Professional photography is one of the most important parts of selling your home. For most buyers, the photos are their very first showing. If the home looks bright, clean, and welcoming online, they are much more likely to schedule an in-person tour.

The good news is you do not need to completely redesign your home. A few simple steps can make a huge difference in how your home photographs.

Use this checklist to get your home photo-ready.

General Photo Day Prep

Before the photographer arrives, focus on light, cleanliness, and removing distractions.

Open all curtains and blinds to bring in as much natural light as possible.
Make sure every light bulb is working.
Turn on all lights and lamps throughout the house.
Turn off ceiling fans.
Remove excess personal items and family photos.
Hide pet bowls, toys, and litter boxes.
Remove space heaters or floor fans.
Clean windows, especially ones with a view.
Put away everyday clutter. Closets and cabinets are great temporary hiding spots.
Remove workout equipment or medical equipment if possible.
Hide phone chargers, cords, and electronics.

Kitchen and Dining Area

Kitchens are one of the most important rooms buyers look at, so clean surfaces are key.

Remove washcloths and sponges from the sink.
Remove magnets from the refrigerator.
Clear dishes from the sink and countertops.
Clean countertops and appliances.
Remove mail, papers, pens, and notepads from counters.
Hide trash and recycling bins if possible.
Clear the dining table or leave just a small centerpiece.

Living Room or Family Room

The goal is to make the space feel open and inviting.

Straighten rugs and furniture.
Arrange throw pillows and blankets neatly.
Organize bookshelves.
Remove magazines and newspapers.
Hide or neatly organize children's toys.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Bedrooms and bathrooms should feel clean, simple, and relaxing.

Make all beds.
Remove anything stored under the bed that may be visible.
Put away clothes and shoes.
Tidy walk-in closets.
Clean mirrors and shower glass.
Hide personal care items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and razors.
Remove washcloths.
Set out clean matching towels.
Close toilet lids.
Remove shower squeegees.

Exterior Prep

Your exterior photos create the first impression buyers see online.

Move cars out of the driveway and away from the front of the home.
Hide garbage and recycling cans.
Remove security signs if possible.
Put away tools, toys, and yard equipment.
Neatly wind up hoses.
Close gates and garage doors.
Remove furniture covers and open patio umbrellas.
Remove pool toys and equipment.
Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and rake leaves or sticks.
Turn on fountains or water features if you have them.

One Final Tip

Think of real estate photography as preparing your home for hundreds of buyers to walk through online. The cleaner and simpler the space feels, the easier it is for buyers to picture themselves living there.

These small steps help your home photograph beautifully and create a strong first impression when your listing goes live.