How to prep a listing for its photo shoot

Buyers scroll a listing in seconds, and the camera sees every room at once. The homes that photograph best are the ones where someone spent an afternoon getting ready.

Send this list to your sellers when you book. None of it needs a stager or a budget.

Turn on every light

Switch on the lights in every room, lamps and pendants included, for bright and even light. Replace any bulb that’s burnt out before the day.

Clean and clear every surface

Clean the floors, the counters and the windows. Then clear each room of the small things: papers, toys and extra decor go in a cupboard for the shoot.

Open the blinds, and stop the fans

Open every blind and curtain to let the daylight in. Turn the ceiling fans off, so every photo stays sharp and still.

The homes that photograph best are the ones where someone spent an afternoon getting ready.

On the day: an empty home and a clear drive

Please have the home empty while we shoot, so we can work quickly and keep every frame clean. Move every car out of the driveway and away from the front of the house. Questions are welcome before or after the shoot; while the photographer works, we keep conversation to a minimum so the session stays on schedule.

Getting ready for your shoot

Room by room, the short version to send your sellers.

Living room

• Straighten the pillows and cushions on sofas and chairs.
• Put away remotes, magazines and other small items.
• Hide the cords and wires from the electronics.

Kitchen

• Clear the counters of small appliances, dishes and clutter.
• Wipe down the surfaces and the stainless steel.
• Take the magnets, photos and notes off the fridge.
• Leave the sink clean and empty.

Bedrooms

• Make every bed neatly, with smooth bedding.
• Clear the nightstands and dressers.
• Put shoes, clothes and accessories out of sight.

Bathrooms

• Clean the mirrors, counters, sinks and toilets.
• Put away toiletries, toothbrushes and personal items.
• Hang fresh towels and take up the bath mats.
• Close the toilet lids and empty the bins.

Dining room

• Clear the table and line up the chairs.
• A simple, elegant place setting is a nice touch.
• Dust the light fixtures.

Outside

• Mow the lawn, trim the bushes and clear any yard debris.
• Sweep the driveway, walks and patio.
• Put bins, hoses and outdoor tools out of view.
• Clean the pool and the outdoor furniture.