Shoot-Day Checklist · For Realtors & Sellers
Home Preparation for Real Estate Photography
A complete room-by-room prep checklist for Metro Vancouver real estate photography shoots. Share this guide with sellers before shoot day — the difference between a rushed home and a prepped one is the difference between average listing photos and hero images that sell.
Exterior & Curb Appeal
- Mow the lawn, edge walkways, sweep driveway and porch
- Remove garbage bins, recycling, garden hoses and pet items from view
- Park all vehicles off the driveway and away from the front of the home
- Trim overgrown hedges blocking windows or the front entry
- Clean windows (inside and out) — dirty glass shows up in HDR photos
- Refresh mulch, plant fresh seasonal flowers near the front door
- Turn on every exterior light — porch, path, garage, backyard — 30 min before shoot
Whole-Home Prep (Every Room)
- Turn ON every interior light — every lamp, every fixture, closet lights
- Replace burnt-out bulbs with matching colour temperature (warm white 2700K throughout)
- Open all blinds and curtains fully to let natural light in
- Hide all cords, chargers, wires and power bars
- Remove personal photos, awards, certificates and religious items
- Turn OFF ceiling fans, TVs and computer monitors
- Close toilet lids in every bathroom
- Hide all pet food, litter boxes, beds, toys and leashes
Kitchen
- Clear countertops — leave only 1-2 curated items (e.g. fruit bowl, kettle)
- Remove fridge magnets, notes, calendars and children's artwork
- Hide dish soap, sponges, drying racks and paper towels
- Empty and hide sink dishes; polish stainless steel and faucets
- Push all bar stools in flush to the island or peninsula
- Store small appliances (toaster, coffee maker) out of sight if possible
Living, Dining & Family Rooms
- Fluff sofa cushions and straighten throws symmetrically
- Remove remote controls, magazines and personal items from coffee tables
- Style coffee/side tables with 1-2 books and a simple decor piece
- Straighten wall art so it hangs level
- Vacuum carpets and rugs — visible vacuum lines look clean in photos
Bedrooms
- Make every bed with matching pillows and a clean, wrinkle-free duvet
- Clear nightstands — leave only a lamp and one decor item per side
- Close closet doors; if walk-in, tidy and evenly space hanging items
- Remove laundry hampers, ironing boards and personal items from view
- Store shoes, slippers and clothing off the floor
Bathrooms
- Clear all counters — hide toothbrushes, soap, razors, medications
- Fresh, folded towels hung symmetrically (spa-style rolled towels work well)
- Remove floor mats, scales, bathrobes and cleaning products
- Polish mirrors, faucets and glass shower doors
- Close toilet lids and remove toilet brushes and plungers from view
Outdoor Living, Balcony & Deck
- Wipe down patio furniture and arrange cushions neatly
- Sweep the deck or balcony; remove BBQ covers and hose reels
- Uncover pools and hot tubs; skim leaves and debris
- Set the dining or lounge scene — a couple of glasses on the table adds lifestyle appeal
- Store gardening tools, kids' toys and pet items in the garage
FAQ
Shoot-Day Prep Questions
How long does home preparation for real estate photography take?
Budget 2-4 hours for a well-maintained home, or a full day if the property needs deep cleaning, decluttering or minor exterior refresh. Starting the night before the shoot is ideal — light gets set, beds get made, and last-minute items get hidden the morning of.
Should I stage the home before the real estate photography shoot?
For occupied homes, thorough decluttering and light styling is usually enough. For vacant properties, physical staging is ideal but virtual staging ($15 per image) is a faster, more affordable alternative that delivers designer-finished MLS photos.
Do we need to move furniture for the photographer?
Usually no — a good real estate photographer will style compositions around existing furniture placement. If a specific piece is oversized or blocking a key view, they'll suggest small moves on shoot day.
What time of day is best for real estate photography in Metro Vancouver?
Interior shoots are best mid-morning to early afternoon when natural light is even. Exterior hero shots often work best at golden hour or twilight, especially for view homes in Vancouver, West Vancouver and waterfront listings in Delta and White Rock.
Ready for Shoot Day?
Lock in your Metro Vancouver real estate photography shoot — listing photos delivered within 12 hours of the completed shoot.