Getting your home ready for a photo shoot
A quick guide to help things run smoothly (and get the best result)
A quick guide to help things run smoothly (and get the best result)
Hi, I’m Michael — I photograph homes for sale, rent, and short-stay listings across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. If you’re reading this, chances are you're getting ready for a shoot (or helping someone else who is). This guide is here to make the day easier, and help your property look its best. You don’t need to go overboard. But a bit of prep goes a long way in getting clean, professional shots that feel bright, spacious, and inviting.
Benches, tables and floors look best when they’re clear — even if it feels a bit empty in person. What looks “lived in” to us can feel cluttered or distracting in photos. We want the space to feel open, calm, and easy to imagine living in. Try to tuck away anything that isn’t essential, and take down personal items like family photos, school awards or anything that might pull focus. Buyers are trying to picture their life in the space — the less distraction, the better.
What to tidy:
Kitchen benches — remove appliances, dish racks, tea towels
Bathroom vanities — clear toothbrushes, products, bins, toilet brushes
Bedrooms — make beds neatly, clear under-bed storage
Living areas — tidy toys, remotes, cables
Take magnets and notes off the fridge
Hide bins, laundry baskets and pet bowls
No need for a deep clean, but things like windows, mirrors and shiny surfaces can show smudges or dust in photos. Just enough to make everything feel fresh and well cared for.
Focus on:
Windows, mirrors, glass doors
Floors (vacuum/mop)
Kitchen splashbacks, taps, sinks
Bathroom tiles and vanities
Good light is half the job done. We want the home to feel open, airy and bright — even if it’s a rainy day.
On the day:
Open all blinds and curtains
Turn on ceiling lights and lamps
Turn off TVs, fans, computer monitors
Replace any dead light bulbs ahead of time if you can
People will often decide how they feel about a home before they even see the inside. And the outside photo is usually the first one they’ll see online — so let’s make it a good one.
Quick checklist:
Mow lawns and sweep paths
Put away bins, hoses and tools
Remove cars from the driveway
Clean pool if you’ve got one (and put away pool toys)
Not essential — but if you’ve got time and want to go the extra mile, these can really lift the feel of a room:
Straighten cushions and add a throw to the couch if you have one
Fresh towels in the bathroom (white or neutral is best)
A bowl of fruit, a vase of flowers, or even just a clean bench with nothing on it can look great
Beds made like you’re expecting guests — hospital corners not required, but smooth and tidy is the aim
I’ll usually walk through the home before I start, and can help shift things if needed.
If you've got any pets, it’s great if they can be safely out of the way during the shoot.
You don’t need to be present for the full shoot unless you want to be — I’ll let you know once everything’s done.
Thanks for taking the time to get things ready — it really does make a difference. If you’re ever unsure about something, just ask. My goal is to make the process easy and get great photos that help the property stand out online.