How to prepare your home for professional photography

Published on February 5, 2025

by Adrian Sterling

Welcome to the world of professional photography! Whether you’re planning to put your home on the market or simply want to capture beautiful memories, getting your home professionally photographed is a great investment. However, it’s not as simple as just pointing and clicking. In order to ensure stunning and eye-catching shots, it’s important to prepare your home beforehand. So, in this article, we’ll be sharing some tips on how to prepare your home for professional photography. Let’s get started!How to prepare your home for professional photography

Declutter and Cleanse

The first and foremost step to prepare your home for professional photography is to declutter and cleanse. This includes removing any unnecessary items, especially from countertops, tables, and shelves. Clearing these spaces will not only make your rooms appear bigger and more spacious, but it will also allow the photographer to focus on the important elements of the room. Additionally, make sure to give your home a thorough cleaning before the photoshoot. This will ensure that your home looks its best in the photographs.

Maximize Natural Light

One of the most important aspects of professional photography is lighting. Natural light is the best option for creating bright and welcoming photos. So, make sure to open all blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. If you have heavy drapes or dark curtains, consider replacing them with lighter options or simply removing them altogether. Also, make sure to turn on all the lights in your home, even in rooms that may not seem important, as this will provide a warm and inviting glow throughout your home.

Showcase Your Home’s Best Features

When it comes to professional photography, it’s important to highlight the best features of your home. This could be a beautiful fireplace, grand staircase, or a stunning view from the windows. Make sure to declutter and decorate these areas to make them stand out. Don’t be afraid to bring in some props, such as flowers, throw pillows, or even a bowl of fruit, to add some color and character to your photos.

Set the Scene

In order to create an inviting and warm atmosphere in your photos, it’s important to set the scene. This means arranging furniture in a way that showcases the flow and layout of your home. For example, if you have a cozy reading nook, make sure to have a chair, side table, and some books displayed. This will help potential buyers or viewers imagine themselves living in the space.

Pay Attention to Details

While it’s important to declutter and depersonalize your home to make it more appealing to a wider audience, it’s also important to pay attention to details that can add personality to your photos. This could include a beautiful centerpiece on the dining table, a vase of flowers in the entryway, or a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen. These small details can make a big difference in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your photos.

Choose the Right Time of Day

The timing of your photoshoot can play a big role in the quality of your photographs. The best time of day for natural lighting is typically the morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too harsh. If you’re unable to schedule the photoshoot during these times, make sure to communicate with your photographer and they can use lighting techniques to create the desired effect.

Communicate with your Photographer

Last but not least, make sure to communicate with your photographer before the photoshoot. They are professionals and have a trained eye for capturing the best angles and compositions. Share your vision and any specific details you want to highlight in the photos. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for their advice or input on how to make your home look its best in the photos.

In conclusion, preparing your home for professional photography is essential to ensure beautiful and eye-catching photos. By decluttering and cleansing, maximizing natural light, showcasing your home’s best features, setting the scene, paying attention to details, choosing the right time of day, and communicating with your photographer, you can truly make your home shine in the photographs. Good luck with your photoshoot!