How to Prep Your Home for Real Estate Photos
First impressions can make or break a sale—and in real estate, photos are often the first thing potential buyers see. That’s why hiring a skilled Houston real estate photographer is only half the equation. The other half? Making sure your home is picture-perfect before the shoot.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your home so your listing stands out. From curb appeal to last-minute touch-ups, here's what you need to know to get your space ready for the spotlight.
1. Declutter Every Room (Yes, Every One)
Clutter is the enemy of great photos. Buyers want to see clean, open spaces they can imagine themselves living in—not your piles of mail or knick-knacks from last year’s vacation.
Focus on these areas:
Kitchen counters: Remove appliances, spice racks, and dishes.
Bathroom vanities: Tuck away toothbrushes, soaps, and cosmetics.
Living spaces: Minimize decor and remove remote controls, pet toys, or stacks of magazines.
Closets and storage: Yes, people peek in! Make sure they look roomy and organized.
Less stuff = more space in your photos.
2. Deep Clean Like You Mean It
Cameras don’t lie. Dust, smudges, and grime show up more than you'd expect in high-resolution photos.
Make sure to:
Clean windows and mirrors to avoid streaks and reflections.
Polish faucets, handles, and hardware.
Vacuum and mop all floors, especially under furniture.
Dust shelves, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and baseboards.
Think of it as preparing for a hotel photo shoot—your house should feel fresh and spotless.
3. Maximize Light and Brightness
Natural light is your best friend. A good photographer will bring lighting equipment, but bright rooms always look better.
Tips to brighten your home:
Open all blinds and curtains.
Replace any burnt-out bulbs with high-wattage, daylight bulbs.
Turn on every light in the house for the shoot—including lamps and closet lights.
Brighter rooms feel larger and more welcoming in photos.
4. Style It Like a Model Home
Now that your home is clean and clutter-free, it's time to stage. You don’t need to hire a professional stager—but some smart styling can go a long way.
Simple tricks:
Add a bowl of fresh fruit to the kitchen or dining table.
Fold towels neatly in the bathroom.
Fluff pillows and neatly arrange bedding.
Add a touch of greenery with a potted plant or vase of flowers.
You want your home to feel cozy but not personalized. Keep it neutral and universally appealing.
5. Don’t Forget the Outside
Curb appeal matters just as much as the living room. The exterior photo is usually the first image people see online.
What to do:
Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and sweep walkways.
Hide garbage bins, hoses, and lawn tools.
Park cars away from the driveway or street.
Stage outdoor furniture with cushions and perhaps a pitcher of lemonade.
An inviting exterior draws buyers in before they even click the next photo.
Case Study: The 24-Hour Transformation
One seller in the Houston suburbs booked a shoot with Pro Photo Listings on short notice. With just 24 hours to prepare, they tackled clutter, gave the home a deep clean, opened every blind, and staged the living spaces with minimal, neutral decor. The results? Their listing photos looked like they belonged in a magazine—and the home went under contract in just three days.
Final Thoughts
A successful real estate photo shoot starts well before the photographer arrives. Preparation is everything. By decluttering, cleaning, staging, and paying attention to lighting, you help your Houston real estate photographer capture your home in its best light.
If you want listing photos that truly sell, consider working with a team like Pro Photo Listings—known for their professional Houston photography services and attention to detail. But remember, even the best camera can't fix a messy room. A little effort goes a long way.
Ready to make your listing stand out? Start prepping today—and when it’s time to book your shoot, contact a real estate photography team that knows how to capture homes at their best.
