Photo & Video Preparation Checklist
What This Checklist Includes
Exterior Preparation: Steps to create a welcoming and polished look for the property’s exterior.
Interior Preparation: Guidelines for decluttering, cleaning, and staging each room to highlight its best features.
Room-Specific Tips: Detailed advice for kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, and office spaces.
Lighting and Kelvin Temp: Insights into the impact of light color on photography and how to create a cohesive lighting scheme.
Day-of-Shoot Checklist: Final preparations to ensure everything is ready for the photography session.
Interior Preparation
Declutter:
☐ Clear countertops, tables, and shelves of personal items.
☐ Store away toys, shoes, mail, and other distractions.
Deep Clean:
☐ Vacuum and mop floors.
☐ Dust all surfaces, including baseboards and ceiling fans.
☐ Wash mirrors and windows for streak-free shine.
Staging:
☐ Arrange furniture to highlight spaciousness.
☐ Add fresh flowers or simple decor for a touch of elegance.
☐ Remove personal photographs and sensitive items.
Lighting:
☐ Replace all bulbs with matching color temperatures (refer to Kelvin breakdown below).
☐ Open curtains and blinds to maximize natural light.
Repairs:
☐ Fix any visible issues, such as chipped paint or loose handles.
☐ Ensure all lights and fixtures are functioning properly.
Exterior Preparation
Landscaping:
☐ Mow the lawn.
☐ Trim hedges and trees.
☐ Remove dead plants and weeds.
☐ Sweep driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
☐ Remove any outdoor clutter (toys, garden tools, etc.).
Exterior Cleaning:
☐ Wash windows.
☐ Clean gutters if visible.
☐ Power wash siding and walkways if needed.
Staging:
☐ Arrange outdoor furniture neatly.
☐ Add fresh flowers or plants in pots for a welcoming touch.
☐ Remove vehicles from driveways and the front of the home.
☐ Turn off lawn sprinklers and water features.
Room-Specific Tips
Bedrooms:
☐ Make beds with crisp linens.
☐ Remove any personal items from nightstands.
☐ Tuck away visible cords and chargers.
Living Areas:
☐ Arrange cushions and throws neatly.
☐ Hide remote controls and clutter.
Kitchen:
☐ Clear countertops of small appliances.
☐ Arrange stools or chairs neatly.
☐ Highlight one or two focal points, such as a fruit bowl or a stylish appliance.
Bathrooms:
☐ Remove toiletries and cleaning products.
☐ Replace or fold towels neatly.
☐ Close toilet lids.
Office Spaces:
☐ Organize desks.
☐ Conceal cables and wires.
Day of the Shoot
• Double-check every room for missed items.
• Turn on all lights (with matching Kelvin temperatures).
• Ensure the property is quiet and free of distractions (pets, children, etc.).
• Confirm weather conditions for exterior shots.
By following this checklist, you’ll create a welcoming, photogenic environment that allows the property’s best features to shine. High-quality photos can make a significant difference in attracting buyers and maximizing the home’s online exposure.