Preparing your house for professional photos
This guide is here to help you get the very best out of your property photography appointment. It’s not a strict “must-do” list—just helpful suggestions to make your home shine in photos and attract potential buyers.
On the Day of Your Appointment
When your photographer arrives, they’ll usually ask for a quick tour. This is the perfect time to mention any concerns.
Your photographer is there to help showcase your property and will work with you to overcome any challenges.
After your walk-through, they’ll plan how to capture each room in the best light.
External (Front of House)
✔ Move cars away from driveway/front of house
✔ Mow lawns, weed, rake leaves, sweep paths
✔ Remove toys, hoses, bins, and garden clutter
✔ Display hanging baskets, tidy planters
✔ Close garage doors
✔ Jet wash driveway and paths
✔ Adding drone can get a better elevation
Kitchen
✔ Clear and clean worktops (leave only kettle/toaster if you wish)
✔ Remove notice boards, fridge magnets, calendars
✔ Put away dish racks, chopping boards, tea towels, soaps, cleaning products, mops, bins
✔ Clean surfaces and appliances until they shine
 
Family Room
✔ Put away remotes, consoles, DVDs, and clutter
✔ Hide visible cables
✔ Store away toys
✔ Open blinds and check lighting
 
 
 
 
Living Room
✔ Small fresh flowers
✔ Open blinds/curtains to maximise space and light
✔ Declutter: remove bulky furniture, personal photos, ornaments, mugs, magazines, TV remotes
✔ Hide all visible cables
✔ Check all lamps and lighting
✔ Straighten chairs and cushions
Bedrooms
✔ Clear toys, clothes, and personal items
✔ Make beds with fresh sheets, plump pillows, and neat cushions
✔ Remove clutter under beds and on wardrobes
✔ Clear bedside tables (move chargers, glasses, jewellery, tissue boxes)
✔ Straighten and tidy all surfaces
 
Sun Lounge / Conservatory
✔ Open all blinds to showcase light and views
✔ Create a relaxed, airy feel
✔ Hide cables and excess items
 
 
 
 
 
Dining Room
✔ Consider a simple table setting or centrepiece (fruit bowl, flowers)
✔ Neatly arrange chairs around table
✔ Ensure all lighting works
✔ Remove non-dining items
 
 
 
Bathrooms / WC / Ensuite
✔ Toilet lids down
✔ Clear counters (toothbrushes, medication, deodorant, etc.)
✔ Remove floor mats, bins, laundry baskets, scales, extra toilet rolls
✔ Fresh clean towels neatly folded or hung
✔ Clear showers/baths of shampoo, soaps, toys
✔ Clean mirrors and glass
Garden / Outdoor Space
✔ Wipe down outdoor furniture, fluff cushions
✔ Remove toys, bins, washing lines, and clothes pegs
✔ Fill bird feeders (adds life and charm)
✔ Sweep/rake paths and patio
✔ Jet wash paving if needed