Great property photography starts before the photographer arrives. Twenty minutes of preparation makes the difference between photos that get scrolled past and photos that get the calls. Here's the room-by-room checklist we share with every agency we work with.
This guide is from Michael Turzynski, founder of Turn Key Photography. Michael spent seven years as a lettings negotiator and property manager, managing thousands of listings across London. He understands the agent's perspective inside out - the frustration of waiting days for photos, the pressure to get listings live fast, and the impact of visual quality on conversion rates. In 2018, he built Turn Key Photography to be the service he always wanted: fast, reliable, and priced fairly. The checklist below is based on real-world experience working with hundreds of London agencies.
The 10-minute essentials (every room)
- Turn every light on - including lamps and feature lighting. Mixed natural and warm light gives a welcoming feel.
- Open all blinds and curtains so rooms feel bright and the windows aren't black voids.
- Clear every surface - worktops, coffee tables, bedside tables and shelves. Less is more.
- Hide the everyday - bins, cables, chargers, remotes, toiletries, washing-up and pet bowls.
- Straighten and square up - cushions plumped, beds made neatly, chairs pushed in.
Kitchen
- Clear the worktops completely - keep one or two tasteful items (a plant, a fruit bowl) at most.
- Remove fridge magnets, notes and tea towels on rails.
- Wipe down surfaces and hobs so they don't catch glare.
Living & reception rooms
- Tidy media units - coil or hide cables, switch the TV off (a black screen photographs better than a paused show).
- Add a small touch of styling: a throw, a couple of books, fresh flowers.
Bedrooms
- Make the beds with neat, matching linen - hotel-style if you can.
- Clear bedside tables and the floor; tuck away clothes, shoes and laundry baskets.
Bathrooms
- Remove all toiletries, toothbrushes and bath toys; put the toilet lid down.
- Hang fresh, neatly folded towels and add a quick polish to mirrors and taps.
Outside & kerb appeal
- Move cars off the driveway and the frontage - a clear exterior makes a stronger lead image.
- Put bins out of sight, tidy the garden, and clear toys, tools and hoses.
- Sweep paths and wipe the front door - it's the first thing buyers see.
The little things that lift a listing
Exterior shots are weather-dependent - but on our Premium package we can replace dull skies and blend exposures so every image looks its best. Pairing photos with an accurate 2D floorplan and, for standout homes, a video tour or virtual walkthrough consistently drives more enquiries.
See examples of our work in the portfolio.