Photography Preparation Recommendations

INTERIOR

  • Remove valuables you do not want photographed.
  • Turn on all lights. Set dimmers to half power.
  • Replace burned-out light bulbs.
  • Remove floor mats. Leave decorative runners.
  • Remove personal family photos.
  • Hide electrical wires as much as possible.
  • Straighten lamp shades.
  • Don’t over-accessorize. Less is better.
  • Wipe down windows & mirrors- smudges show


WINDOWS

  • Have windows and screens professionally cleaned.
  • Open/raise all window treatments and align symmetrically. 


KITCHEN

  • Declutter and clean kitchen counters, back splash, appliances, faucets and sink.
  • Align faucet forward toward sink.
  • Remove photos, notes and magnets from refrigerator.
  • Clear countertops except for knife block, coffee maker and perhaps toaster.
  • Remove kitchen towels, garbage cans, paper towels, soap dispensers and cleaners.
  • Fresh flowers and a bowl of fruit is a nice addition.
  • Remove sponges, soaps, dishes, drying rack and such from the sink.


BATHROOM

  • Clean tub, sinks, faucets, mirrors, shower and glass doors.
  • Replace shower curtain if old.
  • Remove all items from showers and bath tubs including shampoo bottles, loofahs, squeegee and soaps.
  • Place new clean, fluffy, neatly folded towels on racks.
  • Hang towels to same length.
  • Clear countertops of soap, tissue boxes, toothbrushes, medications and deodorants.
  • Put toilet seats down.
  • Install new, full roll of toilet paper with no descending tissue sheets.
  • Remove floor mats.


DINING ROOM

  • Dust and polish the table tops.
  • Add decorative place settings if available.
  • Feature one centerpiece such as a bouquet of flowers.
  • Straighten chairs and space evenly. 


LIVING ROOM

  • Remove stacks of magazines, papers, mail and TV remotes.
  • Declutter fireplace mantel/hearth, side and coffee tables.
  • Fluff and arrange furniture pillows.
  • Do not light fireplace. I will add fire using Photoshop.
  • Remove family photos.


BEDROOM

  • Make bedding as smooth and lump-free as possible. • Decorate all beds with matching sheets, blankets and pillows.
  • Arrange pillows symmetrically and fluffed equally.
  • If walk-in closets are to be photographed, they should appear neat and organized.
  • Use bedding that covers the entire bed and fits the mattress evenly.
  • Clear nightstands of all personal items. • Remove all clutter from top of dressers.
  • Remove family photos.


PETS

  • Remove food, bedding, toys and water bowls and all signs that a pet lives in the home.
  • Use lint roller on furniture to remove pet hair.


EXTERIOR

  • Cut grass, trim shrubs, sweep or blow-off walkways. • Remove dead foliage and empty planters.
  • Remove cobwebs from eaves and door frames.
  • Cover dirt areas of yard with wood chips.
  • Remove water hoses.
  • Make sure trash and recycling bin are hidden away


PORCH, PATIO AND DECK

  • Sweep or blow-off deck and porch.
  • Arrange patio furniture.
  • Open patio umbrella unless it blocks a view.
  • Pillows and cushions should be fresh, not faded.
  • If hot tub is full and clean and you want the inside photographed, remove cover and place in a remote location such as your garage. I do not remove spa covers. (unless on hinge lift)
  • Remove covers from patio furniture and BBQ Grill.
  • Arrange patio/porch/balcony furniture to look inviting


DRIVEWAY

  • Remove all vehicles from driveway.
  • Blow-off leaves and debris


If photos are for the Rental Market Include...


  • Fresh flowers throughout the home.
  • Bowl of fruit in kitchen.
  • Board games for kids and adults.
  • Modern kitchen appliances such as coffee makers, toaster ovens, tea pots and microwave oven.
  • White robes with embroidered logo of home name.
  • Clean, fluffy towels with embroidered logo in bathrooms.
  • Telescope if you have ocean views.
  • Books and magazines, especially about The Sea Ranch.
  • Courtesy bottles of wine.
  • Vinyl record player with classic genres of music.