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HOW TO GET THE BEST RESULTS FROM YOUR PHOTOS OR VIDEOS

Important Steps for the Most Successful Photographs.

Pre-Shoot Preparation Guide

Please complete these tasks prior to your scheduled session.

General Interiors & Lighting

  • Declutter surfaces: Clear off all flat surfaces (tables, dressers, desks). "Less is more."

  • Lighting check: Ensure every lamp and fixture has a working bulb.

  • Color temperature: Verify all bulbs in a single room match (e.g., do not mix "warm white" with "cool white" daylight bulbs).

  • Windows: Clean all glass inside and out to ensure streak-free light.

  • Hide utility items: Store away floor fans, space heaters, humidifiers, air purifiers, paper shredders, and visible trash cans.

  • Manage cords: Conceal power strips, phone chargers, and loose cables behind furniture.

  • Personal security: Securely store all firearms, knives/bows, expensive jewelry, and sensitive paperwork (bills, passwords, IDs).

  • Depersonalize: Remove family heirlooms or specific items you do not wish to be public.

Kitchen & Dining

  • Clear the counters: Remove everything, including knife blocks, spices, cooking oils, and soap dispensers.

  • Appliances: High-end appliances (like a KitchenAid mixer) are acceptable, but standard toasters and blenders should be hidden.

  • The Fridge: Remove all magnets, photos, and flyers from the refrigerator doors.

  • The Sink: Ensure the sink is completely empty. Hide sponges, scrubbers, and dish soap.

  • Pet Stations: Remove dog/cat food bowls and mats.

Living Areas, Bedrooms & Offices

  • Bookcases: Straighten shelves and remove loose clutter; hide magazines and remote controls.

  • Beds: Make all beds neatly (hotel standard). Ensure pillows are fluffed and bed skirts are straight.

  • Bedside: Check that bedside lamps are working and not set on a timer.

  • Kids & Hobbies: Store away toys, trampolines, ride-on cars, and large exercise equipment.

  • Walls: Remove excessive wall decor (1-2 tasteful pieces are fine) to make the room feel larger.

Bathrooms & Laundry

  • Surfaces: Clear counters completely. Remove all hygiene items (toothbrushes, shampoo bottles, razors, bathrobes).

  • Sanitize: Clean soap scum from glass shower doors and mirrors.

  • Linens: Hang fresh, matching towels neatly.

  • Floor: Remove the trash can, toilet brush, plunger, and bath mats.

  • Toilet: Replace the toilet paper with a fresh roll and put the lid down.

  • Laundry Room: Hide detergents, hampers, and loose clothes.

Exterior & Curb Appeal

  • Landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and clean up any pet waste.

  • Patio: Arrange outdoor furniture and clean cushions.

  • Driveway: Remove basketball hoops, hoses, and ensure no cars, boats, or RVs are parked in front of the home.

The "30-Minute Countdown"

Please perform these final steps 30 minutes before the photographer arrives:

  • Lighting: Turn ON all overhead lights, lamps, and under-cabinet lighting.

  • Fans: Turn OFF all ceiling fans.

  • Windows: Close all windows; Open all blinds and curtains to let natural light in. (Tip: If a neighbor’s wall is visible, angle blinds slightly to let light in while obscuring the view).

  • Pets: Contain pets in the garage or a specific room that will not be photographed (or will be photographed last).

Please ensure the property is fully prepared before the photographer arrives. To maintain our schedule, the photographer cannot assist with moving furniture or staging personal items. If the home is not photo-ready, we reserve the right to cancel the appointment and charge a trip fee for rescheduling.

A Quick Tip: We generally do not photograph the interior of standard closets, making them the perfect place to stash clutter. If you have a luxury walk-in closet you specifically want featured, please let the photographer know upon arrival.