How to prepare your Home for Real Estate Photography
step-by-step guide
At Kirvan Photography + Film, a Thunder Bay-based media company, we specialize in creating stunning photography, videography, and drone work for both residential and commercial real estate. Whether you’re selling a home or showcasing a commercial property, presenting it at its best is crucial. Recently, we completed a real estate photography shoot on Lyle Street in Thunder Bay, and we thought it would be helpful to share some tips on how to prepare your home for real estate photography.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensuring your property looks its best in every shot.
Step 1: Clean and Declutter
For the Lyle Street shoot, the first instruction we gave to the homeowners was to make sure their home was absolutely spotless. No clutter, no mess—showroom ready. Clean every room thoroughly, including hidden spots like under furniture, inside closets, and on countertops. A tidy and organized space allows potential buyers to visualize their own belongings in the home.
- Remove personal items – This includes family photos, children’s toys, and paperwork. Potential buyers want to envision their lives in the space, not yours.
- Clear kitchen counters – Keep it simple by leaving only essential items like a small coffee maker or a decorative bowl of fruit.
- Make beds neatly – Ensure there are no wrinkles in the bedding.
Step 2: Move Large Items
The second major step is moving large items that might distract from the beauty of the home itself. This is especially important for creating clear, wide shots. On Lyle Street, we advised the homeowner to move their car from the driveway and any outdoor vehicles or tools from the garage.
- Remove cars from driveways – Not only does this make the exterior look cleaner, but it also lets buyers see the full space available.
- Clear the yard – If you have large outdoor items like a shed, trampoline, or even gardening tools, put them away. If you’re in the middle of renovations, like on the Lyle Street property, ensure dumpsters or construction materials are hidden from view.
- Rearrange bulky furniture – Some rooms might feel cramped if filled with oversized furniture. Rearranging or temporarily removing large pieces will make spaces appear bigger and more inviting.
Step 3: Fine-Tune the Details
Now that the big tasks are out of the way, it’s time to perfect the small but essential details. These finishing touches can make a significant difference in the photos. We always advise homeowners to check for small things that are easy to overlook but can detract from the final image.
- Close all windows – Make sure blinds or curtains are evenly drawn. This helps regulate the lighting and makes rooms appear cleaner.
- Lower toilet seats – This is a simple, yet often overlooked tip. Closed toilet lids create a more polished look in bathroom photos.
- Put away cleaning supplies – Make sure no mops, vacuum cleaners, or dish soaps are left in view. You want your home to appear lived in, but not in the middle of chores.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for real estate photography doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require attention to detail. By following these simple steps—cleaning, decluttering, removing large items, and fine-tuning the details—you’ll be on your way to making your property shine in its photos.
At Kirvan Photography + Film, we work closely with homeowners to ensure the best results, just like we did with our recent shoot on Lyle Street in Thunder Bay. Whether you’re selling a cozy home or a commercial property, professional real estate photography can help you attract potential buyers and close deals faster. If you need help preparing your home or want to schedule a shoot, feel free to contact us!
Your home’s first impression starts with the photos—let’s make them count!
