How to Prepare Your Home for Property Photography

A little preparation can make a significant difference to the finished photographs.

The property does not need to look like a showroom. It should feel clean, organised and ready to be seen. Clearing everyday distractions allows the photographs to concentrate on the space, light and character of the home.

This checklist covers the things that make the biggest difference before the photographer arrives.

Start with the obvious distractions

Walk through each room and look for anything that draws attention away from the property.

Put away paperwork, chargers, remote controls, pet accessories and children’s toys. Clear coats and shoes from entrances and remove laundry, cleaning products and household bins.

There is no need to remove every personal object. A few well-chosen items can make a room feel lived in, but crowded surfaces make spaces appear smaller and less organised.

Let the light in

Open curtains and blinds unless they conceal an unattractive view or create harsh direct sunlight.

Check that lamps and ceiling lights are working. Replace failed bulbs and avoid mixing noticeably different bulb colours within the same room.

Clean windows, mirrors and reflective surfaces. Marks that are barely noticeable in everyday life can become obvious in a carefully composed photograph.

Living rooms and shared spaces

Straighten cushions, arrange chairs and remove unnecessary furniture where possible.

Television screens should be switched off. Hide visible cables, remote controls and gaming equipment. Coffee tables should be kept simple rather than completely covered or left unnaturally empty.

Make sure fireplaces are clean and arrange logs or fireside accessories neatly.

Preparing the kitchen

Kitchen worktops usually benefit from being mostly clear.

Put away washing-up liquid, cloths, draining racks, food packaging and small appliances that are not part of the room’s presentation. Remove magnets, paperwork and photographs from the fridge.

A small number of items such as a coffee machine, bowl of fruit or vase can remain if they suit the space.

Empty the bin and clear the sink before the shoot.

Bedrooms

Make each bed carefully and check that duvets, pillows and throws sit evenly.

Clear clothes, chargers, medication and drinking glasses from bedside tables. Close wardrobes and drawers and remove anything stored behind doors.

Children’s rooms do not need to lose their personality, but reducing toys and visual clutter will help the room photograph more clearly.

Bathrooms

Remove toothbrushes, toiletries, cleaning products, toilet brushes and bins.

Straighten towels, close the toilet lid and make sure mirrors, taps and shower screens are clean and dry. Check that shower curtains and blinds sit neatly.

A bathroom should look clean and usable without feeling over-dressed.

Entrances and outdoor areas

The front of the property often creates the first impression.

Move cars away from the house where possible. Hide wheelie bins, hoses, tools and children’s outdoor equipment. Sweep paths and remove obvious weeds or dead plants.

Arrange outdoor furniture and straighten cushions. If the property has substantial grounds or an important setting, consider whether aerial property photography would help show it more clearly.

The final check

Shortly before the shoot:

• Open the curtains and blinds
• Check that every bulb works
• Put away bins and cleaning products
• Straighten cushions, bedding and towels
• Clear kitchen and bathroom surfaces
• Move vehicles away from the property
• Secure pets or arrange for them to be elsewhere

Access should also be confirmed in advance, including keys, alarm instructions and any areas that need particular attention.

Preparation without over-staging

The purpose of preparation is not to disguise the property. It is to remove distractions and allow its strongest features to come through.

Good property photography should still feel truthful. The aim is to present the home clearly, consistently and at its best.

VIEW provides residential property photography across Northern Ireland. If you have a property coming to market, get in touch to discuss the shoot.