How to Prepare Your Finger Lakes Home for Real Estate Photography.
Getting your home ready before the photographer arrives helps the shoot run smoothly and keeps attention on the property. You don’t need to redecorate every room. Focus on clean surfaces, clear spaces, and the details that could distract in photos.
Start with cleaning and decluttering
Clean windows, mirrors, countertops, and floors. Put away loose cables, laundry baskets, cleaning supplies, and overflowing bins.
Clear walking paths and remove small items that make rooms feel crowded. Store belongings in closets or spaces that won’t be photographed, rather than moving them between rooms during the shoot.
Prepare the kitchen
Clear most items from countertops, leaving only a few intentional accents. Put away dish soap, sponges, drying racks, and small appliances you don’t want featured.
Remove magnets and papers from the refrigerator. Empty the sink and wipe down reflective surfaces.
Prepare bathrooms and bedrooms
In bathrooms, put away toiletries, toothbrushes, bath mats, and cleaning products. Close toilet lids and straighten towels.
In bedrooms, make the beds, smooth bedding, and clear bedside tables. Check under beds for anything visible from the doorway.
Check lighting and window coverings
Replace burned-out bulbs and let your photographer know about lights that don’t work. Open window coverings where appropriate and make sure they operate properly.
Your photographer may adjust lights and blinds to suit each shot, so leave those controls accessible.
Tidy the exterior
Move vehicles away from the driveway and front of the home when practical. Put away bins, hoses, tools, and loose outdoor items.
Straighten patio furniture and clear entrances, porches, and decks. If your property has lake views, outdoor seating, or other distinctive features, mention them before the shoot so they can be included in the plan.
Discuss aerial photography in advance
If you want drone photos, tell your photographer which property features matter most, such as the setting, waterfront, acreage, or outbuildings.
Share any known access restrictions or nearby obstacles. The photographer will need to assess weather, airspace, and site conditions before confirming what aerial coverage is possible.
Confirm the plan before shoot day
Confirm how the photographer will access the property, which spaces should be photographed, and whether anyone will be home. Arrange for pets to be secure and rooms to be ready before the appointment.
Ask how weather-related changes are handled, especially when exterior or aerial photography is part of the booking.
Planning a property shoot?
Skylake Digital offers real estate photography, video, and aerial coverage. Contact us to discuss your property, the features you want to highlight, and the content you need for your listing.