Congratulations on your new listing. Preparing a home for real estate photography requires careful attention to detail to ensure the property looks its best and photographs well. Here is a detailed guide based on key considerations for agents:
1. Declutter Key Areas
Focus on clearing spaces that tend to look cluttered and can distract from the home’s features. Prioritize kitchen counters, bathroom counters and shower areas, tops of bedroom dressers, and laundry rooms. These surfaces should be clear of personal items, kitchen appliances, toiletries, and laundry clutter.
2. Cleaning Tasks
Make sure to dust all surfaces and remove any general trash throughout the home. A spotless environment helps convey a sense of care and cleanliness, which can greatly enhance the appeal in photos.
3. Exterior Vehicle Removal
Remove cars, RVs, boats, and other vehicles from the driveway and yard if possible. Vehicles can restrict the photographer’s ability to find the best angles and compositions. Since the position of the sun cannot be changed, minimizing obstacles like vehicles is critical for maximizing photography options.
4. Outdoor Staging and Removal
Enhance curb appeal by removing or storing items such as garden hoses, trash cans, children’s toys, and excessive deck furniture. A tidy, spacious outdoor area presents better in photographs and makes the property feel more inviting.
5. Homeowner Presence
Homeowners should plan to be away during the photo shoot whenever possible, ideally for about two hours, though most shoots typically last less than 45 minutes. The absence helps the photographer work without distraction and capture the home without personal activity in the background.
6. Lighting Checks
Before the photographer arrives, check all light bulbs and fixtures. Replace burnt-out light bulbs and ensure every fixture is functioning properly. Good lighting improves photo quality and can highlight the home’s features effectively.
7. Quick Fixes and Last-Minute Details
If time is limited, moving light clutter from prominent areas (such as countertops) to less visible rooms can help reduce distractions. However, countertop clutter is difficult to manage quickly and does not photograph well, so thorough clearing beforehand is best.
8. Scheduling and Natural Light Optimization
Coordinate with the photographer to schedule the shoot during mid-morning or late afternoon. These times offer optimal natural light conditions. While midday shots can be challenging due to the contrast between outdoor and indoor light, skilled photographers can use bracketing techniques to balance exposure.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not leave clutter or personal photos on walls and surfaces. Remember the goal is to show the home in its best light and to allow potential buyers to envision themselves living there, rather than reminding them of current owners’ personal lives.
10. Ensuring Proper Lighting
Real estate agents should communicate with homeowners about lighting requirements before the shoot is scheduled and double-check again the day prior. Many professional photographers carry extra light bulbs and fixtures to address last-minute issues on site.
11. Additional Considerations
Remove old or worn window treatments if possible, as they can detract from the home’s appearance. Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during the shoot or inform the photographer so they can dress appropriately and remain focused on their work. If a drone will be used for aerial shots, confirm the photographer has a valid FAA Part 107 Drone License, as the FAA is strictly enforcing licensing requirements for commercial drone operations including real estate photography.
By following these steps carefully, homeowners and agents can ensure that the property is presented in the best possible way, helping to attract potential buyers and achieve successful marketing results.
Want to take it up a notch? Build and curate your own checklists to prep for a shoot. Pilots, medical personnel, engineers, and professionals in most technical fields use checklists all the time.
Kyle Lee is a Real Estate, Portrait, Product, and Landscape photographer based in the Midlands of South Carolina. To book a Real Estate session, just fill out the form below. I will get back to you quickly.