Some homes photograph well without much effort. Most don’t. A room can look completely different on camera than it does in person, and small details that your eye naturally ignores can become distracting in a still image.
Over the years I’ve learned that what you do before the camera comes out matters just as much as the photography itself. That’s why I put together this checklist for clients. It’s not about making your home look like someone else’s — it’s about clearing away the noise so the space can speak.
I don’t expect anyone to follow every point perfectly. Use this as a gentle guide, and adapt it to your home and schedule. Even a few small changes can make a big difference in the final photos.
The basics: declutter and simplify
- Clear kitchen counters — small appliances, spice jars, dish racks. Leave only a few intentional items like a fruit bowl or a single kettle.
- Remove personal photos and fridge magnets. They’re lovely in real life, but they pull attention away from the room itself.
- Tidy bookshelves — leave some books, vary the heights, and add a plant or two instead of filling every shelf.
- Hide cables and chargers. Power strips, tangled wires, and visible cords are some of the most common distractions in listing photos.
- Put away remote controls, paperwork, and daily clutter from living areas and bedrooms.
Light and windows
- Clean all windows and mirrors. Smudges and dust show up more in photos than you might expect.
- Open curtains and blinds fully unless the direct sunlight is harsh — in that case, sheer curtains can soften the light.
- Turn off all overhead lights and lamps during the day. Natural light almost always looks better for interior shots.
- If a room feels dark, consider adding a floor lamp or table lamp with a warm bulb, but keep it subtle.
Furniture and layout
- Remove excess furniture. If a room feels cramped, take out one or two pieces to improve the flow.
- Pull furniture slightly away from walls — it creates a more layered, inviting composition.
- Angle a chair or two toward the main seating area instead of lining everything against the wall.
- Make sure there’s a clear path through each room. You don’t want the camera to feel blocked.
Beds and bedrooms
- Use plain or lightly patterned bedding. Crisp white or soft neutrals photograph well, but any tidy, wrinkle-free set works.
- Smooth the duvet or quilt and tuck in loose edges. Fluff the pillows and arrange them neatly.
- Clear nightstands — keep only a lamp, a small plant, or a book. Remove water glasses and phone chargers.
- Close closet doors and make sure nothing is peeking out from under the bed.
Bathrooms
- Clear countertops: toothbrushes, soap dispensers, and personal care items should be hidden away.
- Put out fresh, neatly folded towels — a neutral color works best.
- Close toilet lids and remove any bath mats or rugs for a cleaner look, unless they add a strong design element.
- Wipe down mirrors, taps, and glass surfaces to avoid water spots.
Final touches
- Add a few simple living elements: a vase of fresh flowers, a bowl of lemons on the kitchen island, or a potted plant in the corner.
- Check the entryway — it’s the first thing buyers see, so make sure shoes are out of sight and the area feels welcoming.
- If you have pets, hide food bowls, beds, and litter boxes for the shoot.
- Do a quick walkthrough with your phone camera. Sometimes a photo reveals clutter your eyes have learned to overlook.
I know this feels like a lot, and I never expect perfection. Homes are lived in, and that’s part of their charm. But a little preparation goes a long way, and I’ll be there to guide you through the rest on the day of the shoot.
If you’re unsure about anything, just ask. We can go through the list together before we set a date.