How to Prep a Property for Real Estate Photography (Checklist for Sellers and Agents)
When we pull up to a property for a real estate photo or video shoot, we bring all the tools wide-angle lenses, gimbals, drones, professional lighting. But there’s one thing that impacts the final result more than any piece of gear: how well the property is prepped before we walk in.
We understand the chaos. The seller may be packing, cleaning, coordinating showings, and maybe even patching drywall or touching up paint hours before the shoot. As an agent, you’re likely managing ten different priorities at once. But here’s the honest truth a little intentional prep can go a long way.
Clean, uncluttered spaces photograph better. Staged kitchens look warmer and more inviting. Open blinds and small details like fluffed pillows or clear counters can be the difference between a listing that looks fine and one that stands out immediately online.
At C King Media, we believe that great real estate photography is a partnership. Our job is to make every room look its best through composition, lighting, and editing. Your job as the agent or homeowner is to help make sure the space is ready when we arrive.
This blog will walk you through how to do exactly that. Whether you're a real estate agent guiding your client through the prep process or a homeowner getting ready for your big day, you’ll find a clear, easy-to-follow checklist and some personal tips we’ve gathered after photographing hundreds of properties across Virginia and the DMV.
Because at the end of the day, we all have the same goal: get the listing noticed and help the home sell faster. And it starts with showing it in its best light.
Why Prep Matters
Even the best lighting and lenses can’t fix a messy counter or a crowded bookshelf. Professional cameras are designed to pick up detail great for showing off hardwood floors and crown molding, not so great for visible trash bins or cluttered desks.
A well-prepped property:
Feels bigger and brighter
Helps buyers picture themselves in the space
Makes your listing stand out online
Speeds up photo and video editing
The best part? It doesn’t cost anything. Just a little planning.
Room-by-Room Prep Checklist
Here’s what we recommend before any real estate shoot:
Whole Home:
Open all blinds and curtains for natural light
Turn on all lights (replace any burnt-out bulbs)
Hide personal items and valuables
Clear floors of cords, laundry, shoes, and pet items
Remove seasonal or holiday decorations if out of season
Tuck away trash bins
Living Room:
Straighten pillows, blankets, and cushions
Declutter surfaces like coffee tables and shelves
Organize or remove excess décor
Kitchen:
Clear counters of dishes, toasters, paper towels, etc.
Remove refrigerator magnets and notes
Wipe down appliances and surfaces
Bathrooms:
Close toilet lids
Remove personal items from counters and shower
Hang clean towels neatly or remove entirely
Empty trash cans
Bedrooms:
Make all beds neatly
Hide laundry and clutter under beds or in closets
Keep nightstands minimal and tidy
Exterior:
Move cars from the driveway
Sweep walkways and porches
Put away hoses, toys, or yard tools
Mow the lawn and trim hedges if needed
Bonus Tip: Less Is More
When in doubt, clear it out. Empty space helps rooms feel more open. Aim for a clean, neutral look that lets buyers imagine their own belongings in the home.
Let C King Media Do the Rest
Once the home is prepped, we take care of the rest. Our team handles:
Lighting and exposure
Framing and composition
Aerial and drone shots if requested
Next-day delivery (or same-day, if needed)
Want a printable checklist you can share with sellers? Just let us know we’re happy to provide a ready-to-go version branded with your real estate agency.
Ready to Schedule Your Shoot?
Whether you’re prepping a cozy condo or a luxury estate, the right preparation helps your property shine. And that’s exactly what we’re here for.
Contact C King Media to schedule your next real estate shoot