How to prepare your home for photos and video:

I have decades of experience in Real Estate Media (even marketing homes up to $180 Million!), and absolutely LOVE hearing that my photos and video played a huge part in getting a seller as much moolah as possible for their home. To ensure I capture your property at its best, I kindly ask you to prepare your home for the photo or video shoot by following these straightforward steps. A well-prepared home helps highlight its features and attracts potential buyers.

Preparing a Home for a Photo or Video Shoot:

1. Lighting. Turn On All Lights and Open Blinds: Please turn on every light in the home, including lamps, overhead fixtures, and under-cabinet lighting. Fully raise all blinds and open curtains to let in natural light, which brightens the space and makes it feel inviting.
   For Twilight/Sunset shoots it is extra important to test your lights a day or more before your shoot to make sure everything is working. Put painters tape over sensors on all exterior lights so they go on well before the normal time.
2. Declutter and Depersonalize: Remove personal items like family photos, awards, and collectibles. Clear countertops in kitchens and bathrooms of appliances, toiletries, and decorations. Less clutter allows buyers to focus on the home’s features. Paper towel rolls and tissue boxes should also be hidden.
3. Clean Thoroughly: Ensure all surfaces, floors, windows, and mirrors are spotless. A clean home looks well-maintained and appealing in photos. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms, as these are key selling points. Clean windows inside and out ensures views show clearly. Do windows a few days in advance so “hidden” smudges can appear during the different natural lighting through the day. For Professional Window Cleaning anywhere in the Boulder/Denver area – I highly recommend MATT ARVESON of “Shine” Boulder. (He also offers pressure washing and gutter cleaning)
4. Tidy Up Furniture and Decor: Arrange furniture to create an open, spacious feel. Remove excess furniture if rooms feel crowded. Straighten pillows, blankets, and bedspreads for a polished look.
5. Hide Pet Items and Trash Bins: Store pet beds, toys, bowls, and litter boxes out of sight. Tuck away trash cans, cleaning supplies, and other utilitarian items to maintain a clean aesthetic.
6. Enhance Curb Appeal: Mow the lawn one or 2 days before your shoot in case of scalping. Trim bushes, and sweep walkways. Remove vehicles from the driveway and hide outdoor trash bins. Park in the garage or down the street so they don’t show in the interior or exterior photos. Consider adding potted plants or flowers near the entrance for a welcoming touch.
7. Prepare for Exterior Shots: Clear patios and decks of extra items like toys or gardening tools. Ensure pools, if applicable, are clean and inviting. Store hoses neatly and remove seasonal decorations.
8. Secure Pets: For safety and to avoid distractions, please arrange for pets to be out of the home or secured in a crate or separate area during the shoot.
9. Can you move items as we go? Simple answer is no. Although I plan a little extra time for every shoot, it’s in your best interest to keep my creativity behind the camera. (and directly translates to more people interested in your home. (and most importantly more $$$$ in your pocket!!)

By taking these steps to prepare your home, you’ll play a very important part in helping me create stunning photos and videos that showcase your home’s full potential. Proper preparing puts pesos in your pocket!

I look forward to meeting you at your shoot!

Charlie Halsell

Owner/Pilot/Operator at
www.BoulderDrone.com