Photoshoot Checklist

My goal is to photograph your home with the highest quality that will wow buyers and attract offers. To ensure your photoshoot goes smoothly and safely, I’ve put together this preparation checklist of things you should do prior to your scheduled shoot.

General Prep:

  • Ensure Readiness: Clean and stage your home before my arrival, ideally the day before the photoshoot. While I may adjust small items for better composition, larger items and staging accessories should be in place beforehand.

  • Maintain Privacy: All occupants should avoid being visible during the shoot to prevent shadows, reflections, and equipment risks. Consider staying off the property or in unseen areas.

  • Utilize Garage for Storage: Use the garage to store items you prefer not to be photographed, as I typically do not include garage shots.

  • Secure Pets: For safety reasons and MLS compliance, please secure or remove pets from the property during the photoshoot. It's advisable to hide pet food and water bowls.

    Inside Prep:

  • Kitchen Decluttering: Keep a few items on the counters, but stow away dishes, sponges, and rags. Remove magnets, pictures, and rugs from the refrigerator and floor.

  • Bathroom Decluttering: Hide personal items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, and razors. Use decorative soaps, candles, or flowers instead. Remove all throw rugs.

  • Bedroom Preparation: Ensure beds are made and items are stored away.

  • Hide Trash Cans: Conceal trash cans in closets or the garage to avoid distractions.

  • Hide Portable Fans: Keep ceiling fans visible but hide portable fans to maintain a polished look.

  • Conceal Cords and Remotes: Hide TV remotes, game consoles, and cords for cleaner pictures.

  • Clear Entryways: Remove shoes, umbrellas, and similar items from entry points.

  • Open Blinds for Views: Showcase outdoor views or let in natural light, depending on the window's outlook.

  • Turn On Lights: Ensure all interior lights are on before my arrival and replace any burnt-out bulbs in advance.

  • Turn Off Ceiling Fans: Before the shoot, switch off all ceiling fans for better photo quality.

    Outside Prep:

  • Clear the driveway and street of any cars to allow for a clear view of your home. Avoid wetting the driveway as it can lead to uneven patches in the photoshoot and opt for creating a wet look during editing instead.

  • Hide trashcans and hoses to keep the focus on the property itself.

  • Ensure the yard is well-maintained by mowing and trimming it at least 24 hours before the shoot. Turn off sprinklers to prevent water puddles on the pavement, and don't forget to pick up any pet droppings in the yard.

  • If your property has a pool, spa, or water features, make sure they are clean and ready for display, removing covers and providing any necessary instructions to the realtor.

  • Remove any for-sale signs as visible signs can interfere with MLS policies.

  • Clean patio furniture by dusting and removing cobwebs. Avoid hosing down the furniture on the day of the shoot to prevent puddles. Following these outside prep tips will help showcase your property in the best possible light for potential buyers.


Twilight Shoot Preparation:

For those who have scheduled a twilight shoot, please note the additional steps to prepare before my arrival. Twilight shoots are time-sensitive to capture the perfect lighting, so ensure these tasks are completed beforehand:

  • Turn On All Lights: Turn on all interior and exterior lights throughout the property. Replace any burnt-out bulbs at least 24 hours prior to the photoshoot.

  • Prepare Spas: Remove spa covers and turn on both the spa and its lights before my arrival.

  • Illuminate Pool: If you have a pool, switch on the pool lights before I arrive to enhance the ambiance.

  • Activate Water Features: Turn on fountains, waterfalls, or similar water features to add a touch of elegance to your twilight photos.

Thank you for preparing ahead of time! If you have any questions or need more help, please feel free to contact me. I'm excited to capture stunning images of your home!