Client preparation guide
Photoshoot
Ready Guide
A bright, distraction-free home helps buyers focus on the space. Use this checklist before your photographer arrives.
Start here
Four essentials.
01Clear
Counters, floors and furniture.
02Depersonalize
Photos, mail and valuables.
03Open
Curtains, blinds and shades.
04Brighten
Turn on every light.
Clutter · personal photos · closed blinds · visible bags
Open window treatments · clear surfaces · neutral details
Preparation timeline
Prep in two passes.
Complete the first pass early, then do one final walk-through.
01The day before
Clean, simplify and depersonalize.
- Remove clutter and personal items from view.
- Clean glass, mirrors, counters, sinks and floors.
- Make beds; straighten pillows, towels and rugs.
- Hide bins, cords, pet supplies, toiletries and mail.
02Just before we arrive
Brighten the home and clear the scene.
- Open every curtain, blind and shade fully.
- Turn on all interior and exterior lights.
- Switch off ceiling fans, TVs and monitors.
- Move vehicles, people and pets out of view.
Room by room
Inside the home.
1Kitchen
Think: clean counters and simple styling.
- Clear counters; keep only 1-2 intentional items.
- Hide dishes, drying racks, soap and bins.
- Remove magnets, notes and pet bowls.
- Close cabinets and pantry doors.
2Living + dining
Think: open, balanced and inviting.
- Remove remotes, cords, toys and excess decor.
- Straighten cushions, rugs and table settings.
- Hide personal photos and sensitive documents.
- Open curtains and blinds; turn on every lamp.
3Bedrooms + baths
Think: hotel-clean and personal-item-free.
- Make beds and smooth all bedding.
- Clear dressers, sinks and showers.
- Hide toiletries, medications and valuables.
- Close toilet lids and hang fresh, matching towels.
4Exterior + entry
Think: welcoming from the curb.
- Move cars, bins, hoses, tools and seasonal items.
- Sweep walkways and remove visible debris.
- Store toys and remove pet waste.
- Unlock gates and turn on exterior lights.
Final walk-through
Take five minutes before we arrive.
The home is photo ready when...
- SurfacesClear
- Personal itemsHidden
- Curtains + blindsOpen
- LightsOn
- Fans + screensOff
The property is photographed as presented when the photographer arrives.
Your listing, next
Ready for your shoot?
Once the home is prepared, reserve your appointment online.