This guide is designed for realtors, sellers, property managers, and Airbnb hosts. Follow these tips to ensure your property looks its absolute best before the photographer arrives.

1. General Preparation (Whole Home)

Declutter every room including countertops, shelves, tables, and dressers
Hide visible personal items, toiletries, paperwork, and trash
Turn on all interior lights
Replace burnt-out bulbs (matching color temperature is ideal)
Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light
Remove floor fans, portable heaters, or small appliances
Hide visible wires or power strips where possible
Turn off TVs and computer screens
Clean all glass, mirrors, and reflective surfaces
Make sure the home is clean and vacuumed
Straighten cushions and fluff pillows

Tip: Less is more — clean, simple spaces photograph best.

2. Living Room

Remove remotes, chargers, and personal items from surfaces
Clear coffee and side tables
Hide toys, extra blankets, and pet beds
Ensure furniture layout feels open and unobstructed

3. Kitchen

Clear all countertops completely
Remove dish racks, sponges, soaps, and refrigerator magnets
Clean stainless-steel appliances to remove fingerprints and smudges
Put away small appliances (toasters, coffee makers, etc.)
Remove trash cans from view
Clean the sink and leave it empty

Tip: A bowl of fresh fruit or one simple plant is okay — keep it minimal.

4. Dining Area

Set table simply or leave it clean and bare
Straighten all chairs so they are evenly spaced
Remove highchairs, booster seats, or extra furniture

5. Bedrooms

Make beds hotel-style with crisp, clean linens
Remove clutter from nightstands — keep only a lamp if anything
Hide clothes, hampers, and personal items in closets
Clear any items stored under the bed that may be visible

6. Bathrooms

Remove all towels unless they are decorative and freshly laundered
Hide all toiletries, toothbrushes, soaps, and cleaning supplies
Close toilet lids
Remove bath mats
Clean mirrors and shower glass until streak-free

Tip: A single plant, candle, or fresh towel set is fine — keep it simple.

7. Exterior

Move all cars out of the driveway
Hide trash cans, garden hoses, tools, and pool equipment
Sweep all walkways and patios
Tidy outdoor furniture and straighten cushions
Remove grill covers and wipe down grills
Clean and clear the pool area

For condos: Clear balconies and remove all outdoor clutter.

8. Pets & Personal Items

Hide pet bowls, toys, crates, and litter boxes
Secure pets in a separate room or arrange for them to be elsewhere during the shoot
Remove visible medications, personal documents, and mail

9. Airbnb / Rental Prep

Make all beds hotel-style with neutral, attractive bedding
Add a few simple decorative items (plants, candles, throw pillows)
Create a clean, welcoming staged look without personal clutter

10. Day of the Shoot

Photographer will arrive on time and do a quick walkthrough
Small last-minute adjustments may be suggested — this is normal
HDR photography takes multiple exposures per room for the best result
You do not need to stay for the entire shoot
Final images delivered within 24–48 hours

How to Prepare Your Property for the Best Possible Photos