Preparation Guide

Getting Ready for Your Photoshoot

A little prep goes a long way. Follow our simple checklist to make sure your property looks its absolute best and captures maximum bookings.

Preparation Timeline

Before Your Shoot

Here's what to tackle and when, so everything is photo-ready on shoot day.

1

1 Week Before

  • Declutter all surfaces — remove personal items, mail, clutter from counters and tables
  • Inspect for visible damage (scuffs, marks, broken items) and make quick repairs
  • Plan your staging — think about which decorative items will look good on camera
  • Check all light bulbs and replace any that are burnt out
  • Walk through and note any areas that need attention
2

2–3 Days Before

  • Deep clean everything — counters, mirrors, windows, floors, baseboards, toilets
  • Wash all linens, towels, and blankets
  • Trim landscaping and clear outdoor debris
  • Vacuum and mop all floors, including hard-to-reach corners
  • Check and clean the pool/hot tub if applicable
3

Day Of the Shoot

  • Lights: Turn on EVERY light in the property — every lamp, overhead fixture, under-cabinet lighting, closet lights
  • Natural light: Open all blinds, curtains, and shutters fully to maximize natural light
  • Remove personal items: Toothbrushes, medications, personal photos, family items
  • Hide utilities: Trash cans, cleaning supplies, recycling bins, cords, chargers
  • Stage beds: Fresh, high-quality linens — make them look inviting and wrinkle-free
  • Fresh towels: Roll and stage bathroom and pool towels nicely
  • Clear kitchen: Leave only 1–2 decorative items on counters; put away small appliances
  • Remove cars: Park outside the property or down the street
  • Water features: Turn on fountains, waterfalls, pool jets if applicable
Detailed Guidance

Room-by-Room Tips

Specific advice for every space in your property.

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Living Room

  • Fluff pillows and arrange them neatly on couches
  • Fold throws and drape them casually over furniture
  • Clear all coffee tables — one book or candle is enough
  • Turn on floor lamps, table lamps, and overhead lights
  • Close TV covers or stage TV remotes out of sight
  • Ensure seating is inviting and wrinkle-free
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Kitchen

  • Clean all appliances until they shine — especially stainless steel
  • Empty and wipe down countertops completely
  • Put small appliances (toasters, blenders) in cabinets
  • Ensure sink is spotless and empty — no dishes
  • Wipe cabinet fronts and hardware
  • Style with 1–2 decorative items like fresh flowers or a nice bowl
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Bedrooms

  • Dress beds with fresh, high-quality linens (no stains or wrinkles)
  • Fluff pillows and arrange them neatly at the headboard
  • Use a neutral-colored throw blanket folded at the foot
  • Empty nightstands — no personal items, books, or clutter
  • Remove any visible coat racks, hangers, or clothing
  • Turn on all lights including bedside lamps and ceiling lights
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Bathrooms

  • Deep clean toilets, sinks, and tubs until they sparkle
  • Remove all personal items — toothbrushes, medications, hygiene products
  • Fold towels neatly and place on towel bars or racks
  • Wipe mirrors and glass shower doors streak-free
  • Ensure grout is clean and mold-free
  • Turn on all lights including exhaust fans if present
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Outdoor Areas

  • Trim landscaping and remove dead plants
  • Sweep patios, decks, and walkways clean
  • Arrange outdoor furniture invitingly
  • Remove trash cans, recycling bins, and garden hoses from view
  • Turn on pool/hot tub and ensure water is clean and clear
  • Close garage doors or ensure garages are organized
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Entry & Hallways

  • Make sure front entry is spotless and welcoming
  • Remove shoes, coats, and personal items from entry
  • Ensure hallways are clear of clutter and storage
  • Turn on all hallway and entryway lighting
  • Wipe down doors, frames, and handles
  • Remove security alarm keypads from view if possible
Timeline & Expectations

What to Expect on Shoot Day

Here's how our process works so you know exactly what happens.

On-Time Arrival

Our photographer will arrive at the scheduled time and begin immediately. We respect your schedule and ours.

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1–2 Hour Shoot

The entire shoot typically takes 1–2 hours depending on property size. We capture every room, outdoor space, and aerial angles.

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You Don't Need to Be There

You can be home or away — either is fine. Our photographer is fully self-contained and doesn't need any assistance.

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Delivery Within 24 Hours

Your professionally edited photos will be delivered to your personal gallery page within 24 hours. Download in full resolution instantly.

Insider Advice

Pro Tips From Our Photographers

Real insights from hundreds of property shoots.

Turn on ALL the lights

The #1 thing hosts forget is lighting. Every lamp, overhead fixture, and under-cabinet light should be on. Professional photos depend on good lighting.

Less is more

Empty counters and surfaces look bigger, brighter, and more inviting than cluttered ones. When in doubt, put it away.

Fresh linens make a difference

Clean, high-quality linens photograph beautifully and suggest comfort. Guests notice. Budget for nice linens if you can.

Open everything up

Blinds open, curtains pulled back, doors opened to show flow. Light and openness sell properties. Closed curtains photograph dark.

Hide the utilities

Trash cans, cleaning supplies, recycling bins, cords — these break the aesthetic. Find a place to hide them entirely.

Stage with intention

A few high-quality decorative items look intentional. A bunch of random stuff looks cluttered. Choose carefully.

Ready to Book?

Follow this guide, and your property will look incredible. Book your shoot in 60 seconds.

Schedule Your Photoshoot