How to Prep a Home for a Real Estate Photo Shoot

A real estate photo shoot is not the time to start cleaning, staging, moving cars, hiding boxes, or figuring out access. The property should be ready before the photographer arrives.

Good prep protects the media quality and the appointment window.

Interior prep

Clear kitchen counters. Remove personal items from bathrooms. Hide loose wires. Put away laundry, garbage bins, toiletries, pet bowls, shoes, paperwork, and small clutter. Make beds cleanly. Open blinds where appropriate. Turn on working lights.

If a room should not be photographed, close it and tell the photographer before the shoot starts.

Exterior prep

Move vehicles from the driveway where possible. Put garbage and recycling bins away. Clear the front entry. Tidy patios, balconies, yards, garages, and exterior paths if they are part of the listing story.

For condos, confirm whether balcony, parking, locker, lobby, or amenity photos are allowed.

Access prep

Confirm lockbox code, alarm code, concierge rules, elevator booking, tenant timing, parking, pet handling, and owner contact before the appointment. If the photographer cannot access the property cleanly, coverage may be reduced or the shoot may need to be rescheduled.

Media-specific prep

For 3D tours, remove private documents, family photos, sensitive screens, and items that should not appear publicly. For floor plans, make sure all relevant rooms are accessible.

If you need branded and unbranded links, rush delivery, specific MLS formatting, or a custom scope, confirm it before booking through Book a Shoot or Request a Quote.