1. Declutter

The first step in the process is the least fun I’m afraid. It is however one of the most important. You want to make it easy for those viewing your images to imagine themselves living in the space. They can’t do this if there’s too much stuff distracting their attention.

Tidy the following away (and ideally hide in a cupboard!)

Bins, cables, toys, food, washing up, clothes dryers, ironing boards, washing up bowls, drying racks, dog beds and general clutter (anything you don’t really want in the photos!) 

Next, have a general tidy of all rooms. Imagine Kevin McCloud is popping round to film a short sequence for Grand Designs on your home! Not too clinical though, you still want the space to look lived in and natural.

2. Open all curtains and blinds

Light is the most crucial element to any shoot and in particular, property. Open all of your curtains and blinds as much as possible to flood the space with natural light. This will help aid me in producing bright, natural shots and show off your space in its best light. I sometimes make use of lamps and lights but i’ll let you know about that when I visit.

3. Soft furnishings

Straighten up the sofa, give the cushions a good plump, straighten out the bed sheets and pillows. Tidy away towels.

4. Swipe the stuff off of tables and surfaces and find your favourite plant! 

Remove everything from tables. You can leave a nice fruit bowl in the middle or some fresh flowers or even get down to your local plant shop to pick a new favourite (or two!) It really helps add some vibrance to your space and always photographs well.

5. Bathrooms

Bathrooms get a special mention as they are usually the smallest room in the home. Remove of toiletries, bleach bottles, toilet brushes, bins, bath mats etc. It will make for a much better shot! You can leave your favourite perfume or aftershave and a couple of your best looking soap bottles however. Remember it should still look lived in and not too clinical…

6. Outside

Don’t forget to check around outside of the property. It would be great if bins can be hidden from sight but I am more than used to wheeling these out of the way when it comes to that all important front shot so don’t worry too much. 

7. Cars

If you live on a busy street, please try to park in the space directly out front – this can then be moved when we come to take the front shot so that theres an unobstructed view. If you have a driveway, please pop your car(s) a little down the road so we can grab that all important front shot with ease.

7. Highlight your property’s best features

Remember that the shoot is all about showing your home at its best. You know the space better than anyone so if you have something that you really love, just let me know.

9. Pets

Treats at the ready! Not only do I love meeting your fluffy friends but I love to capture them too! It’s worth hiding their usual bed and food bowls away.

10. Running out of time?

If you don’t have chance to sort everything, don’t worry! I am always more than happy to help move a few things around on the day.