Tips for preparing your property for a photo shoot

To ensure a shoot goes smoothly and that the best possible photos can be created, I have put together some tips to use prior to my visit.

Interior - General Points

Clutter can make your home appear as if you do not have enough storage space so clear this away where possible.

However beware as there is a fine balance between clutter and making the home look too spartan and unlived-in.

As a general rule:

• Only have things on display that are visually pleasing - think what would appeal to you or put you off if it were you viewing a property

• Open curtains and blinds - some blinds may be left angled or closed for privacy

• Clean windows and floors

• Check that your lamps and lights are working as we sometimes turn these on

• Turn off TVs and computer screens

• Clear piles of old newspapers and magazines

• Contain all pets away from areas to be photographed

• Consider placing some fresh flowers on a worktop, dressing table or sideboard

Interior - Kitchen

• Hide away pet bowls and toys

• Clear the majority of items from counter tops - all food should be stowed away

• Check on the cleanliness of kitchen unit doors and worktops as marks and smears easily show up in photos

• Hide away cleaning materials and cleaning cloths

• Check that all lights and spot lights are working as we will often turn these on in kitchens

• Tidy any open shelving

• Remove photos, ‘stickies’ and magnets from your fridge front and cabinets

Interior - Bedrooms

• A bedroom is a very personal space, please consider carefully what you want left visible

• Make the beds and put clothes away

• Tidy and store away children's toys

• Clean surfaces of clutter - but not of everything - a few nice bottles of perfume or a jewellery rack can look appealing and help turn the feel of the photograph from ‘house’ to ‘home’

• Don’t forget the space under the bed, unless it is covered by a bedspread the camera will be able to see underneath it!

Interior - Dining Room

• Clear away any clutter that has migrated here

• Straighten table and chairs

• Add a centrepiece such as fresh flowers, plant or candles

Interior - Bathrooms

• Like the bedroom, bathrooms often contain highly personal items, so please consider what you are leaving on view. Clear away excess toiletries – Leaving a few good quality products on display can help

• Make sure these rooms are sparkling clean

• Pay special attention to mirrors and shower screens

• Display fresh clean towels, wet towels and flannels are not a good look!

Windows, Blinds & Curtains

• We use high definition photography and dirty or streaky windows have a habit of catching the light and can spoil an otherwise great shot of a room

• Please ensure all blinds are able to be opened and closed including the ability to fully retract any blind

• Please ensure curtains are able to be opened and closed

Exterior

• Tidy the garden including mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs and weeding

• Move vehicles out of sight and off of the driveway

• Move rubbish bins, garden tools, hoses etc. out of sight

• Sweep paths and driveways, terraces and decking

• Consider if you want any children’s toys, trampolines etc. in the shots. If not please remove them

• Arrange garden furniture with lifestyle in mind - think drinks on the terrace, sunbathing round the pool or relaxing in a shady spot