How to Prepare Your Home
for Real Estate Photography
Great photography starts before the camera comes out.
A clean, tidy and well-prepared property allows me to focus on capturing the space at its best. You don't need to make your home look like a showroom — a few simple preparations can make a big difference.
Here’s my checklist to help you get the most out of your photography session.
General
The goal isn't perfection — it's creating a clean, welcoming space where potential buyers or customers can imagine themselves living.
Declutter surfaces and remove personal items.
Hide shoes, clothes, toys, bins and cleaning products.
Straighten cushions, pillows and rugs.
Open curtains and blinds.
Clean windows and mirrors where possible.
Replace any blown light bulbs.
Living Areas
Give your living spaces a quick reset before I arrive:
Clear coffee tables and shelves.
Hide cables, remotes and everyday clutter.
Straighten cushions and throws.
Turn off TVs and screens.
Keep the room feeling natural. Don't over-style it.
Kitchen
The kitchen is often one of the most important spaces in a property.
Clear the benches and sink.
Put away small appliances and dishes.
Hide rubbish bins and cleaning products.
Give surfaces, sinks and appliances a quick clean.
Remove magnets and excessive items from the fridge.
Add a simple touch such as a bowl of fruit or flowers if it suits the property.
Bathrooms
A simple bathroom often photographs better than one filled with accessories.
Clear vanities and showers.
Put away toiletries and cleaning products.
Close toilet lids.
Clean mirrors and glass.
Hang fresh towels.
Outdoors
Don't forget the spaces outside — they can be a major selling point.
Mow the lawn and tidy gardens.
Clean patios, decks and outdoor furniture.
Hide bins, hoses, tools and other clutter.
Clean the pool if applicable.
Remove cars from the driveway where possible.
Cars & Parking
This gives the property and its architecture more visual space.
Move vehicles out of the driveway.
Park cars away from the main front facade.
Remove trailers, caravans and bikes from prominent areas.
Hide bins and other large objects.
One Last Walk-Through
Before I arrive, have a quick look around and make sure everything you'd normally want hidden is out of sight.
Don't worry about making everything perfect — I'll take care of the photography, composition and editing.
Your job is simply to give me a clean canvas to work with.