General Prep
(Do this First)
✔️ Clean thoroughly
- Floors vacuumed/mopped
- Surfaces wiped
- Mirrors and windows clean
- Bathrooms spotless
✔️ Declutter all visible areas
- Clear countertops (kitchen & bathrooms)
- Remove loose items from tables and floors
- Tuck away shoes, backpacks, cords, and pet items
✔️ Remove personal items
- Family photos
- Mail, paperwork, calendars
- Religious or political items
✔️ Light staging matters
- Fewer items look better on camera
- Aim for clean, simple, and open spaces
Room-By-Room Checklist
Living Room
- Fluff pillows, straighten furniture
- Hide remotes, cords, and toys
- Turn off TVs and screens
Kitchen
- Clear counters completely (leave minimal décor only)
- Remove dish racks, sponges, soap bottles
- Clean appliances and sinks
- Hide trash cans
Bedrooms
- Make beds neatly (no wrinkles)
- Clear nightstands and dressers
- Remove laundry, hampers, and pet beds
Bathrooms
- Close toilet lids
- Remove toiletries, toothbrushes, razors
- Clean mirrors and shower doors
- Hang fresh, neutral towels
Exterior Prep
Curb appeal counts
- Mow lawn, trim edges
- Remove cars from driveway and street if possible
- Pick up trash cans, hoses, and tools
Porch & Patio
- Straighten outdoor furniture
- Remove toys, grills (if cluttered), and loose items
Pool & Backyard (If Applicable)
- Skim pool and tidy deck
- Arrange seating neatly
- Remove pool toys and cleaning equipment
Lighting & Access
Turn on all interior lights
- Lamps, overhead lights, accent lighting
Replace burned-out bulbs
- Use soft white bulbs where possible
Open all blinds and curtains
- Let in natural light
Pets & People
Pets should be secured
- Crated, gated, or off-property during the shoot
Home should be empty if possible
- This allows us to work efficiently and avoid interruptions
For Video Shoots (IMPORTANT)
- Turn ON all ceiling fans (unless instructed otherwise)
- Silence TVs, music, and smart devices
- Avoid movement in the home during filming
- Remove seasonal or distracting décor if requested
🛑 What NOT To Do 🛑
🚫 Do not start cleaning when we arrive
🚫 Do not follow the photographer/videographer during the shoot
🚫 Do not rearrange rooms last-minute without agent approval
Shoot Day Expectations
- Most shoots take 30–90 minutes, depending on services and size of home.
- We’ll complete interior photos first, then exterior and aerials.
- If a 2D floor plan or Matterport is included, we’ll begin with that scan.
Final Note
The better the home is prepared, the better the final results.
Clean, simple, and bright always wins on camera.
If you have any questions before shoot day, please contact your agent or reach out to Golden Key Visuals directly.
