How to Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography and Videography

Stunning photos and videos are essential for showcasing your home’s best features and attracting potential buyers. Follow these comprehensive steps to ensure your home is ready for its close-up!


Pro Tip: The goal is to create a clean, inviting, and neutral space that allows buyers to envision themselves living in your home. A little preparation goes a long way!


1. Declutter and Depersonalize

Clear surfaces and spaces to create a clean, spacious look. The less personal and cluttered the space, the easier it is for buyers to imagine their own belongings in the home.

  • Remove personal items: Take down family photos, awards, diplomas, and personal collections.
  • Clear countertops: In kitchens and bathrooms, remove appliances, toiletries, soaps, and dish racks. Keep only 1-2 decorative items, like a vase or candle.
  • Simplify wall decor: Remove excessive or highly personalized artwork, posters, or bold pieces that might distract from the home’s features. Neutral or minimal wall art helps keep the focus on the space itself.
  • Declutter furniture: Remove extra furniture to open up rooms. Keep only essential pieces to show functionality without overcrowding.
  • Hide everyday items: Store away kids’ toys, pet supplies, cables, chargers, and stacks of mail or magazines.
  • Organize closets and storage: Tidy up closets, shelves, and cabinets, as buyers may peek inside. Neat storage suggests a well-maintained home.


2. Deep Clean Every Room

A spotless home signals care and attention to detail, making it more appealing in photos and videos.

  • Windows and mirrors: Clean inside and out for a streak-free shine to maximize natural light.
  • Floors: Vacuum carpets, sweep, and mop hard floors. Consider professional cleaning for stained carpets.
  • Surfaces: Dust all surfaces, including furniture, shelves, ceiling fans, and baseboards.
  • Kitchens: Clean appliances (inside and out), degrease stovetops, and polish sinks.
  • Bathrooms: Scrub tiles, grout, and fixtures. Replace stained caulk and ensure no mildew is visible.
  • Odor control: Eliminate pet, cooking, or smoke odors. Avoid strong air fresheners; opt for neutral scents or open windows.
  • Trash bins: Empty all trash cans and hide them from view.

3. Enhance Lighting

Bright, well-lit spaces look larger and more welcoming in photos and videos.

  • Replace bulbs: Ensure all light bulbs work and match in color temperature (preferably soft white or daylight).
  • Maximize natural light: Open all blinds, curtains, and shades unless the view is unappealing.
  • Clean fixtures: Dust and clean light fixtures and lampshades.
  • Turn on lights: Before the shoot, turn on all interior and exterior lights, including accent lighting, to create a warm ambiance.

4. Stage for a Neutral, Timeless Look

Staging helps highlight your home’s potential while keeping the focus on its architecture and layout.

  • Neutralize bold elements: Replace vibrant or eclectic decor (like colorful rugs or abstract art) with neutral tones to appeal to a broader audience.
  • Add subtle touches: Place fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or neatly folded towels to add warmth without clutter.
  • Bedrooms: Make beds with clean, neutral linens. Remove excess pillows or throws.
  • Living areas: Arrange furniture to highlight flow and space. Add a few neutral throw pillows or a cozy blanket.
  • Dining areas: Set the table minimally with simple place settings to show functionality.
  • Minimize patterns: Avoid busy patterns in curtains, rugs, or bedding that can distract in photos.

5. Boost Curb Appeal

The exterior is the first impression buyers get, so make it count.

  • Lawn and landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove weeds. Add mulch or flowers for a fresh look.
  • Front entrance: Clean the front door, polish hardware, and add a new doormat or potted plants.
  • Driveway and walkways: Power-wash paths, driveways, and siding to remove dirt or stains.
  • Outdoor furniture: Clean and arrange patio furniture neatly. Remove worn or cluttered items.
  • Hide outdoor clutter: Store away hoses, tools, toys, and trash bins.
  • Seasonal items: Remove holiday decorations or seasonal flags to keep the look timeless.

6. Prepare for Video Walkthroughs

Videos require extra attention to flow and continuity for a seamless viewing experience.

  • Clear pathways: Ensure hallways and doorways are free of obstacles for smooth camera movement.
  • Check doors and windows: Make sure they open and close easily, as videographers may show functionality.
  • Hide cables and wires: Tuck away or tape down cords to avoid tripping hazards or visual distractions.
  • Test sound distractions: Turn off fans, appliances, or noisy HVAC systems during the shoot to avoid background noise.
  • Stage for movement: Arrange furniture to guide the camera naturally through the space, showcasing the home’s flow.

7. Pet and People Preparations

Keep the focus on the home by minimizing signs of pets or occupants.

  • Pet supplies: Remove pet beds, bowls, crates, and toys. Store litter boxes out of sight.
  • Pet hair: Vacuum furniture and floors to remove pet hair or dander.
  • Plan for pets: Arrange for pets to be out of the home or in a secure area during the shoot.
  • People: Ensure no one is home during the shoot to avoid reflections or accidental appearances in photos/videos.

8. Day-of-Shoot Checklist

Complete these final tasks just before the photographer/videographer arrives.

  • Walk through the home: Double-check every room for stray items or clutter.
  • Turn on all lights: Include lamps, under-cabinet lighting, and exterior lights.
  • Open blinds/curtains: Let in natural light unless directed otherwise.
  • Adjust thermostat: Set to a comfortable temperature for the crew.
  • Remove vehicles: Clear cars from the driveway and street in front of the home.
  • Communicate: Share any specific features you want highlighted (e.g., a new kitchen island or built-in shelves).