Why Pre-shoot Home Prep Matters:
Setting the Stage for Exceptional Listing Photos
Great listing photos don’t just capture a property — they shape the story buyers see first.
Before anyone steps foot inside, the visuals have already made an impression. A well-prepared home photographs beautifully, invites more showings, and can even help drive stronger offers.
At Birchmont Media, we know that a little preparation goes a long way. The camera sees everything — reflections in glass, clutter on counters, cords by the TV — and these small distractions can take focus away from the home’s best features.
This is why we encourage every agent and seller to take the time to make the home “photo ready.”
The Power of Presentation
When a home is decluttered, clean, and styled with intention, photography does what it’s meant to do: highlight light, space, and flow.
Buyers connect emotionally when the imagery feels calm and aspirational — and this starts well before your photographer arrives.
Many agents and designers who understand this deeply, will routinely recommend professional home staging to their sellers. For a number of reasons including timing, budget, and availability, not all properties can be professionally staged. As a result (and while not ideal), a property must be photographed with the existing furniture, and the seller’s personal items still in the home.
These steps will help you get the home “photo ready” and set the stage for capturing beautiful property images.
Clean and uncluttered space photographed by Birchmont Media
Curb Appeal Counts: Exterior Prep
A few steps can make a major difference:
Park vehicles on the street, away from the property
Tuck away garbage bins, hoses, and outdoor toys
Clear walkways and patios of debris, tidy flower beds, sweep leaves and mow lawns
Outdoor furniture and grills - Uncover them
BONUS: Clean windows - nothing ruins a shot of a beautifully kitchen faster than a dirty window view
Every detail you refine outside helps create a clean, inviting first impression.
Less Is More: Interior Prep
Inside, aim for open surfaces and natural light. Before the shoot:
Hide all personal items and toiletries
Clear countertops, nightstands, and vanities
Remove small rugs and trash cans
Hide cords and tuck away pet items
Make all beds and straighten curtains and shades
A simple, clutter-free environment photographs larger, brighter, and more polished.
Day-of Tips for a Smooth Shoot
On shoot day, lights on, fans off, people and pets out of sight — these small details keep the visuals consistent and distraction-free.
We’ll take care of lighting adjustments, composition, and suggesting small tweaks, but your preparation ensures every frame looks its best.
The Result
When the home is fully ready, we can focus on capturing what matters most — the light, the design, and the story of the space.
A well-prepped home isn’t just easier to photograph; it translates into results — more clicks, more showings, and faster offers.
Birchmont Media
Capturing Spaces + Elevating Your Brand
Last updated: 01-04-2026