How to Prepare Your Home for Listing Photos: 10 Simple Tips That Make a Big Difference

Professional photography is one of the most important parts of marketing your home. In today's market, most buyers decide whether they want to schedule a showing after seeing your home's photos online.

The goal isn't to make your home look like no one lives there—it's to help buyers imagine themselves living there.

A little preparation before the photographer arrives can make a huge difference in how your home is presented.

Pro Tip: You don't have to do this alone. Before every photo appointment, we'll send you preparation tips, answer questions, and help you prioritize the small improvements that make the biggest impact. Our goal is to make the process feel simple—not overwhelming.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize

Less really is more.

Clear away everyday clutter and pack up items that aren't essential. This helps rooms appear larger, cleaner, and more inviting.

We also recommend removing or minimizing:

• Excess clothing in closets
• Family photos
• Personal collections
• Faith-based décor
• Papers and mail
• Pet items

The goal is to create a space where buyers can picture their own lives unfolding.

2. Let the Light In

Natural light helps rooms feel warm, bright, and welcoming.

Before the photographer arrives:

• Open all blinds and curtains.
• Turn on every overhead light.
• Replace any burnt-out bulbs.
• Make sure light bulbs match in color temperature whenever possible.

Bright spaces almost always photograph better.

3. Clear the Countertops

Kitchen and bathroom counters tend to collect everyday items.

Store away things like:

• Small appliances
• Toothbrushes
• Soap bottles
• Hair products
• Cleaning supplies
• Mail and paperwork

Leave only a few intentional décor pieces to keep the space feeling clean and spacious.

4. Give the Bathrooms a Quick Refresh

Bathrooms don't need to be perfect—they just need to feel fresh.

Before photos:

• Close all toilet lids.
• Pull shower curtains closed (unless your agent recommends otherwise).
• Hang fresh towels.
• Remove toiletries.
• Hide the "obvious" bathroom accessories... yes, we're looking at you, Squatty Potty. 😄

Small details make a surprisingly big difference.

5. Straighten the Little Things

Professional photographers notice everything.

Take a few minutes to:

• Straighten artwork.
• Fluff pillows.
• Smooth bedspreads.
• Align dining chairs.
• Hide visible cords.
• Tidy blankets and rugs.

These finishing touches help your home feel polished.

6. Clear Off the Refrigerator

Magnets, calendars, artwork, and reminders tell the story of your family—but buyers need to imagine their own.

A clean refrigerator front creates a simpler, more refined look.

7. Think Like a Boutique Hotel

One of our favorite pieces of advice is to walk through your home as if you were checking into a high-end boutique hotel.

Would you notice clutter on a shelf?

Would an overflowing pantry catch your eye?

Would that pile of shoes by the front door stand out?

Little details matter because buyers notice them too.

8. Don't Forget the Outside

Your home's exterior is often the very first photo buyers see.

Take a few minutes to:

• Move garbage cans out of sight.
• Sweep porches and patios.
• Park vehicles away from the front of the home if possible.
• Put away hoses and yard tools.
• Remove children's toys from the yard.

Great curb appeal starts with great photos.

9. Give the Photographer Room to Work

Once the photographer arrives, one of the best things you can do is simply step away.

Professional photographers know the best angles, lighting, and composition. Giving them space allows them to work efficiently and capture your home at its best.

If possible, plan to leave the property during the appointment. It's often more comfortable for everyone—including pets.

10. Remember What We're Really Selling

Buyers aren't purchasing your furniture.

They're purchasing a lifestyle.

The photos should help them imagine cooking in the kitchen, relaxing in the living room, entertaining friends on the patio, and making memories throughout the home.

A little preparation helps create that emotional connection.

Final Thoughts

At The Larkin Group, we believe every listing deserves to make a great first impression.

Professional photography is often the first showing your home will ever have, and in many cases, it's the reason a buyer decides to schedule an in-person tour.

We'll guide you through the preparation process, answer any questions along the way, and help make sure your home is ready to shine before it ever hits the market.

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