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.
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.
On the day: arrange access in advance (key with a neighbour, on-site meeting, or tenant coordination), and allow up to 90 minutes for a full package. We can't move furniture or be responsible for the property's condition, so the more that's ready when we arrive, the better the result.
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.