How to prepare a home for professional photography

When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter—and in today’s digital world, that first impression almost always happens online. High-quality real estate photography helps your listing stand out, attract more buyers, and sell faster. However, even the best photographer can’t create perfect images if the home isn’t properly prepared.

To showcase a property in its best light, it’s important to stage and prepare the home before the photoshoot. A little preparation goes a long way toward creating stunning images that highlight the beauty, space, and potential of the property. Below are helpful tips and checklists to ensure your home looks its very best for professional photography.

Inside the Home

Declutter every room – Put away toys, clothing, dishes, towels, shoes, and personal items. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to store these items than to rely on editing afterward.
Depersonalize – Remove family photos, personal collections, and potentially offensive artwork so buyers can envision themselves in the home.
Remove seasonal/holiday décor – Outdated decorations make listings look old.
Clean thoroughly – Dust, vacuum, and mop. Make all beds, fluff pillows, and straighten linens.
Kitchen prep – Clear countertops, put away small appliances, clean the sink, and hide trash cans.
Bathroom prep – Clear counters, put away toiletries, remove shampoos from showers, and set out clean guest towels.
Lighting – Replace burned-out bulbs and turn on all interior lights during the shoot.
Pets – Hide bowls, beds, toys, and litter boxes.
Final touches – Fresh flowers, polished place settings, or a decorative accent can make photos pop.

Outside the Home

Yard care – Mow the lawn, rake leaves, trim trees and bushes.
Tidy up – Store garbage bins, hoses, garden tools, bikes, and toys out of sight.
Remove seasonal/holiday décor – Keep the home looking timeless and current.
Patio & pool – Clean furniture, open umbrellas, uncover grills, and clean pools or hot tubs.
Lighting – Replace broken exterior lights, especially if scheduling a twilight photoshoot.
Add color – Seasonal flowers in planters or landscaping create instant curb appeal.

Right Before the Photographer Arrives

Turn on all interior lights (including cabinet lighting).
Turn off ceiling fans so blades don’t blur in photos.
Light fireplaces and candles if possible.
Open all blinds, curtains, and shades to let in natural light.
Move all cars from the driveway and in front of the home.
Secure pets in a safe area away from the rooms being photographed.

By following these preparation tips, you’ll ensure your property is captured at its very best. Professional real estate photography in Fort Lauderdale and South Florida is one of the most powerful tools for marketing your listing—and with the right preparation, your photos will help buyers fall in love before they even step inside.

📸 Ready to schedule your professional photoshoot? Contact Heifetz Multimedia today to book your real estate photography session in Fort Lauderdale or the surrounding South Florida area.