Home Prep Checklist

General

  • Turn all lights ON (lamps, exterior, closet, cabinet lights, etc.)
  • Turn ceiling fans OFF
  • Open all curtains for maximum natural light
  • Keep blinds down but rotated fully open
  • Replace any burnt-out bulbs
  • Hide cords, chargers, and visible wires
  • Remove personal photos and highly personal décor
  • Secure pets or remove from property during shoot
  • Hide pet bowls, toys, crates, litter boxes

Note: We do not photograph standard closets or garages (unless requested) — these may be used for temporary storage.

Kitchen

  • Remove all towels, mats, and rugs
  • Clear countertops (minimal, intentional décor only)
  • Remove soap, sponges, drying racks from sink
  • Hide trash cans
  • Remove magnets, papers, items from refrigerator
  • Remove small appliances unless staged (air fryers, toasters, etc.)
  • Straighten bar stools and dining chairs
  • Clean stainless steel (no fingerprints)

Bathrooms

  • Remove personal items (toothbrushes, razors, products)
  • Remove bath mats and rugs
  • Remove shower items (bottles, loofahs, etc.)
  • Hide trash cans, tissue boxes, toilet brushes
  • Close toilet lids
  • Straighten towels (fresh, neutral if possible)
  • Clean mirrors (no streaks)

Note: We typically do not photograph separate toilet rooms — great storage spots during prep.

Living Room

  • Remove remotes, chargers, tissue boxes
  • Remove excessive décor
  • Hide pet beds and toys
  • Straighten pillows and blankets

Bedrooms

  • Make beds neatly (neutral bedding photographs best)
  • Remove clutter from dressers, nightstands, desks
  • Hide laundry hampers
  • Remove personal photos
  • Kids' rooms: organize or store toys to maximize space

Exterior

  • Remove vehicles from driveway and street view
  • Close all garage doors
  • Remove trash/recycling bins from sight
  • Blow off leaves/debris from driveway, sidewalk, patio
  • Open patio umbrellas
  • Remove grill/furniture covers
  • Straighten outdoor cushions
  • Mow lawn (seasonal)
  • Trim overgrown bushes near windows/entry
  • Clear snow (winter)

Optional Luxury Touches

  • Fresh flowers in kitchen or entry
  • Set dining table lightly (simple, elegant)
  • Turn on fireplace (if gas and safe)
  • Add a neutral throw blanket
  • Turn on pool / water features (if applicable)

Twilight Prep Checklist

For evening and twilight shoots, all standard prep applies, plus these additional steps.

Before We Arrive

  • Turn on ALL exterior lights, porch, garage, landscape, and pathway lighting
  • Replace any burnt-out bulbs (critical for twilight, dark areas won't show well)
  • Ensure driveway and walkway are clear of vehicles and debris

Exterior

  • Turn on pool lights and water features if applicable
  • Remove any visible hoses, tools, or yard equipment
  • Ensure the front door area is clean and well-lit
  • Fire pit or outdoor fireplace: lit if safe and adds ambiance

Timing

  • Twilight shoots are scheduled at a specific time, please be ready 15 minutes early
  • Weather can shift timing, we'll confirm the day of if needed
  • All sellers and pets should be off-site before we begin

Ready to Book Your Shoot?

Schedule online today and get your photos back in 24 hours.

Book Now