to equipment.
• Garage Use: Utilize the garage for storing any items that you prefer not to be visible in the photos.

Exterior Preparation

• Vehicle Clearance: Remove all vehicles from the driveway and street to provide an unobstructed view of your home.
• Driveway Appearance: Avoid wetting driveways as it can create uneven patches. If a wet look is desired, we can handle this in post-production.
• Trash and Hoses: Keep trash cans and hoses out of sight by placing them in less visible areas like the garage or behind the property.
• Yard Maintenance: Ensure the lawn is freshly mowed and trimmed at least a day before the shoot. Turn off sprinklers and pick up any pet waste.
• Pool and Water Features: Clean pools and spas, and remove any covers. Ensure they are in working order and provide instructions if necessary.

Interior Details

• Kitchen and Bathroom Cleanup: Remove excess items from counters, hide personal hygiene products, and clear away throw rugs for a tidy appearance.
• Bedroom Organization: Make sure all beds are neatly made and personal items are put away.
• Hide Distractions: Conceal trash cans, portable fans, and visible cords or remotes to keep the focus on your property.
• Blinds and Lighting: Open blinds to let in natural light where the view is appealing. Ensure all lights are on and replace any burned-out bulbs.

Preparing for Twilight Photography

For twilight sessions, additional steps are needed:

• Lighting Setup: Ensure all interior and exterior lights are turned on before I arrive to capture the property in its best light.
• Water Features: Activate pool lights and any water features like fountains or waterfalls. Remove covers from spas and turn them on to enhance their appearance.

By following these preparation tips, you’ll help ensure that your property looks its best and stands out in the market. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me!