In real estate, a picture truly can be worth a thousand words—or even thousands of dollars. When selling a home, great photography goes beyond just snapping a few rooms; it’s about capturing a lifestyle, a feeling, and a promise of what life could be like in that space. Getting the most out of a property’s photography requires a little preparation, a bit of staging, and some know-how to bring out its very best.

Whether you’re a real estate agent, photographer, or seller, this checklist will guide you through the essential steps to prepare a property for those perfect shots that will stop potential buyers mid-scroll.

1. Declutter to Create an Inviting Space

When it comes to real estate photography, less is definitely more. Personal items, excess furniture, and knick-knacks can make a room feel crowded and distract buyers from the property’s features.

• Clear surfaces of items like kitchen appliances, toiletries, and personal decor.
• Tidy up shelves by removing clutter and limiting items to one or two decorative pieces per shelf.
• Reduce furniture, if necessary, to make rooms feel more open and inviting.
• Store away personal items such as family photos or kids’ toys, so buyers can more easily picture their own lives in the home.

2. Deep Clean the Entire Home

A spotless home not only looks better in person but also in photos. Every surface, nook, and corner should be sparkling clean for the best results.

• Dust all surfaces, including shelves, counters, and furniture.
• Clean the floors, carpets, and rugs to remove any stains or dirt.
• Polish windows and mirrors for a crystal-clear shine—natural light bounces better off clean windows.
• Wipe down appliances to remove fingerprints and smudges.
• Scrub bathrooms thoroughly. Make sure all tiles, sinks, and bathtubs are gleaming.

3. Enhance Lighting and Maximize Natural Light

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of real estate photography. Proper lighting creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that attracts buyers.

• Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.
• Turn on all interior lights to add warmth and prevent shadows.
• Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs with high-wattage, white bulbs to ensure consistency in lighting throughout the property.
• Consider additional lighting for darker areas—standalone lamps can add warmth and charm.

4. Stage the Space with Purpose

Staging can make a huge difference in helping potential buyers see themselves in the home. Even small changes can transform a room.

• Arrange furniture thoughtfully, creating pathways that make rooms feel spacious and functional.
• Add simple decor, such as fresh flowers, throw pillows, or a cozy blanket, to add warmth.
• Focus on lifestyle elements: in the kitchen, display a bowl of fresh fruit; in the bathroom, add a neatly folded towel; in the bedroom, make the bed with soft linens.

For empty homes, consider virtual staging. Virtual staging allows you to digitally place furniture and decor into photos, giving potential buyers a clearer vision of the home’s possibilities.

5. Showcase Curb Appeal

The home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see, and that first impression matters!

• Tidy up the landscaping by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and removing any weeds.
• Power wash walkways, driveways, and porches to remove dirt and grime.
• Clean the windows and add a fresh coat of paint to doors or shutters, if needed.
• Add a few welcoming touches, like a potted plant by the door or a clean doormat.

6. Eliminate Reflections and Distractions

One detail that’s often overlooked is the impact of reflections in windows, mirrors, or glossy surfaces. These can easily capture the photographer or reflect clutter.

• Check reflections in mirrors, glass doors, and polished surfaces to avoid unwanted distractions.
• Adjust angles or reposition objects if you notice reflections or unsightly elements.

This attention to detail can make the photos feel more professional and polished.

7. Highlight Unique Features

Every property has standout features that deserve to be showcased, whether it’s a fireplace, built-in bookshelves, a cozy reading nook, or a scenic view from the window. Draw attention to these by preparing them specifically for photos.

• Stage unique features like fireplaces with a neatly arranged set of logs, or style bookshelves with a few decorative pieces.
• Frame views intentionally to capture scenic backdrops, such as a city skyline or garden, making these the focus of the shot.
• Add complementary touches like a cozy chair by the reading nook or a few books on the coffee table.

Highlighting these features gives personality to the property and helps it stand out from the competition.

8. Capture the Right Angle

Real estate photos should provide an accurate perspective of each space without distortion.

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire room, creating a sense of spaciousness.
• Shoot from eye level or a bit above to avoid awkward angles or a distorted sense of space.
• Center shots on each room’s focal point to make the layout clear and inviting.

Photographers can also walk through the property beforehand to identify the best angles for each room, ensuring every shot has a purpose.

9. Add Finishing Touches for a Lived-In Look

Adding small details that bring warmth to the space helps buyers visualize it as a home, not just a house.

• Place a few personal touches, like a coffee table book, a potted plant, or a bowl of fruit, to add warmth without cluttering.
• Smooth out bedsheets and fluff pillows for a welcoming look in bedrooms.
• Add fresh flowers in key areas, like the kitchen or living room, to create an inviting atmosphere.

These little details can make a big difference in creating an emotional connection for potential buyers.

10. Final Walkthrough Before Photos

Before the photographer starts, do a last-minute walkthrough of the property to catch any missed details.

• Check all lights, blinds, and curtains to make sure they’re set just right.
• Look for any items that might have been missed, such as an out-of-place object or a hidden cord.
• Make sure each room is picture-perfect, with nothing out of place and each area set up to look its best.

This final check ensures everything is ready, so the photographer can capture each room at its absolute best.

Why This Checklist Matters

Great real estate photography is about creating an emotional connection. Buyers don’t just want to see rooms—they want to imagine their lives unfolding in those spaces. By following this checklist, you can set the stage for photography that not only captures the beauty of a home but also tells a story that resonates with potential buyers.

So, whether you’re preparing for an upcoming photo shoot or looking to improve your listing presentation, these tips will help make each shot memorable and inviting. Remember, every detail counts, and a little preparation goes a long way in making the property irresistible to buyers.