Home Prep Guide for Real Estate Photography

Simple Steps to get your home ready for listing photos in the Colorado Springs market.

Preparing your home makes a huge difference in how bright, clean, and spacious it appears in photos. Use this guide to help your property look its best during your session with Matthew Mead Photography.

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Quick Home Prep Checklist

  • Declutter countertops, floors, nightstands, and open surfaces

  • Hide all personal items (photos, mail, paperwork, medications)

  • Turn on all interior lights and match bulb color temperatures

  • Remove pet bowls, toys, beds crates, and litter boxes

  • Hide trash cans, laundry baskets and small appliances

  • Park cars away from the front of the home and driveway

  • Clean major surfaces: floors, mirror, windows, stainless steel

  • Tidy or hide cords chargers and visible wires

  • Make all beds and straighten pillows

Whole Home Prep

  • Vacuum, sweep and wipe down surfaces

  • Remove excess furniture and makes rooms feel crowded

  • Hide remote controls, charges, toys and cables

  • Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs

  • Turn off ceiling fans (they blur in the photos)

  • Open blinds and remove or tie back heavy drapes

  • Store valuables and personal items out of sight

  • Keep decor simple and neutral

Exterior & Curb Appeal

  • Mow the lawn and trim overgrown bushes

  • Sweep porches, patios and walkways

  • Shovel snow early in the day to let the sidewalks clear off

  • Remove yard tools, hoses, toys, and season decor

  • Tuck trash bins out of sight

  • Move all vehicles away from the home and driveway

  • Clean the front door and entry area

Living Room - Family Room

  • Clear coffee and side tables

  • Straighten pillows and throws

  • Remove blankets, toys and clutter

  • Hide cables and surge protectors

  • Turn on all lamps

Kitchen

  • Clear countertops completely (leave only 1-2 clean items)

  • Hide sponge, soap, dish racks, and cleaning supplies

  • Remove everything from the refrigerator door (outside)

  • Empty the sink

  • Wipe down stainless steel appliance, counters and cabinet fronts

Bedrooms

  • Make beds with smooth neutral bedding

  • Clear nightstands and dressers

  • Hide chargers, laundry and personal items

  • Store toys or clutter in bins or in closets

  • Open blinds for natural light

Bathrooms

  • Remove all toiletries, razors, toothbrushes and makeup

  • Clear shower shelves completely (if glass or curtain will be open)

  • Hang fresh, clean towels in neutral color

  • Remove bathmats unless they are new and add to the look

  • Wipe down mirrors, glass, and chrome surfaces

Bonus Spaces & Pets

Office/Bonus Room

  • Clear desks and hide paperwork

  • Tidy visible cables

  • Show the space for what it is, (office, gym, guest room, storage etc)

Pets

  • Remove bowls, beds, toys, crates and litter boxes

  • Vacuum pet hair from floors and furniture

  • Secure or remove pets during photo session

What to Do on Photo Day

  • Turn ON all interior lights

  • Turn OFF ceiling fans and TVs

  • Open blinds and curtains

  • Clear counters in kitchen and bathrooms

  • Straighten rugs, chairs, pillows, and bedding

  • Remove cars from driveway and in front of home

  • Make sure all lightbulbs match in color temperature

A clean, consistent setup helps create bright, and inviting images throughout the home.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Answer: Most real estate photo appointments take between 45 and 90 minutes depending on the size of the home and any add-ons like 360° tours or detail shots.

  • Answer: Nope! As long as I have access instructions I can handle the shoot alone if you have somewhere to be.

  • Answer: Cloudy weather is normally fine for real estate photos. If extreme weather affects exterior shots or travel we can adjust or reschedule as needed.

  • Answer: I will move small items if needed (trash can, broom or if something looks out of place), but I cannot move large items or appliances for safety reasons.

Ready to Schedule Your Real Estate Photography Appointment?

Whether you're listing a home in Colorado Springs, Monument, Fountain, Peyton, or the surrounding areas, I’m here to help your property look its best.

Book Now!