How to Prepare Your Home for a Professional Photo Shoot
Category Seller Advice
First impressions matter, especially in real estate. Whether a potential buyer sees your home online or in person, the first few seconds shape their opinion. Well-presented listing photos can attract more interest, increase enquiries, and ultimately lead to a faster sale - sometimes even before a showday takes place!
Make Your Listing Stand Out with High-Quality Photos
A professional real estate photographer will know how to capture your home in the best light, but your preparation makes all the difference. Follow these simple but effective steps to ensure your home looks its best on camera.
Declutter and Depersonalise
Your home carries your stamp of personality, but when it comes to making a space inviting to an outsider, a clean, uncluttered space looks larger and more inviting in photographs. Take a few moments to remove:
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Personal items such as family photos, personal documents, and valuables.
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Unnecessary items on kitchen counters, leaving only one or two stylish appliances.
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Toiletries, toothbrushes, and bath items, like sponges, facecloths and bottle collections from bathrooms.
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Fridge magnets, papers, and anything stuck to the refrigerator.
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Excess decorations or accessories that may make the space feel crowded.
A neutral, well-organised home allows buyers to focus on the space itself, without being distracted by your personal belongings.
Enhance Central Living Spaces
Small touches can make a big difference in how your home feels in photos. Consider:
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Placing a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter.
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Arranging a vase of flowers on the dining table.
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Setting the dining table with elegant place settings, napkins, and candles.
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Organising patio furniture neatly, with extra cushions for a welcoming feel.
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Turning on water fountains, fireplaces, and other features that add charm.
These finishing touches help create a warm, inviting atmosphere that buyers will remember.
Read more: Getting your home ready for a showday or open hour
Prepare Your Garden and Outdoor Areas
Outdoor spaces play a crucial role in selling a home. Before the photo shoot:
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Mow the lawn and tidy flower beds to enhance visual appeal.
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Remove pool covers and automatic pool cleaners, ensuring the water is clean and clear.
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Hide bins, hoses, garden tools, and your pets' paraphernalia out of sight.
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Arrange patio furniture neatly, and consider adding a tablecloth or striking outdoor decor.
A well-maintained exterior makes a strong first impression and sets the right tone for the rest of the home.
Lighting and Ambience Matter
Lighting can make or break a real estate photo. To create a bright and welcoming setting:
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Turn on all interior lights, including lamps and overhead fixtures.
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Ensure all light bulbs are working and consistent in colour or warmth.
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Raise blinds and open curtains to maximise natural light.
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Switch off ceiling fans - motion blur in images is very bewildering to look at!
A well-lit home feels spacious and inviting, and is more likely to encourage buyers to explore further.
Read more: Seller advice: Tips for keeping your home show-ready
Final Checklist for a Picture-Perfect Home
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Remove cars from the driveway and park them out of sight.
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Put pet items such as food bowls, beds, and litter boxes in a cupboard until the shoot is over.
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Hide or pack away loose cables, chargers, and remote controls.
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Bathroom counters should be clear (and clean), and toilet seats should be down.
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Watch out when hiding items under beds, as they may still be visible in photos.
With these simple but effective preparations, you can almost guarantee that your photos will showcase your home looking its very best.
Thinking of selling? Speak to a Chas Everitt agent to find out how to maximise your home's appeal in today's market.
Author: Chas Everitt