How to prepare a house for a successful photoshoot.

 

Capturing quality images of houses is one of the most important services that we’ll provide. Many of the photos will be displayed on numerous real estate, vacation rentals websites and in web portfolios of builders and architects. Some of the images will be used in printed advertising and submitted for remodeling competitions. We want to produce images that will leave you feeling proud to display your home. With that in mind, it’s important that house is properly prepared so we can take the best possible images. Here are a few tips to help you help us have a successful photoshoot at your home.

 

Outside 
Shovel all walkways and driveways. If time permits, please sweep them as well. Mow and rake the yard
Remove all vehicles from driveways and do not to park directly in front of the house.
Remove your portable garbage container.
Flower beds should be neat and free of excessive weed growth.
Remove all garden tools including hoses and sprinklers.
Sweep decks and patios.

 

Inside
Open window coverings to let in the natural light and neighborhood views (vertical and Venetian blinds turned to open position).
Turn difficult to find light switches to the on position and make sure all light bulbs are in working order, especially chandeliers.
Turn ceiling fans and television sets off.
Clear the floor: pick up toys, pillows, boxes, hide cords if you can
Stash all those remote controls in a cupboards 
Remove piles of newspaper and magazines.
Straighten and tidy bookshelves, display units, and home workspaces.

 

Bathrooms
Tidy all bathrooms storing toiletries off of counter tops and put toilet seat and lids down.
Avoid hanging cords, put away hair dryers, curling irons etc.
Don’t hang towels over shower doors, put them on the rack.
               

Bedrooms
Make all beds and tidy bedrooms. Clothes hung, or folded and put away.
Ensure that all toys are neatly put away.
De-clutter rooms which may be excessively furnished. They don’t photograph well.

 

Kitchen
Tuck trash cans out of view in a closet or a cupboard.
Keep kitchen countertops as clear of items as possible but leave a few decorator items: Table centerpieces (bowls of fruit look great!), candles, ceramics, silk or fresh flowers, healthy potted plants. Tall plants/trees in room corners.
Try setting the table with place settings, colorful plates, wine glasses – make it look like you’re giving a dinner party! Turn on gas fireplaces, if possible.
Remove any items which may be taped are otherwise fastened to the refrigerator and clear the top too.
Remove pets and evidence of pets like bowls, toys and litter boxes.