CONSIDERATIONS FOR SCHEDULING

Consider the sun.

When does the front of your house get the best sun? What about your favorite time of day for interior skylights? There is no right answer here, only what you prefer the most!

Avoid scheduling on trash day.

Even neighbors' trash cans may be visible...

Avoid scheduling on grass-cutting day.

If you or your community has a regular yard and landscaping schedule, try to schedule for 2-3 days afterward to allow for a trim but natural appearance.

Check in with your neighbors.

If it's appropriate, let your neighbors know about the shoot in advance. They may be willing to move cars out of their driveway, or temporarily remove distracting holiday decorations...

In case of an aerial shoot, letting your neighbors know ahead of time can help avoid privacy and security concerns.

A FEW DAYS BEFORE THE SHOOT

Check your light bulbs.

Changing some bulbs can be a pain to say the least...start now to get ahead of this big task!

Clean all mirrors and windows.

Some windows are nearly impossible to clean without a giant ladder and a good life insurance policy...but do wipe the rest! Take good care of any reflective surfaces, as they will show dirt and streaks easily.

Shovel snow from shadowy areas.

Shoveling snow from shadowy areas 1-2 days ahead of time will ensure those areas are dry for the shoot.

ON THE DAY OF YOUR SHOOT

Lights on, screens off.

Overheads, lamps, under-counters, sink, cabinets, patio, exteriors...turn 'em all on! Please also turn off any screens (computer, tv, smart appliances).

Set the blinds.

Consider whether you want to show off the blinds, or the views through the window.

Fans off, flags down.

Ceiling fans, oscillating fans, outdoor flags, or anything moving should be turned off or removed to prevent seeing any movement in photos.

Take down the sensitive stuff.

You may want to remove or hide family photos, diplomas, any visible names or addresses...the usual stuff.

Less is more.

The less stuff you have on counters, walls, and the floor will help your home to look bigger, brighter, and cleaner. Take some time to de-clutter as much as possible - let homebuyers see more of the house, less of your belongings!

Beds and bed linens.

Remember that our cameras typically sit lower than the human eye, and will see items stored under beds. If possible, tuck them further under the bed, or store items in the closet temporarily.

Try to hide tags on pillows and blankets, and give those pillows a good fluffing!

Turn off lawn sprinklers.

It can look goofy if only half the lawn or a driveway is wet from a sprinkler, so turn them off until after the shoot.

Scoop your poop!

Just a nice thing for your humble photographer over here :)