Photoshoot prep checklist

prepping a picture perfect home

The best photos capture clean, open spaces that let the home’s features shine. Our goal is to remove visual distractions - if it’s not part of the home, chances are it probably shouldn’t be in the photo.

To help you get ready, we’ve outlined clear, easy steps for preparing each area of your home. By following this guide, you'll ensure everything is camera-ready, so we can focus on producing images that help your listings stand out.

Modern living room with a light gray sofa, colorful striped pillows, black accent wall with abstract art, and windows showing a wooded view. Features brown round ottomans, a wooden side table with a candle, and built-in shelves.

living areas

keep it simple & inviting

  • Declutter: Store remotes, toys, books, and personal photos.

  • Furniture: Arrange neatly to highlight space and flow.

  • Floors: Vacuum or sweep thoroughly.

  • Rugs: Consider replacing or removing overly busy/loud pattern rugs.

  • Shelves: Minimize decor to avoid clutter.

  • Lighting: Turn on all lights and ensure bulbs are working.

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, wood accents, and black pendant lights over a white island with four wooden stools.

kitchen & dining

clean & clear surfaces

  • Countertops: Remove all gadgets & appliances, clear clutter, clean surfaces.

  • Cabinets: Close doors and organize visible spaces. Remove any hand towels.

  • Fridge: Remove magnets, notes, and photos.

  • Tables: Consider setting the table (non-formal) or adding a simple decorative item.

  • Floors: Sweep and mop to ensure they’re spotless.

  • Trash: Empty bins and hide them from view.

  • Lighting: Ensure all lights are on and bulbs are working.

Cozy bedroom with plaid bedspread, wooden furniture, ceiling fan, and wall decorations.

bedrooms

calm & tidy spaces

  • Beds: Make beds with clean linens and arrange pillows neatly.

  • Nightstands: Clear personal items like alarms, chargers, and tissues.

  • Closets: Close doors; if open, ensure everything is tidy.

  • Toys: Store or organize children’s toys.

  • Floors: Sweep or vacuum thoroughly.

  • Lighting: Turn on lamps and check that all bulbs are working.

Modern bathroom with white and dark gray color scheme, featuring a walk-in shower with rain showerhead, freestanding toilet, wooden vanity with built-in sink, and open shelving.

bathrooms

fresh & spotless

  • Counters: Wipe down all surfaces and remove toiletries.

  • Shower/Tub: Remove shampoo bottles, soap, stools, and bath toys.

  • Towels: Remove for the cleanest look.

  • Rugs: Remove bath mats for an unobstructed view of floor.

  • Toilets: Close the lid. Tidy up toilet paper roll.

  • Floors: Mop and sweep for a polished finish.

  • Lighting: Ensure all lights are on and bulbs are working.

Modern white house with large windows and patio in a garden setting at dusk.

outdoor spaces

neat & welcoming

  • Furniture: Arrange seating and open umbrellas if available.

  • Lawn: Mow if needed and sweep pathways and decks.

  • Hoses: Roll up and store neatly.

  • Trash: Move bins out of sight (garage works best).

  • Lighting: Turn on exterior lights and replace any burned-out bulbs.

Suburban house with brick and siding exterior, manicured lawn, bushes, and blue sky.

final touches

ready for the camera

  • Blinds: Open to let in natural light.

  • Ceiling Fans: Turn off to prevent blur.

  • Driveway: Clear cars/trailers/rvs and avoid parking in front of the home.

  • Storage: Use closets, garages, or under beds to hide any last-minute clutter.

  • Lighting: Do a final check - make sure every light is on, and no bulbs are out.

Download this checklist as a handy PDF