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PREPARATION CHECKLIST

One of the most important things to do before your photographer arrives is to prepare your property. Below is a room-by-room checklist as well as tips for getting the exterior ready.

DAY OF SHOOT
  • Open all curtains and blinds 
  • Remove cars from the driveway 
  • Turn on all interior lights inside including lamps
  • Turn on any water features/lights 
  • Turn ON the exterior accent lights including porch
TIPS
  • Create space: Remove all unnecessary furniture - less is more!
  • Let professionals clean the whole space
  • Sort books according to their size 
  • De-personalize: Hide family-related photos and mementos 
  • Remove preferences:  Sports, hobbies or brands, and trophies 
  • Remove trashcans and waste baskets 
EXTERIOR
  • Remove cars from the driveway
  • Sweep walkway/driveway 
  • Straighten all furniture 
  • Turn off sprinklers 
  • Put away all garden tools and hoses, garbage cans, and mobile grills 
  • Remove any leaves, sticks, and branches on the lawn 
  • Close windows and doors
  • Open all window shutters and shades 
  • Mow and rake the yard 
  • Clean/replace welcome mats 
INTERIOR
  • Turn all lights on and replace all burned-out bulbs. (Don't forget under-cabinet, stove, appliances!)
  • Hide all cleaning items (bottles, soaps, scrubbing brushes) 
  • Turn fans off 
  • Open all curtains and blinds 
  • Turn OFF all TVs
  • Secure all pets before the photographer entered the home 
KITCHEN
  • Remove all items from the refrigerator door
  • Store food in cabinets 
  • De-clutter all counters & stove
  • Stow small appliances
  • Hide all soap, dish towels, sponges
  • Clear sink
  • Organize and minimize all items on shelves 
  • Remove all signs of pets bowls, toys, leash, etc. 
DINING ROOM
  • Straighten & push in all chairs 
  • Add centerpiece or candles
  • Set the table for dinner
  • Add flowers 
BEDROOMS
  • Make all beds
  • Arrange & minimize all pillows
  • Put away all clothing & shoes
  • Clean under the bed
  • Clean/clear all surfaces of clutter including tissue boxes, family photos 
  • Remove laundry baskets  
BATHROOMS
  • Hang fresh towels
  • Clear counters of toiletries 
  • Clean mirrors 
  • Clean toilet and lid
  • Remove all items from the tub and shower 
  • Remove all lime and drop marks from fixtures 
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