Pre-Shoot Checklist
In General
The house should look clean and organized.
Decluttering countertops go a long way in making a home look open and inviting.
Hide any objects that you would not like to be included in the pictures (trash cans, hygiene products, cleaning products, etc.)
For a twilight shoot make sure that all exterior and interior lights turn on and replace any bulbs that are not working.
Exterior
It is recommended to schedule your yard maintenance a day before our appointment. And if possible to pressure wash driveways or any other surface that has accumulated dirt over the years.
Park vehicles in the garage or down the street away from the front of the home
Remove trash bins, sports equipment, garden hose, branches and leaves from the driveway and front lawn area
Remove visible foliage from the roof and gutters
Remove debris, toys and any cleaning equipment from the pool.
Remove all furniture and grill covers.
Clean windows and glass doors. This is key for interior shots with a view.
Straighten any outdoor furniture and make sure all cushions are on the chairs
Store any seasonal decor
Interior
We generally prefer to shoot with lights off as natural light is best, and interior lights skew the colors to yellow or blue. In dark rooms with no windows, the photographer will adjust the lighting accordingly.
Open all window treatments to allow as much natural light as possible.
Clear all countertops and remove clutter.
Depersonalize home by hiding family photos, names, etc.
Turn off ceiling fans and store any portable fans.
Clean mirrors and windows.
Vacuum carpets and polish floors.
Hide pets, and store any pet dishes, crates, toys, beds, litter box, etc.
Hide away remote controls and chargers.
Hide all cords and cables.
Remove small rugs and runners in kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms so that the floor can be seen clearly.
Kitchen
Clear counters of clutter
Hide countertop appliances so the counter space looks larger.
Remove refrigerator magnets, photos, etc.
Clean surfaces and appliances.
Hide soaps, towels, cleaning items, etc.
Store draining racks.
Organize open shelves.
Living Areas
Arrange sofa cushions, and fold blankets neatly
Minimize photos and personal items.
Organize bookshelves.
Minimize knick-knacks.
Remove excess furniture and accessories.
Bedrooms
Make the beds neatly and fluff pillows.
Arrange any decorative pillows.
Store clothing and shoes.
Remove items underneath the bed. They can usually can be seen in photos
Remove all clutter. Items like chargers, phones, tablets, tissues, etc.
Tidy master closets.
Declutter and depersonalize bedside tables.
Remove laundry and hide hampers.
Bathrooms
Arrange hand and body towels to be neatly folded or hanged.
Close toilet lids.
Remove all hygiene products from the countertop. Including medicine, toothbrush and bar soap.
Remove bath and shower items like shampoos, razors, and loofahs
Hide toilet brushes, plungers, and wastebaskets.
Store soaps and candles.
