How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography: A Complete Seller’s Guide
- HomeFX Media
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Learn how to prepare your home for real estate photography with HomeFX’s expert tips. Staging, lighting, and prep make your listing shine.
When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter more than ever. Nearly all buyers begin their search online, and your listing photos are the very first thing they’ll see. A beautifully prepared home doesn’t just look nice in photos—it translates into more showings, stronger offers, and a faster sale.
Professional real estate photography captures your home in its best light, but the results depend on how well you prepare before the photographer arrives. This guide walks you step-by-step through everything you need to do so your property is camera-ready.
Tip #1 - Declutter Every Room
Less is more when it comes to real estate photos. Personal items and clutter distract buyers and make spaces feel smaller than they are.
Tips for decluttering:
Clear countertops in kitchens and bathrooms.
Remove small appliances, toiletries, and stacks of mail.
Tidy bookshelves, mantels, and desks.
Store away pet toys, children’s toys, and laundry baskets.
Remove personal photos and memorabilia to create a neutral, inviting atmosphere.
👉 Think of it as pre-packing for your move—if you don’t need it right now, box it up.
Tip #2 - Deep Clean & Shine
A spotless home always photographs better. Dust, fingerprints, and smudges are magnified under professional lighting and wide-angle lenses.
Cleaning checklist:
Wipe mirrors, windows, and glass doors until streak-free.
Shine stainless steel appliances.
Vacuum carpets and mop hardwood or tile floors.
Dust baseboards, fans, and light fixtures.
Pay extra attention to bathrooms and kitchens—two spaces buyers scrutinize most.
If time is short, consider hiring a professional cleaning service for a one-time deep clean.
Tip #3 - Stage Strategically
Staging is about highlighting your home’s strengths and helping buyers picture themselves living there.
Easy staging tips:
Rearrange furniture to open up walkways and maximize space.
Use neutral bedding and throw pillows to freshen bedrooms.
Place fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or a cozy throw blanket for pops of color.
For empty homes, consider virtual staging to showcase potential.
Even small adjustments—like pulling furniture a few inches off the wall—can make rooms appear larger in photos.
“Professional photos are only as good as the space they capture. A well-staged, clutter-free room allows the photography to shine and creates an emotional connection with buyers online.” — Barb Schwarz, Accredited Staging Professional® & pioneer of home staging
Tip #4 - Maximize Natural & Artificial Lighting
Lighting sets the tone for your photos. A bright home feels welcoming, open, and spacious.
Before your shoot:
Open blinds, curtains, and shades to let in natural light.
Replace burnt-out light bulbs.
Use the same type of bulb (soft white or daylight) throughout to ensure consistent color.
Turn on all lights before the shoot begins—lamps, overheads, under-cabinet lighting.
👉 Pro Tip: Natural daylight works best, so try to schedule your shoot during mid-morning or early afternoon hours.
Tip #5 - Boost Curb Appeal
Buyers don’t just want to see the inside—they want to fall in love from the curb. The exterior sets the tone for the entire showing experience.
Curb appeal checklist:
Mow the lawn and trim hedges.
Remove weeds and sweep walkways.
Put away garden tools, hoses, and trash cans.
Add simple touches like a clean welcome mat or potted flowers.
Park cars down the street so the driveway looks open.
Tip #6 - Final Touches on Shoot Day
Right before your photographer arrives, do a quick walk-through of the home. Small details make a big difference in the final images.
Shoot day checklist:
Fluff pillows, smooth bedspreads, and fold throws neatly.
Hide trash cans, pet beds, food bowls, and visible cords.
Turn on all lights for consistency.
Close toilet lids and ensure bathroom counters are bare.
Do one last scan for clutter, fingerprints, or anything out of place.
This 15-minute final sweep ensures every shot looks polished.
FAQs About Preparing for Real Estate Photography
1. How far in advance should I prepare my home?Start decluttering and cleaning at least a week before the photoshoot. Do the finishing touches on the day of.
2. Should I hire a professional stager?Professional staging can boost sale price and time on market, but simple DIY staging with neutral décor and good furniture placement often works well.
3. Do pets need to be removed during the shoot?Yes, it’s best to take pets out of the house during photography. Hide food bowls, crates, and litter boxes as well.
4. What if my home is vacant?Consider virtual staging. It’s affordable and helps buyers visualize the space without requiring physical furniture.
5. How many photos do I need for my listing?Most MLS systems allow 30–50 images. A professional shoot will capture the right angles to showcase your property fully.
Conclusion
Preparing your home the right way makes a world of difference in your listing photos. A little effort now ensures your home is showcased at its best, attracting more buyers and helping you sell faster.
At HomeFX, we specialize in real estate photography, video tours, and drone media that bring listings to life.
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