Some information about preparing for property photography, a guide to clients. UK & Overseas

A consultation visit if possible to the property is helpful, as so many factors influence the final result; direction of light, weather, parked vehicles etc

Also to ascertain best time of day to attend and any specialist items that might be required plus a basic shooting plan of the order to photograph the property.

The biggest enemy of any photographer is junk & clutter, we all have it. It’s what makes a house a home.

Untidy items such as dog beds, litter trays, piles of newspapers, wellies etc won’t look great in photographs & definetly won’t help your house sell. Temporary box & move the items out of site.

Exteriors. “Curb appeal” the front exterior is usually the first photo any potential buyers will see so it needs to look spot on. Remove bins & ensure any painting is done and windows are clean.

• Try to keep a nice clear view of the house by blocking with your car then moving for pictures.

• Mow the lawn

• Remove any visible weeds

• Remove any garden matter, leaves, wood or any kind of waste not in a bin.

• Sweep the drive/pavement if there is dust, leaves or litter

• Remove children toys

• Open the curtains/blinds to match on all visible windows

• Clean garden tables and chairs

• Remove bikes

Interiors. “Cosy & functional” Kitchen & Living rooms are really important to get right in pictures. Main shots show the fireplace and a feeling of cosyness. Kitchens need to look functional, spacious and loved.

• Fireplaces or wood burners, even on a warm day light a fire as it is a big selling point.

• Make sure all lights, Chandeliers and table lamps, bedside lamps are working with bulbs and switched on ready for picture.

• Ensure curtains & furniture is clean with cushions and not covered in pet hair.

• Declutter & un personalise the house a little, your children are great but large photos of them or the pets are of no interest to prospective buyer.

• Do your best to minimise any untidy cables from TV’s, games consoles, tv boxes, blurray players Dvds etc.

• Fresh flowers or candles on the tables and in bathrooms even give a nice glow even in daylight.

• Tidy & organise book shelves and tables removing papers or any that looks untidy.

• Hall ways need to be clear for shooting although can be used to move boxed items out of rooms whilst photography is taking place.

• Beds need to be made, with nice pillows and attractive bedding, tidy and pet free.

• Move anything that could fail a great picture ie, junk under bed or on top of wardrobe.

• All lights on including table lamps reading lights.

• Baths, Showers & toilets need to be clean, shower screens, mirrors, splash and smear free.

• Minimise bathroom clutter, clean neutral or colour coordinated towel and minimal soap, shower gel.

• Not easy if you have a young family but try and box toys and tidy. Remember too that some posters might not be to the taste of others.