The night before / morning of your shoot, run through this so every room photographs its best. Lights on, clutter gone, surfaces clear.
Whole house
- Turn ON every light and lamp, and replace any burnt-out bulbs
- Open all blinds and curtains for natural light
- Turn OFF all ceiling fans and TVs (a still fan photographs better)
- Tidy and remove clutter from floors, tables, and countertops
- Put away personal items — family photos, mail, paperwork, keys
- Hide cords, chargers, and remotes
- Empty and hide trash and recycling bins
Kitchen
- Clear the counters — small appliances, dish racks, sponges, soap
- Remove magnets, photos, and papers from the fridge
- Clean the sink and put dishes away
- Take down towels hanging on the oven and handles
Bathrooms
- Clear counters of toiletries, toothbrushes, and soap
- Remove shampoo and bottles from showers and tubs
- Put toilet lids DOWN
- Hang fresh towels neatly (or remove them)
Bedrooms
- Make the beds with neat, matching bedding
- Clear nightstands and dressers
- Pick up shoes, laundry, and floor clutter
Living areas
- Fluff and straighten couch pillows, fold throw blankets
- Clear coffee and side tables
- Straighten shelves and decor
Outside
- Mow and tidy the yard; sweep the porch and entry
- Move all cars out of the driveway and away from the front
- Hide hoses, garbage cans, and toys
Pets & people
- Plan for pets to be crated or off-site, and hide bowls, beds, and litter boxes
- Have everyone step out of the rooms being photographed
Please have everything finished BEFORE the photographer arrives — shoot time is for shooting, not last-minute tidying. Thank you!
Questions? Reach out to your realtor, or Homestead Studios at
ledger@homesteadstudios.info.