How to Prepare a Home for Real Estate Photos

Preparation makes a significant difference in listing photo quality. A well-prepped home photographs dramatically better than one that was not touched before the shoot. Here is a practical room-by-room guide.

General Prep

Turn on every light in the house — every room, every lamp, every under-cabinet fixture. Replace burnt-out bulbs before the shoot. Turn off all ceiling fans. Open every curtain and blind fully to maximize natural light.

Kitchen

Clear all countertops completely. Remove small appliances, dish racks, dish soap, and personal items. Clean the countertops and wipe down appliances. Remove magnets, photos, and clutter from the refrigerator.

Living Areas and Bedrooms

Fluff and arrange all pillows and cushions. Remove personal photos, toys, and anything that makes spaces feel small or lived-in. Make all beds neatly. Clear any clutter from visible surfaces.

Bathrooms

Close all toilet seats. Hang fresh, neatly folded towels. Clear bathroom counters of personal items — soap, toothbrushes, razors, and toiletries should be put away.

Exterior

Remove all vehicles from the driveway and in front of the home. Sweep the front porch and walkway. Trim any visible overgrown hedges or plants. Move trash cans out of sight. Secure or remove pets during the shoot.

Ino Imagery provides a pre-shoot checklist that Realtors can forward directly to homeowners. It covers every room and takes about 30 minutes to complete.