Getting Your House Ready

Where We Will Be Shooting

All finished spaces, excluding most hallways and closets.

Where We Will NOT Be Shooting

• Unfinished spaces like garages, basements, or inside sheds
• Cool or unique unfinished spaces may be photographed upon request

Before Scheduling

• Have the house fully ready before arrival — we shoot as-is
• Pack items away and hide them in closets or unfinished spaces
• Focus on reducing clutter — items without a clear home
• Goal: every item should look naturally placed in photographs

Before Your Shoot — Winter / Fall

• Ensure safe photographer access to the property
• Clear the driveway of snow
• Clear pathways and patios
• Organize leaves neatly on pathways and patios

Before Your Shoot — Summer / Spring

• Mow the lawn (height matters if grass is budding or has colorful weeds)
• Maintain pool condition
• Clear the refrigerator of papers and magnets
• Address large stains
• Perform general cleaning throughout

Right Before Your Shoot

• Remove all cars from the driveway
• Close all interior house doors
• Walk through interior and exterior — hide anything that draws unnecessary attention
• Turn off TVs and computer monitors
• Remove trash cans from all rooms
• Remove or hide toiletries; put toilet seats down
• Open shower curtains
• Make beds and tidy bedrooms
• Remove personal identifying items: calendars, photos, mail, etc.

Light

• Open all blinds and curtains for maximum natural light
• Turn on all lights: overhead, lamps, and accent lighting
• Turn OFF all ceiling fans

Pets

• Hide pet bowls, toys, and beds
• Prepare a room to house free-roaming pets during the shoot
• Caged or terrarium pets: move right before shooting if possible
• Fish can remain in place