Free resource
The pre-shoot checklist.
A few small things make a big difference. Prep any property with this list so your shoot goes smoothly and every room looks its best.
Lighting
- Turn on all interior and exterior lights — floor lamps, table lamps, under-cabinet, stovetop, bedside lamps, ceiling fan lights, and other secondary sources.
- Make sure every bulb works; replace any that are burnt out.
Bathrooms
- Lower all toilet seats.
- Clear countertops of non-decorative items.
- Remove toiletries from the bath / shower area — curtains and doors are often opened to show off tile and fixtures.
Kitchen
- Remove all non-decorative items from counters — dish soap, paper towels, phones, cleaning supplies, etc.
- Clear magnets, photos, and artwork from the refrigerator.
Front & back yards
- Take down flags.
- Put hoses and equipment away; organize the patio and deck.
- Pick up pet waste, put away garbage bins, and tidy the yard.
- Freshly cut the lawn and tidy the landscaping.
- Remove pool cleaning equipment and make sure the pool is clean.
Pets
- Keep pets out of the way during the shoot — backyard, garage, or unfinished basement.
- Put away pet supplies: food and water bowls, crates, toys, etc.
Window treatments
- Open curtains and blinds all the way in every room — blinds should be twisted open, not pulled up.
Driveway & vehicles
- Make sure no vehicles are in the driveway or on the street in front of the home.
- Close garage doors.
- Make sure the driveway is clean and clear.
Staging
- Place unobtrusive decorative items on counters and tables — fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, pottery, vases, or new candles.
Yard signs
- We're happy to remove for-sale signs from the yard if you'd rather they stay out of exterior shots.
Neighbors
- Give the next-door neighbors a heads-up so their yards are clean, cars are out of the driveway, and garage doors are closed.
Holiday decor
- Remove all holiday decor — pumpkins, trees, menorahs, lights, door wreaths, etc.
Everything else
- Turn ceiling fans off.
- Put all personal items away.
- Make the house as clean as possible — streak-free mirrors, swept and mopped floors.
Thank you for choosing Alpha Visual for your real estate marketing — we look forward to working with you. Please reach out before your shoot if you have any questions.
Property prepped? Let's shoot it.
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