Tips for realtors and home owners
To make a home look its best in photos, here's a list of suggested items to prepare beforehand for a perfect photo shoot. Double checking this list before a photographer shows up will yield the best results.
- turn on every light inside and outside the house, even during daylight hours
- check lights and replace any burnt out bulbs before the photo shoot
- turn off all ceiling fans so they don't blur in the photos
- close all windows and outside doors
- clean glass surfaces to a spotless shine: windows, mirrors, tables, etc.
- all interior doors should be fully open
- garage doors should be closed for exterior shots
- extend window blinds all the way down and leave them open to see outside
- curtains should allow at least a partial view through windows
- turn on pool, spa, and garden lights, water fountains and waterfalls
- turn on fireplaces if possible, live flames greatly enhance photos
- move cars out of garage and driveway
- cars parked along street should not be visible from inside the house
- keep garbage cans out of view
- unlock access gates
- keep personal items and any identifying objects out of view
- close toilet lids
- arrange and position all furniture as desired before the start of the shoot
- anything with a rectangular shape on walls needs to be perfectly level
- tidy and hide electrical cords as much as possible
- kitchens should be spotless, appliances must look like new
- bathrooms should sparkle and look inviting to new residents
- laundry areas need to look clean and ready to use
- double check neatness of patios, one of the most overlooked areas
- add plants and flowers of any kind to add life to photos inside and out
- in general, everything in view should look appealing to a potential buyer
- staging empty homes is highly recommended
- stay out of sight of the camera and away from any mirrors and windows visible to the camera