How to Prepare Your Home for Professional Listing Photos

Professional photos are often a buyer’s first impression of a home. With most buyers starting their search online, high-quality images can make the difference between a showing request and a listing that gets overlooked. Preparing your home properly before photo day ensures your property is shown at its absolute best.

The first step is decluttering and depersonalizing. Remove excess furniture, personal photos, and items on countertops or shelves. Clean, open spaces photograph better and help buyers imagine themselves living in the home rather than feeling like they are touring someone else’s space.

Next, focus on deep cleaning and small touch-ups. Clean windows to maximize natural light, vacuum and mop floors, and wipe down all surfaces. Simple fixes like replacing burnt-out light bulbs, tightening cabinet handles, and touching up scuffed walls can make a big visual difference in photos.

Lighting is critical for professional images. Open all curtains and blinds, turn on interior lights, and replace bulbs with consistent, warm lighting where possible. Bright, well-lit rooms appear larger and more inviting, while dark spaces can feel cramped in photos.

Pay attention to furniture placement and flow. Arrange furniture to highlight the room’s size and purpose. Remove oversized or unnecessary pieces that block walkways or crowd the space. The goal is to create clean lines and a sense of openness in every room.

Finally, do not forget about curb appeal. The exterior photo is often the first image buyers see. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, clean walkways, and remove clutter from the yard. A welcoming exterior sets the tone for the entire listing.

Thoughtful preparation helps professional photography showcase your home’s best features, attract more online interest, and increase the chances of a quicker sale.