Use this real estate photography checklist to get a home ready before the photographer arrives. Share it with the seller ahead of time, agree who will handle each task, and leave time for a final walk-through.
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The day before the shoot
- Confirm access, parking, gate codes and who will meet the photographer. Send access details through your order or directly to the team, rather than posting them publicly.
- Tell occupants when photography will take place. Arrange a comfortable place for pets and keep people out of rooms being photographed.
- Clean floors, windows and mirrors. Replace burned-out bulbs; use matching bulb colors within a room where practical.
- Set aside storage for temporary clutter. Remove visible mail, medication, valuables, family photographs and other personal information.
- Identify priority features, such as a renovated kitchen, view or detached space. Share your shot priorities before the visit.
Room-by-room interior checklist
Kitchen and dining areas
- Clear sinks, wipe counters and put away dishes, cleaning products, bins and excess small appliances.
- Remove papers and magnets from the refrigerator. Straighten dining chairs and keep table styling simple.
Living rooms and bedrooms
- Make beds, straighten cushions and tidy furniture. Put shoes, laundry, toys and loose cables out of view.
- Turn off televisions and computer screens. Open blinds or curtains consistently, taking care with damaged or heavy window coverings.
- Clear bedside tables and surfaces while keeping a few intentional decorative items.
Bathrooms
- Clean mirrors and shower glass. Clear toiletries and cleaning supplies from counters, tubs and showers.
- Close toilet lids, straighten towels and put small bins and bath mats away where appropriate.
Driveway, yard and outdoor spaces
- Move vehicles out of the driveway and away from the front of the home where practical; close garage doors.
- Mow, sweep and tidy landscaping. Hide bins, hoses, tools and loose items.
- Arrange patio furniture, straighten cushions and clean the pool. Put removable pool-cleaning equipment away safely.
- Check exterior and pool lights before a twilight photography appointment. Have fountains ready if you want them included.
Just before the photographer arrives
- Walk through each room. Check reflective surfaces for clutter that is easy to overlook.
- Turn on the lights you want shown and turn off ceiling fans. Let the photographer adjust lighting and window coverings for the conditions.
- Make the requested areas accessible. Explain any restrictions or features that should not be photographed.
- Confirm priority shots and any ordered video, drone or 3D-tour coverage.
What if the home is not ready?
Tell the team as early as possible if cleaning, repairs or access will affect the appointment. Do not assume the photographer can move heavy furniture, stage every room or extend the visit on arrival. Review the service terms and contact support about changes.
Aerial coverage and twilight images need their own planning. Review drone photography options before booking, and describe the views or exterior features that matter.
Plan the shoot and listing launch
Compare photography costs and package inclusions, then check current pricing and availability. After delivery, follow our MLS photo upload guide and marketing guides to prepare the listing for publication.