A little preparation goes a long way. The difference between a good real estate photo and a great one often comes down to what happens before the photographer arrives. Follow this room-by-room guide to make sure your listing looks its absolute best on camera.

The Day Before the Shoot

Start preparing at least 24 hours in advance. Deep cleaning is essential,surfaces should gleam, floors should shine, and every room should feel fresh and inviting.

  • Declutter every surface. Remove mail, magazines, personal items, and anything that creates visual noise. Less is always more in real estate photography.
  • Clean windows inside and out. Natural light is your best friend on camera, and dirty windows kill it.
  • Replace any burnt-out light bulbs. Consistent lighting across rooms makes a home feel warm and well-maintained.

Kitchen

The kitchen is often the most photographed room in the house,and the one buyers scrutinize most closely.

  • Clear all countertops. Remove appliances, dish racks, soap dispensers, and paper towel holders.
  • Clean the stovetop, backsplash, and sink until they sparkle.
  • Add one simple styling element: a bowl of fresh fruit, a small plant, or a cookbook propped open.
  • Hide trash cans and dish towels.

Living Areas

Living rooms and family rooms should feel spacious, comfortable, and aspirational.

  • Fluff and arrange pillows symmetrically.
  • Remove personal photos from shelves and walls. Buyers need to envision themselves in the space.
  • Turn on all lamps,even during daytime shoots, layered lighting adds warmth.
  • Straighten rugs, align furniture, and remove any pet items.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms should evoke calm and relaxation.

  • Make beds with fresh, neutral-toned linens. White or light gray photographs beautifully.
  • Clear nightstands of everything except a lamp and perhaps one decorative item.
  • Open curtains and blinds to maximize natural light.
  • Close closet doors.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms can make or break a buyer’s impression. They should feel clean and spa-like.

  • Remove all personal products from counters, showers, and tubs.
  • Hang fresh, matching towels,white always works best.
  • Close toilet lids.
  • Clean mirrors until they’re spotless.

Exterior

First impressions start at the curb.

  • Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and edge walkways.
  • Clear the driveway and move cars out of the frame.
  • Add a fresh doormat and a potted plant to the front entrance.
  • Turn on exterior lights if it’s a twilight shoot.
  • Clean and stage the patio or deck with simple outdoor furniture.

Final Walkthrough

Do a final walkthrough 30 minutes before the photographer arrives:

  • Turn on every light in the house.
  • Open all blinds and curtains.
  • Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature (photographers work better when comfortable too).
  • Remove pets and pet accessories.
  • Take one last look at each room from the doorway,that’s the angle the camera will capture first.

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