How to Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photoshoot
The way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Tips from Behind the Lens to Help Your Listing Shine
Getting your home ready for a real estate photoshoot is kind of like getting ready for a first date... you want to make a great impression. As a real estate photographer, I’ve seen how small tweaks and thoughtful prep can take a home from nice to wow on camera. Whether you’re a homeowner selling your place or a realtor helping your clients get market-ready, this guide is here to help.
Let’s walk through a few key things you can do to make sure your space is photo-ready and irresistible to buyers scrolling through listings.
1. Declutter and Depersonalize
Before we even talk lighting or angles, let’s start with the basics. Clear countertops, tidy shelves, and minimal decor help buyers focus on the home itself... not your collection of travel magnets or family portraits.
The goal is to create a space that feels open, calm, and easy to imagine living in. Remove personal photos, excessive knick-knacks, piles of mail, and yes... even that adorable pet bed. Less is more when it comes to real estate photography.
2. Let There Be Light
Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in photography. Natural light is your best friend... open those curtains wide and let the sunshine in. If a room doesn’t get much daylight, turn on all overhead lights and lamps to brighten things up.
Avoid mixing warm and cool lighting if possible... it can throw off the mood and create strange color casts in photos. As your photographer, I’ll bring extra gear to help balance the lighting, but starting with a well-lit space is a huge plus.
3. Stage It Like You Mean It
Staging isn’t just for fancy listings. Even a simple setup can completely change how a room feels in a photo.
Living room: Fluff the pillows, fold the throw blankets neatly, and clear away remotes or clutter.
Kitchen: Hide dish soap, sponges, and paper towels... and leave just a few stylish items like a bowl of fruit or a plant.
Bedrooms: Make the beds like you’re expecting a guest... wrinkle-free sheets and all. Tuck away clothes, chargers, and anything that distracts from the calm vibe.
Bathrooms: Clear countertops, neatly fold towels, and hide any personal hygiene items. A little greenery or a candle adds a nice touch.
4. Hide What You Can’t Fix
We’re not trying to hide flaws dishonestly... but we also don’t want the eye to get stuck on visual noise. Extension cords, pet bowls, trash cans, and laundry hampers should all be tucked away.
Small changes make a big difference... like swapping a busy rug for a neutral one or hiding cleaning supplies that accidentally got left out.
5. Don’t Forget the Outside
Curb appeal isn’t just a real estate buzzword... it’s the first photo most buyers see. A tidy yard and welcoming porch can set the tone for the whole listing.
Mow the lawn and trim any overgrown plants.
Sweep the porch and remove cobwebs or leaves.
Hide garden hoses and trash bins.
Add a fresh welcome mat or seasonal wreath if you want to boost that warm, inviting feeling.
Preparing your home for a photoshoot doesn’t have to be overwhelming... a little effort goes a long way. My job as your photographer is to capture your space at its best, but your prep work sets the foundation for those frame-worthy shots. If you’re unsure about something, don’t stress... I always do a quick walk-through before we start shooting and can help move things around as needed. Teamwork makes the dream work, right?
Ready to make your listing shine? Let’s get your space camera-ready and show potential buyers just how beautiful your home really is.
