Session Preparation

Get ready for your photoshoot to make sure things go smoothly!

*COVID-19 Update: Effective immediately and for the foreseeable future, our photographers will NOT touch, move, re-arrange or make adjustments to anything in/on the property.

BEFORE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER ARRIVES

  • Ensure ALL repairs are completed, including repairs to the exterior and interior. We cannot shoot around service-men and their equipment.
  • Move vehicles out of the driveway and do not park directly in front of your home.
  • For mutual driveways, arrange with neighbour to remove their vehicle(s), if possible.
  • Take a few minutes to make sure the house is clutter-free and all is in order.
  • Turn on as many lights as you can when the photographer arrives.
  • Arrange for pets to be temporarily removed from the home.

OUTDOORS:

  • Spruce up your garden and lawn; trim shrubs, if necessary.
  • Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture should be in good shape. If the weather is nice and you have a patio umbrella, consider having it up (it looks really inviting).
  • Store garbage and recycling bins in the garage; instead of front or side of house.
  • Mow the lawn; make sure the driveway & entryway are free of clutter (toys, bikes, etc.)
  • Winter – keep the sidewalks & driveway cleared of snow & ice..
  • Move cars out of the driveway.

ALL AREAS:

  • Remove clutter and tidy up the shelves and tabletops.
  • Move excess furniture out of rooms. You want the space clean, open, and clutter-free.
  • Replace burnt out light bulbs and if you can, replace lightbulbs with DAYLIGHT bulbs.
  • Do not over-do-it with decorations; less is more.
  • Clean windows & mirrors
  • Vacuum or wash floors

KITCHEN:

  • Clean off kitchen counters; remove any clutter including dish soap, sponges, scrubs, dish cloths and tea towels.
  • Make sure dirty/clean dishes are out of the sink & put away.
  • Remove pet food and water bowls.
  • Unstrap any baby seats from kitchen chairs and store away highchairs.

BATHROOMS:

  • Put essential items used daily in a small box that can be stored away.
  • Close the toilet lid and empty the garbage.
  • Clean mirrors & glass surfaces.
  • Hang towels neatly from towel bar.
  • Don’t store items in the bathtub, they usually show through the curtain.
  • If you have a glass shower surround, clean the glass and remove ALL items.

BEDROOMS:

  • Put essential items used daily in a small box that can be stored away.
  • Make the bed and place some throw pillows on it.
  • Remove all clothing (from floors, furniture etc.)

OUR PHOTOGRAPHERS WILL NOT:

  • Move furniture
  • Clean or dust
  • Move garbage
  • Pick up/move clutter
  • Assemble furniture
  • Rearrange spaces