How to Prepare a Home for a Real Estate Photoshoot
Professional photos are one of the most powerful tools for selling a home quickly and at top dollar. Great photography starts long before the camera comes out — it begins with preparation. A well-prepped home looks brighter, more spacious, and more inviting in photos, giving buyers a strong emotional connection before they ever step inside. Whether you’re a listing agent, homeowner, or stager, these steps will help ensure your property looks its absolute best on shoot day. Be sure to use my Get Ready Guide along with these tips for optimal results.
Start with a Deep Clean
Clean spaces photograph better. Smudges on windows, dust on ceiling fans, or cluttered countertops become far more noticeable through a high-resolution lens. A spotless home tells potential buyers that the property has been well cared for, which builds confidence and perceived value. Schedule a professional cleaning a day or two before your shoot, not on the same day of your shoot! Focus on key areas — kitchens, bathrooms, baseboards, and windows. On shoot morning, do a quick touch-up: smooth bedspreads, polish stainless steel, and check for stray items in view (water bottles, phone chargers, remotes, exc).
Declutter Every Room
Clutter distracts from the home’s best features. Removing unnecessary items allows the viewer’s eye to travel smoothly through the space, making it feel larger and more cohesive. Even spacious homes can appear smaller if they’re overfilled with furniture or decor. Pack away personal items, mail, toys, and anything that doesn’t serve a visual purpose. Clear countertops and tabletops, leaving only one or two simple accent pieces. Place cords, remotes, and small appliances out of sight. Put dirty dishes in the dishwasher, not in the bottom of the sink. Trust me, they are not “out of sight” in the sink. Think “model home” — minimal, neat, and timeless.
Focus on Lighting
Lighting can make or break a real estate photo. A well-lit room feels open and inviting, while poor lighting can make even beautiful spaces look flat. Replace all burnt-out bulbs and use consistent bulb colors (either all warm or all cool). Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light, but avoid harsh midday sun.
Stage for Impact
Staging helps potential buyers visualize how they might live in the space. It doesn’t always require hiring a professional stager — small adjustments can make a big difference. Balanced furniture placement, clean lines, and thoughtful accents help rooms feel intentional and functional. Rearrange furniture to maximize openness and flow. Remove any large or unnecessary pieces that crowd the room. Add subtle, lifestyle touches: a throw blanket on the couch, fresh towels in the bathroom, or a bowl of green apples in the kitchen. These simple details bring a pop of color and life to the photos.
Vacant House? No Problem
All the steps above apply to vacant homes as well. A little bit of time cleaning a up an empty home can have huge results in the end. It also sets up the photos nicely for virtual staging. I’ve been in many homes that could have benefited from a quick floor mopping, no more than 15 minutes of work to show off clean, beautiful floors. Well worth the effort!
Highlight Curb Appeal
The exterior photo is the first image most buyers see online. A tidy, welcoming exterior gives a strong signal that the rest of the home has been equally well maintained. Even small improvements can dramatically elevate curb appeal. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and clear walkways. Sweep patios and driveways, remove trash bins (hide them in the garage), and park cars away from the home. Add a pop of color with flowers or a fresh welcome mat.
Final Walkthrough Before the Shoot
Even with great prep, a few last-minute tweaks can make a world of difference. This is your chance to spot small distractions before they end up in the final photos. Turn on every light in the home (don’t forget the microwave light) , open all blinds, and hide cords or personal items. Straighten furniture and align decor symmetrically. Then, step back and view each room as a potential buyer would — clean, bright, and welcoming.
Ready for Picture-Perfect Results?
A little preparation can have a huge impact on your listing’s success. Homes that photograph well tend to attract more online views, more showings, and faster offers. Investing time in presentation ensures your property stands out in Phoenix’s competitive market. Book your professional real estate photoshoot today.