Pre-Shoot Checklist
To achieve the best results, we kindly ask that you and your client complete the checklist before our arrival. A prepared home significantly impacts the quality of the final deliverables, and a little preparation goes a long way. Remember, photos and videos capture a lasting impression—how the home appears during the session will reflect directly in the final product.
While some items on the checklist may not apply to every property, we encourage you to review it thoroughly to ensure all relevant points are covered.
Our goal is to make your session seamless and productive—not just for our photographers, but for you and your client as well! A clean, tidy, and well-staged home not only photographs beautifully but also helps potential buyers envision themselves in the space.
We are committed to delivering exceptional results, and your collaboration is essential in preparing the property for a successful session. Thank you for your efforts in making this process as smooth and effective as possible!
Pre-Shoot Checklist
Exterior
- Remove cars from the driveway and front of the home; park in the garage or down the street. Keep garage doors closed.
- Hide garbage cans, hoses, and gardening tools.
- Mow the lawn and clear debris (twigs, branches, weeds).
- Remove toys and sports equipment from the yard and driveway.
- Uncover clean pools and hot tubs; skim leaves. We’ll handle lighting and jets. Store cleaning equipment.
- Clean and arrange outdoor furniture, open patio umbrellas, tidy chairs, and fluff cushions.
- Remove grill covers (if clean) and store utensils.
- Sweep sidewalks, driveways, patios, decks, and pool areas.
- Take down flags, ornaments, and home security signs.
Lighting & Windows
- Turn on all lights (interior and exterior); replace burnt-out bulbs.
- Turn on ceiling fan lights, but keep fans off.
- Turn on all lamps and stove light
- Open curtains and lower blinds with horizontal slats open.
- Turn off all TVs and computer screens.
- Ensure fireplaces are lit
- Ensure glass doors, windows, and mirrors are clean and streak-free.
Kitchen/Dining Room
- Wipe down and clear all countertops.
- Wipe down appliances
- Remove appliances, knife blocks, and toasters; leave only one modern device (e.g., coffee maker or tea kettle).
- Clear all items from the refrigerator, including magnets and pictures.
- Remove throw rugs, hanging towels, and paper towels.
- Hide the garbage can and remove dishes and drain stoppers.
- Straighten and tidy all chairs.
Bedrooms
- Make all beds and add decorative pillows if available.
- Remove all clutter from end tables, dressers, and nightstands (e.g., personal photos, glasses, alarm clocks).
- Store away phones, tablets, charging cords, books, tissues, and other items.
- If possible, remove personal photos.
- Clear any visible clutter under the bed.
- Ensure walk-in closets are tidy and organized.
Bathrooms
- Arrange clean hand and body towels neatly.
- Hide all trash cans, plungers, and toilet scrubbers.
- Remove floor mats, close the toilet seat, and replace with a fresh toilet paper roll.
- Remove hygiene products from the counter (e.g., soap, medications, toothbrushes).
- Clear shampoos, razors, and loofahs from the shower; close the shower curtain or door.
Living Room/Family Room
- Vacuum, sweep, and mop as needed, including sweeping and dusting wooden floors.
- Tidy couches, fluff pillows, and clear clutter from tables and desks.
- Dust off any screens.
- Sweep wooden floors.
Help us showcase your property at its best by ensuring it is cleaned, free of clutter, and prepared according to our pre-shoot checklist. While our photographers will do their best to address any overlooked items, their primary focus is on capturing stunning images—not cleaning or organizing the space. Please note that personal hygiene items will not be touched or moved. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
Feel free to ask any questions at any time regarding the staging or preparation of your listing!
