Home Preparation Guide
Our objective is to capture stunning images of your home that will captivate potential buyers and generate offers. To facilitate a seamless and secure photoshoot, we have compiled this comprehensive preparation checklist for you to follow before your scheduled session.
General Preparation
❑ Ready the space: Ensure that cleaning and staging are completed before our arrival, preferably the day before the photoshoot. While I may adjust minor items for optimal composition, larger items and staging accessories should be in place beforehand.
❑ Pet arrangements: While we adore pets, for safety reasons, please secure or remove them during the photoshoot. Additionally, ensure that MLS rules regarding the absence of people and pets in pictures are adhered to. Hide pet food and water bowls, and secure cats as needed.
❑ Maintain privacy: Plan for occupants to be off the property or in areas where they won't be visible during the photoshoot to prevent shadows, reflections, and potential risks to equipment.
❑ Garage storage: Utilize the garage for storing items you wish to conceal, as we typically do not photograph garage spaces.
Outdoor Preparation
❑ Clear driveways: Remove cars from the driveway and, if possible, from the street in front of the home to ensure an unobstructed view of the property.
❑ Avoid wet driveways: If a wet appearance is desired, it will be added during editing to prevent potential issues like dry spots and puddles caused by watering driveways.
❑ Conceal trash cans: Place trash cans on the side of the property or in the garage.
❑ Hide hoses: Move hoses the day before the shoot to prevent water drips and puddles on the pavement.
❑ Yard maintenance: Mow and trim the yard at least 24 hours before the photoshoot.
❑ Deactivate sprinklers: Avoid watering on the day of the shoot to prevent pavement puddles.
❑ Pet waste cleanup: Ensure all dog droppings are cleared from the yard.
❑ Pool and spa preparation: If applicable, have pools and/or spas cleaned with covers removed. Provide instructions to the realtor for spa operation.
❑ Water feature readiness: Clean fountains, waterfalls, etc., and provide instructions for their activation.
❑ No for-sale sign before the shoot to comply with MLS policies.
❑ Patio furniture upkeep: Dust and remove cobwebs from outdoor furniture, avoiding hosing down on the day of the shoot to prevent puddles.
Interior Preparation
❑ Kitchen declutter: Keep a minimalistic look with few items on counters, stowing away dishes, sponges, and other non-essential items. Remove magnets and pictures from the refrigerator and take away throw rugs.
❑ Bathroom declutter: Hide personal items and showcase decorative, unused items. Remove throw rugs.
❑ Bedroom preparation: Ensure beds are made and personal items are stored away in all bedrooms.
❑ Conceal trash cans: Hide all trash cans in closets or the garage to avoid distractions.
❑ Portable fan storage: While ceiling fans can be displayed, hide portable fans for a more polished appearance in closets or the garage.
❑ Cord and remote management: Conceal visible cords, TV remotes, and game consoles for a cleaner look.
❑ Entryway clarity: Remove shoes, umbrellas, and similar items from entryways.
❑ Open blinds with views: Showcase outdoor views or allow natural light if windows offer unappealing views.
❑ Light and fan adjustments: Ensure all interior lights are on before our arrival, and turn off ceiling fans.
Twilight Preparation
If you've scheduled a twilight shoot, the following additional preparations are necessary to be completed before our arrival. Keep in mind that twilight shoots have tight schedules to optimize lighting, so have these items ready in advance.
❑ Illuminate all lights: Turn on both interior and exterior lights throughout the property. Replace any burned-out bulbs at least 24 hours before the photoshoot.
❑ Spa readiness: Remove spa covers and turn on the lights in the spa before our arrival.
❑ Pool lights activation: Turn on pool lights if applicable.
❑ Water feature activation: Activate fountains, waterfalls, or similar features before our arrival.
We appreciate your time and cooperation in going through this checklist! We look forward to your photoshoot day!
(503) 676-9364