Pre-Session Checklist

Before the photographer shows up, make sure to follow this thorough pre-session checklist. This will help ensure a smooth, efficient, and visually impressive photography session.

Exterior

1. Clear the Path: Remove vehicles from the driveway and keep them away from the front of the home to showcase its façade prominently.
2. Hide Unnecessary Items: Place trash cans and anything not attached to the home out of sight.
3. Landscaping Matters: Cut, rake, water the grass, and eliminate any unsightly weeds or vegetation.
4. Crystal Clear Views: Clean windows to ensure they sparkle in the photographs.
5. Deck and Patio Appeal: Organize deck furniture, uncover the grill, open the patio umbrella, and create an inviting outdoor space.
6. Driveway Maintenance: Sweep or pressure wash the driveway if necessary for a pristine look.
7. De-Clutter the Yard: Ensure the yard is free of kids’ toys, evidence of pets, and unnecessary clutter.

Interior

General

1. Brighten Up: Replace any burnt lightbulbs and ensure all bulbs emit the same color temperature.
2. Declutter for Impact: Remove as much clutter as possible, focusing on personal belongings not included in the sale.
3. Flooring Visibility: Put away unsightly door mats and remove area rugs that may hide attractive flooring.
4. Pet-Free Zone: Crate/hide pets (move to garage or basement)
5. Maximize Natural Light: Open blinds, remove fixed window coverings blocking natural light, and turn off electronic screens.
6. Cord Control: Conceal power cords and unplug if necessary (except for lights).
7. Tidy Up: Put away shoes, make beds, straighten picture frames, organize pillows, and ensure a neat and tidy appearance.
8. Under-Bed Clutter: Avoid hiding items under beds or furniture.
9. Privacy Matters: Remove any personal information not suitable for online visibility.

Kitchen

1. Clear Countertops: Keep countertops free of clutter, allowing a few small appliances, fruit bowls, and plants.
2. Fridge Presentation: Clear the fridge completely, removing magnets, photos, lists, and any other items.
3. Appliance Shine: Clean appliances thoroughly, removing fingerprints and smudges.
4. Trash Can Away: Put the trash can away for a clean and streamlined look.
5. Sink Perfection: Ensure the sink is clean and free of dishes.
6. Remove Clutter: Put away dish soap, cloths, and any unnecessary items.
7. Avoid Calendar Display: Remove calendars to prevent dating the listing.
8. Seating Arrangement: Straighten bar stools and table chairs for an organized appearance.

Bathrooms

1. Toilet Etiquette: Put toilet lids down for a polished look.
2. Clear Counters: Remove all personal belongings from the bathroom counters.
3. Mirror Reflections: Clean mirrors for a pristine reflection.
4. Shower Elegance: Open shower curtains, removing bottles, razors, and soap.
5. Toilet Paper Presence: Place a fresh roll of toilet paper on the holder.
6. Tidy Trash Area: Remove the toilet brush and trash can for a clean aesthetic.

Best Practices to Consider

1. Photographer Walkthrough: Feel free to do a walkthrough with the photographer upon arrival but avoid following them around during the shoot.
2. Space Management: If space is limited, designate a secondary room for temporary storage before the photographer arrives.
3. Pet Protocol: Ensure pets are out of the home during the photography session.
4. Staging Arrangements: Understand that photographers won’t stage your home, so coordinate with your realtor or stager prior to the shoot.
5. Patience is Key: Don’t rush your photographer; allow them the time needed for capturing great images crucial for effective home marketing.

Important Reminder

Please do not schedule any other services the day of your appointment. Also, we will not enter a home without pets crated or put in a separate room with the door closed. The effort you invest in preparing your home for real estate photography significantly influences its online appeal. By following these guidelines, you not only enhance the visual presentation but also increase the likelihood of attracting potential buyers. Remember, patience during the photography session is a small investment for the substantial returns it can yield in the competitive real estate market.