<h1>How to Prepare Your Property for Photography: A Complete Checklist</h1>
<p>Professional photography can increase your sale price by 5-15%. But even the best photographer cannot fix a poorly prepared property. This checklist ensures you get maximum value from your shoot.</p>
<p>Most agents and vendors underestimate preparation. They book a photographer, then scramble for two hours before the shoot trying to clean. This approach costs you money in three ways:</p>
<p>**1. The photographer waits** - You pay for their time even when they cannot shoot
**2. Rescheduling fees** - Many photographers charge 50-100% for cancellations within 24 hours
**3. Poor results** - A rushed shoot produces mediocre images that sit on the market longer</p>
<p>Proper preparation takes 2-3 days. Start early.</p>
<p>- Mow lawns and trim edges
Remove dead plants and weeds from garden bedsPressure wash driveways, paths, and exterior wallsClean windows inside and outsideTouch up paint on fences and gates</p><p>- Hide bins, garden hoses, and tools
Move cars from the drivewaySweep entrance areasTurn on exterior lights (for twilight shoots)Put away outdoor furniture cushions if weathered</p><p>- Open all blinds and curtains
Remove vehicles from the property entirelyCheck for spider webs on exterior lights and eavesEnsure pets are contained away from the property</p><p>**Remove:**
Personal photographs and memorabiliaExcessive decorations and knick-knacksRemote controls and cablesPet beds and toysShoes and coats near entrances</p><p>**Add:**
Fresh flowers or simple plant arrangementsFluffed cushions and throwsOpen coffee table books (1-2 max)</p><p>**Clear completely:**
Toasters, kettles, and appliances from benchtopsDish racks and cleaning suppliesMagnets and papers from the refrigeratorTrash bins (hide them)</p><p>**Set the scene:**
Fruit bowl with fresh produceOne or two high-end cooking items (wooden cutting board, quality knife block)Fresh tea towels</p><p>**Beds:**
Use white or neutral linen if possibleIron sheets and pillowcasesFluff pillows and arrange neatlyFold throws at the foot of the bed</p><p>**Remove:**
Clothes from chairs and floorsItems under beds (visible in wide shots)Personal items from bedside tablesExcessive cushions</p><p>**Clear all surfaces:**
Toiletries and cosmeticsToothbrushes and cupsTowels (replace with fresh, matching sets)Toilet brush and bins</p><p>**Add:**
White towels, neatly foldedOne small plant or candleFresh soap</p><p>Even if not photographed prominently, garage doors appear in exterior shots. Ensure:
Doors are clean and functionalNo oil stains on the drivewayGarage interior is tidy if the door will be open</p><p>- Clean the pool thoroughly
Remove pool cleaning equipmentArrange outdoor furniture symmetricallyTurn on pool lights for evening shoots</p><p>Built-in wardrobes and storage are selling features. Empty them by 50% to show capacity. A packed wardrobe suggests insufficient storage.</p>
<p>**Spring/Summer:**
Schedule morning shoots before heat affects lightingEnsure air conditioning runs before arrivalHighlight outdoor entertaining areas</p><p>**Autumn/Winter:**
Book midday for best natural lightTurn on heating and lighting earlyEmphasize cosy interior features</p>
