As a photographer who has photographed many different luxurious interiors of properties, ranging in size, value and location around Cape Town; I have had a fair share in challenges and 'obstacles' come my way when photographing different houses. All of which can and has hampered the efficiency of my photography shoot negatively. The challenge that I am faced with the most is when the interior living space and externals of a home has not been prepared correctly or at all for a Real Estate Photography Shoot. This led me to creating a document which I now send to my clients; giving them steps and tips to follow in order to prepare the property best for my arrival.
Inside the Home
The home needs to be cleaned and dusted.
De-clutter the home as much as possible. Put away clothing, shoes, towels, toys, etc.
All bathroom counter tops and shelves should be cleared of all personal items such as toothbrushes, skincare products, face clothes, etc.
Each bed in the house should be made and pillows fluffed preferably with your best, matching linen.
Bed side tables should be kept neat and all books and accessories should be packed away.
Try keep the cables leading to appliances neat and tidy. E.g. Next to/around your bed, TV, etc.
Remove any seasonal decorations you may have around your home as it would out date the images.
The kitchen sink should be cleaned and all dishes put away.
Clear all kitchen counter tops of clutter and appliances only leaving 2 or 3 basic appliances.
Remove all body products from the showers and baths in the home.
Hang towels neatly in the bathroom and remove any used towels.
Hide away any trash cans in the home.
Lower all toilet seats and lids in the house.
Any light bulbs that have blown in the house should be replaced.
Outside the Home
Clean up any mess left behind animals.
All gardening equipment should be put away. E.g. hoses, tools, sprinklers, etc.
Remove any covers from pool/hot tub if applicable and ensure it is clean and free from any algae.
Ensure that the grass is cut and the foliage is neatly trimmed.
Any light bulbs that have blown outside needs to be replaced if the shoot occurs late evening.
Any seasonal decorations outside should be removed as it would out date the images.
Before the Photographer arrives
All lighting in and around the home should be turned on. Including bed side lamps, furniture lighting, cabinet lighting, etc.
Any ceiling fans should be turned off.
Unlock and open any security gates the property has.
All blinds, shades and curtains should be opened.
Driveways should be cleared of any vehicles.
For information on what you as the agent/home owner can do in order to prepare for a property photographer to capture your home please feel free to contact us.
