Cleaner Photos
Less clutter means brighter, more polished listing images.
Before the Shoot
Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography
A clean, bright and well-prepared home photographs better, attracts more buyers and helps your listing make a stronger first impression online.
Why Preparation Matters
Professional real estate photography can only show the property at its best if the home is ready before the session starts. Small details like clutter, cords, personal items, parked cars or unmade beds can reduce the impact of otherwise beautiful listing photos.
Use the checklist below before your appointment to help the property look clean, spacious and move-in ready.
More Spacious Look
Open surfaces and tidy rooms help spaces feel larger online.
Faster Shoot
A photo-ready home helps the session run smoothly and on time.
Real Estate Photography Preparation Checklist
Follow these steps before the photographer arrives for the best possible result.
Exterior
- Remove vehicles from the driveway and front of the home
- Move garbage bins out of sight
- Hide hoses, tools, toys and yard equipment
- Sweep porch, driveway and walkways
- Mow the lawn and tidy the landscaping if needed
- Clean the pool and surrounding area if applicable
Interior
- Declutter all rooms and clear visible surfaces
- Open blinds or shades to let in natural light
- Turn on all lights and replace burnt-out bulbs
- Make all beds neatly
- Hide family photos and personal documents
- Put away clothing, bags, toys, chargers and loose cables
- Turn off TVs, computer monitors and ceiling fans
Kitchen
- Clear countertops as much as possible
- Remove magnets, notes and photos from the fridge
- Put away dish soap, sponges and drying racks
- Store small appliances if not needed for styling
- Clean appliance fronts and reflective surfaces
- Remove pet bowls, towels and extra rugs
Bathroom
- Clear all countertops of toiletries
- Close toilet lids
- Remove trash bins, brushes, bath mats and used towels
- Wipe mirrors, glass and chrome surfaces
- Place a fresh full roll of toilet paper
- Keep the shower and tub area clean and simple
Bedrooms & Living Areas
- Smooth bedding and arrange pillows neatly
- Clear nightstands and dressers
- Hide remote controls, toys and small personal items
- Straighten chairs, cushions and decor
- Minimize items under beds or visible in corners
Laundry & Utility Spaces
- Remove visible laundry and baskets
- Store detergent and cleaning supplies
- Wipe washer and dryer surfaces
- Keep the floor area clear and uncluttered
Day of the Shoot Tips
Be Ready Before Arrival
The home should be fully prepared before the scheduled start time. Photography time is most effective when it is spent capturing the property, not moving items around.
Plan for Pets & People
If possible, keep pets out of the photo areas and limit movement in rooms while they are being photographed.
Think Like a Buyer
The goal is not to make the home look lived-in. The goal is to make it feel clean, bright, spacious and appealing to future buyers.
Home Preparation for Real Estate Photography in Toronto & GTA
This checklist is designed for homeowners, agents, landlords and Airbnb hosts who want stronger real estate photos in Toronto and the GTA. A well-prepared property helps professional photography, video and drone content look cleaner, more spacious and more attractive in online listings.
Who This Preparation Guide Is For
This page is useful before real estate listing photography, condo photography, luxury home shoots, townhouse sessions, rental property shoots and short-term rental content.
Ready for Your Real Estate Photo Session?
Once the property is prepared, you can book your shoot online or review available packages.