How to prep your listing for professional photography to get the best results

How to Prepare Your Space for Professional Real Estate Photography

Getting your property ready for professional real estate photography can make a significant difference in attracting buyers or renters. The goal is to create a clean, inviting, and clutter-free space that showcases your property at its best. Here’s how to make sure every corner of your space is picture-perfect. Stay tuned for the end where I include my downloadable checklist!

1. Deep Cleaning: The Essential First Step

A deep clean is the single most important thing you can do before a photography session. Think of it like spring cleaning—go beyond the usual touch-ups and tackle the hidden grime. Pay extra attention to:

• Baseboards, Floors, and Corners: Sweep, dust, mop, and vacuum every area. Dust buildup can be more noticeable on camera.

• Glass Surfaces: Streaks and dust on glass and windows show up easily on camera. A spotless, streak-free shine will make the space feel open and bright.

• Untouched Surfaces: Ceiling fans, stove tops, and tables can collect dust over time. These areas are emphasized on camera, so take care to clean them thoroughly.

Tip: If you have carpeting, consider scheduling a carpet cleaning 2-3 days before the photoshoot so the floors are dry and looking their best when the photographer arrives.

2. Outdoor Maintenance for Curb Appeal

First impressions start outside, so don’t forget the exterior. Make sure the yard and entryway look clean and welcoming by:

• Power Washing: Clean up siding, walkways, driveways, and any outdoor surfaces that may have accumulated dirt or grime.

• Yard and Lawn Care: A fresh mow, some weed-pulling, and a clean edge around paths can make the exterior look well-kept and appealing.

3. Organize and Declutter

An organized space not only looks better but also makes the rooms appear larger and more inviting. Go through cluttered spaces such as:

• Pantries, Linen Closets, and Utility Rooms: Tidy up these often-overlooked areas so they feel spacious and organized.

• Countertops and Surfaces: Reduce the number of items on kitchen counters, remove excess knickknacks, and store away pet or kids' items to create a streamlined look.

4. Check Lighting and Fixtures

Good lighting is key to high-quality photos. Go through each room and replace any blown or flickering bulbs. To create a cohesive look, consider using daylight-colored bulbs for consistency. Also:

• Uniform Lighting: Choosing the same color temperature across rooms helps create a clean, cohesive look in photos.

• Replace Broken Blinds: Ensure window fixtures are in good shape and allow natural light to fill the space.

5. Depersonalize for Broad Appeal

Buyers want to envision themselves in the home, so depersonalizing is crucial. Take down personal photos, risqué artwork, and highly personal or unique decor. Remove items such as:

• Family Photos and Kids' Artwork: Make walls feel like a blank canvas for prospective buyers.

• Knickknacks and Excess Decor: Aim for a tidy, neutral look that helps buyers focus on the home itself, rather than its current occupants.

6. Don’t Forget the Closets

While some photographers avoid closets, others will photograph walk-in closets and larger spaces. Clear out walk-in closets if possible, as storage space is a major consideration for many buyers. If you're actively using closets for storage, consider asking your photographer to skip photographing those spaces.

7. Tidy Up Cords and Wires

Visible cords can distract from a clean, polished look in photos. Before your photographer arrives:

• Tuck Away Cords: Use tape, clips, or cable ties to neatly secure cords behind furniture or along baseboards.

• Hide Electronics: Minimize visible wires from items like chargers, TVs, gaming systems, and desk setups.

• Check Key Areas: Pay attention to cords in living rooms, offices, kitchens, and bedrooms where electronics are commonly used.

This simple step helps create a sleek, uncluttered aesthetic that makes your property shine. While some cords may be able to be removed in editing, more editing will always amount to more photo distortion. It’s highly recommended to have cords hidden or tucked away to avoid unnecessary editing.

Final Touches: A Last Step Toward Picture-Perfect

Once your space is clean, decluttered, and depersonalized, it’s almost ready for photos. Any additional final touches—like staging fresh flowers, fluffing pillows, or setting out neatly arranged decor—will help make your listing more attractive. High-quality, professional images are a powerful tool in turning online viewers into serious buyers, so make each one count!

We know this is a lot to take in, so I’ve created a streamlined checklist that you can download for FREE here!

Ready for your open house? Check back for our upcoming post on how to prepare for your next open house to wow potential buyers! xoxo Madison