Preparing your home for photography:

  • Mow and rake yard.

    Contain pets in garage or out of sight.

    Move garbage cans out of sight.

    Remove all garden tools including hoses and sprinklers.

    Sweep driveways, sidewalks and patios.

    Straighten deck furniture and open umbrellas.

    Clean grill and remove cover.

    For extra appeal, fill planters with flowers and spread fresh mulch.

  • Remove piles of newspaper and magazine.

    Turn on all interior lights including lamps.

    Turn ceiling fans off.

    De-clutter rooms which may be excessively furnished.

    Hide any moving boxes.

    Remove personal photos if desired.

    Turn off TVs and computers.

    Vacuum carpets and sweep hard floors.

    Remove pet toys, dishes, bed, cages, etc.

    Wash windows, glass doors, etc.

    Open all shades and blinds.

    Hide trash cans.

  • Place trash cans out of view in closet or cabinet.

    Remove magnets, photos, notes, and papers from refrigerator.

    De-clutter stove and countertops.

    Remove any rugs or mats. This makes the space appear larger.

    Stow away small appliances.

    Hide soaps and other cleaning items.

    Hide dish towels.

    Clear sink of dishes.

    Put away draining racks.

    Organize open shelves.

  • Make bathrooms Sparkle.

    Hang fresh towels or remove all towels if not pleasing.

    Remove all bath mats.

    Clear counters of all toiletries.

    Clean mirrors.

    Close toilet lid.

    Remove shampoo and other products from shower/tub.

    Remove floor scales, trash cans, and laundry hamper.

  • Hide all remotes.

    Conceal exposed cables as well as you can.

    Remove excess throw blankets.

    Straighten any decorative pillows.

  • Make beds.

    Arrange decorative pillows.

    Put away clothing, shoes, charging cords, catchalls, etc.

  • Remove pool hose.

    Turn on water features.

    Remove all toys, floats, etc.

  • Pets should be taken on a walk or well hidden for the photoshoot.

    Pets in the backyard will generally be seen from the inside.

    Pet toys, beds, and bowls should be hidden.

  • Hiding from the camera is impossible; please keep the number of people present during the shoot to a minimum.

    Contractors should be scheduled on other days.

    Remaining people should retire to a bedroom while the home is being photographed until it is that room’s turn.

Want to hire professional home staging?

Contact our partner at Haven Home Staging & Design.