How to Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photo Shoot
A complete checklist to ensure your property looks perfect on camera and attracts more buyers.
Golden Ocean Team
Professional Photography Team
How to Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photo Shoot
Great real estate photography starts before the photographer arrives. Proper preparation can make the difference between photos that attract buyers and photos that get scrolled past. Here's your complete preparation checklist.
48 Hours Before the Shoot
Deep Clean Everything
Vacuum all floors and carpets
Mop hard surfaces until they shine
Clean all windows (inside and out)
Wipe down all surfaces
Clean mirrors and glass
Deep clean bathrooms and kitchen
Declutter Aggressively
Remove or minimize:
Personal photos and memorabilia
Excess furniture
Kitchen countertop appliances
Bathroom toiletries
Toys and pet items
Visible electronics and cords
24 Hours Before
Outdoor Preparation
Mow the lawn
Trim bushes and hedges
Remove garden hoses and tools
Clean the driveway and walkways
Hide trash bins
Add fresh flowers or plants (optional)
Interior Staging
Arrange furniture to maximize space
Add fresh flowers to key rooms
Set the dining table elegantly
Fluff pillows and fold throws
Make all beds with fresh linens
Add subtle decorative touches
Day of the Shoot
Final Touches (1 Hour Before)
Turn on all lights (yes, even during the day!)
Open all curtains and blinds
Adjust all lampshades straight
Close all toilet lids
Hide trash cans
Remove dish soap and sponges from sinks
Clear shower/tub areas
Vacuum one last time if needed
Temperature and Air
Set temperature to comfortable (68-72°F)
Turn off ceiling fans (they create motion blur)
Ensure no strong odors (good or bad)
Room-by-Room Checklist
Kitchen
Clear all countertops except decorative items
Clean and polish appliances
Remove dish towels and potholders
Empty the sink
Hide small appliances in cabinets
Add a bowl of fresh fruit (optional)
Bathrooms
Put away all personal items
Display fresh, white towels
Close toilet lids
Remove bath mats (photographers prefer the clean look)
Clear shower/tub completely
Bedrooms
Make beds perfectly
Remove excess pillows
Clear nightstands
Open closet doors slightly to show storage space
Remove visible clothing
Living Spaces
Arrange furniture for flow and space
Remove excess pillows and throws
Hide remote controls
Clear coffee tables
Organize bookshelves neatly
What to Avoid
❌ Don't leave pets in the home during the shoot
❌ Don't have people visible in photos
❌ Don't leave cars in the driveway (if possible)
❌ Don't forget to turn on fireplaces (if seasonal)
❌ Don't leave the TV on
The Professional Touch
While this checklist helps you prepare, remember that professional photographers from Golden Ocean also provide staging guidance during the shoot. We'll help adjust blinds, move furniture, and make final touches to ensure every shot is perfect.
Ready for Your Close-Up?
A well-prepared home photographs beautifully and sells faster. If you have questions about preparing for your shoot, our team is here to help.
